Happy Winter Trails for Silent Sports

For cross-country skiers and snowshoers, there’s nothing quite like connecting with nature on a serene Northwoods trail. Observing undisturbed wildlife in the winter is truly a memorable event for anyone. We wish we could promise you’ll see some woodland creatures on your next outing. But we can’t. However, we can promise you that the Eagle River area will deliver the snow and trails necessary to make any silent sport trail outing an enjoyable voyage this season.

Both cross-country skiing and snowshoeing are low impact sports that help burn calories while soaking in the sights along the trail. Neither one requires much training nor much equipment. It’s great if you’ve got all of your own gear, but if you need skis, snowshoes, poles, or warm gear and accessories, our rental shops have you covered.

The Eagle River area is serious about having fun on the trails. There are trails that can accommodate beginners through advanced cross-country skiers and snowshoers. No matter what trail you’re on, however, make sure you’re respecting the natural areas you’re traversing and the people you come across along the way.

Groomed and Ungroomed Trails

Many of our cross-country ski trails are groomed by volunteers. This makes it easier to glide across the snow. Ungroomed trails can be more challenging with additional obstacles, but many people find these “more natural” stretches more fun.

Groomed trails are packed and leave behind a sink-free layer of easy navigable snow that suit virtually any type of ski. Finding groomed trails can be difficult. Fortunately for you, we’re here to help! Examples of groomed trails include the Nicolet North Trails, Anvil Lake Trails, and Nordmarka Trails.

One of the benefits of ungroomed trails is that skiers can explore more areas off trail easily and tend to be less crowded than groomed trails. They do tend to be more difficult to move through, however, as skiers must form their own trail. Virtually all ski trails can be used by snowshoers, but ungroomed trails are typically more popular for the same freedoms skiers enjoy. Some ungroomed trails include the Ski Hill Trails and Snipe Lake Trails.

Respecting Nature and Fellow Trail-goers

Snow-covered landscapes can be quite breathtaking. No, it’s not just the cold air that can leave you breathless on our trails! Just like during the spring, summer, and fall, it’s important for silent sport enthusiasts to minimize their impact on the environment.

It’s also important to be respectful of others on the trails. We’re all out here for the same reasons. Snowshoers on groomed trails should avoid stepping through the packed snow and yield to cross-country skiers when possible. All trail-goers should be mindful to move out of the way for faster moving traffic, too.

Our trails are meant to be enjoyed and we all need to follow just a few simple rules to make sure everyone can share in the fun.

Skiing, Snowshoeing, and Staying Over

Cross-country skiing and snowshoeing can be a workout. We recommend dedicating a few days in our neck of the woods to try both. Just as there are plenty of trails to explore, there are plenty of affordable options for you to stay overnight.

So don’t forget to layer up, grab some sunglasses and sunscreen on those sunny winter days, and enjoy the silent sport of your choice on our trails this season! Hope to see you soon.