6 Amazing Snowmobiling Spots in Wisconsin
Snowmobiling is an exhilarating part of Wisconsin winters, and the state offers over 25,000 miles of pristine trails perfect for exploring. There’s even a Snowmobile Hall of Fame located in St. Germain! Read on to discover great spots for the ideal northern Wisconsin snowmobiling experience.
Eagle River Snowmobile Trails
The Location: Officially registered as “The Snowmobile Capital of the World” in 1964, Eagle River has five snowmobile clubs that groom 600 miles of trails. On these stunning snowmobile routes, you’ll weave through Vilas and Oneida counties, zooming through the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest and around its 2,400 lakes.
Must See: Trail #13 passes right by the city’s annual Ice Castle creation, an icy architectural wonder that has changed in design every year since it was first built over 100 years ago. Local firefighters and volunteers put more than 700 hours into cutting nearly 3,000 ice blocks from a nearby lake before constructing the impressive castle.
Three Lakes Snowmobile Trails
The Location: Lit by antique-inspired lamp posts and lined with little gift shops and restaurants, the Three Lakes downtown area is brimming with old-fashioned charm, plus great snowmobile trails nearby.
Must See: Winter fun is always close by. The Northern Lights Snowmobile Club holds overnight rides, on-trail weenie roasts, bonfires and weekly club rides. There’s also the Three Lakes Winery, famous for its delicious cranberry wine.
St. Germain Snowmobile Trails
The Location: You might say St. Germain is in the center of it all for snowmobilers. Head in any direction and there will be snowmobile trails to accommodate both your wanderlust and your need for speed.
Must See: St. Germain’s annual Radar Run started in 2004 as a small event where participants could clock the speed of their snowmobile with a radar gun. Now, it’s a weekend-long event that also features high-speed races, a bikini run, tasty food, gear retailers and music — all raising money for charity.
Minocqua Snowmobile Trails
The Location: One of the most popular snowmobile trails in the Minocqua area is the Hiawatha and Bearskin State Trail that stretches 18 miles through the forests of Oneida County. Traffic is two-way, with several rest spots along the journey. This area also offers more than 1,600 miles of snowmobile trails that traverse 1,300 glacial lakes and 233,000 acres of public forestland.
Must See: Stop at the Rustic Pines Pub, right off the trail, for tasty Friday Fish Fry and a game room the kids are sure to love.
Hurley Snowmobile Trails
The Location: Hurley is known as the snow capital of Wisconsin, with annual snowfall totals known to top 200 inches! Off-trail snowmobile riding is also available on 175,000 acres of public land in the area, making it perfect for adventurous and experienced riders.
Of Special Note: A GPS is required for these exciting trips. Get a copy of the Hurley snowmobile trail map that outlines the acreage with GPS coordinates from the city’s Chamber. And be aware that there’s no cell phone service in the boondocking areas, so you’ll want to travel in a group.
Must See: Along with snowmobiling, this town is known for its mining heritage. In fact, you can snowmobile right up to the site of the world’s deepest iron mine on the Pines and Mines Trails!
Boulder Junction Snowmobile Trails
The Location: Boulder Junction is located in the Lake Superior snow belt, which means lots of snow for snowmobilers. Trail #8 is especially scenic and serene. And when you or the family want a break from the trails, spend some time shopping in this town’s many artsy shops and galleries.
For More Adventure: Experience the beauty of the Northwoods on a fat tire biking adventure. If you're a first-timer or need to rent a bike, Coontail, located in the heart of Boulder Junction, has everything you need.
Ready for refreshing winter fun? Check trail conditions and know before you go with the Wisconsin Snow Report.
