Green Lake is a true winter wonderland. Though our gorgeous lakeside town is lovely in any season, we like to think it is especially magical when covered in a blanket of snow. It can get cold here during the winter months, but that doesn’t keep locals from bundling up and exploring the great outdoors. If you prefer the warmth and comfort of the indoors, Green Lake is also the perfect place to enjoy a craft beer, catch a show, or relax by the warmth of the crackling fireplaces at the Greenway House Bed & Breakfast. Read on for our favorite things to do during the winter in Green Lake, Wisconsin.
Cross Country Skiing & Snowshoeing
There are many excellent trail systems in Green Lake just waiting to be explored on cross country skis or snowshoes. For cross country skiing, you can’t go wrong with the Green Lake Conservancy, a protected natural area adjacent to our town’s beautiful namesake, Green Lake. You’ll also find great trails at the Green Lake Conference Center. Hit the trails at Mecan River Outfitters for 15 miles of well-groomed trails meandering through red pines, hardwoods, and tranquil marshlands. Snowshoeing trails are open at Heidel House Resort, Green Lake Conference Center, and Tuscumbia Golf Course. Cross country skiing and snowshoeing are peaceful, invigorating ways to explore the magnificent winter landscape while getting some great exercise along the way.
Snowmobiling
If you prefer the power and speed of an engine, give snowmobiling a try. Snowmobiling allows you to get off the beaten path and explore rugged areas you couldn’t otherwise reach on skis, snowshoes, or your own two feet. South Central Wisconsin boasts some of the most scenic snowmobiling trails in the entire state, stretching through woods, meadows, marshes, and fields. Click here for more information on trails and the latest weather updates. You can also call 920.294.3220 for a recorded message on the Green Lake County trails.
Ice Skating
Ice skating is the quintessential winter activity. Whether your glide like a champion or struggle to stay on two feet, ice skating is a wonderful choice for a fun family activity or a romantic date with the special someone in your life. When the weather conditions are right, ice skaters and hockey players flock to the rink at the Green Lake Wharf to skate under the beautiful twinkling lights. At Heidel House Resort, you’ll find a gorgeous lakeside rink, complete with a special lane for ice bowling. There is also an ice skating rink at the Village Green in the nearby town of Ripon.
Fat Tire Biking
Bicycling in the snow?! Yes, it’s possible thanks to fat bikes. Fat bikes are bikes with chubby tires that help you easily navigate through snowy or icy conditions. Green Lake has great bicycling trails open all year. Committed cyclists and casual riders alike will delight in the unique experience of riding a bike through the beautiful snow covered landscapes of the region. Try the Winnebago Trail Reserve and Mascoutin Valley Lake Trail for more remote nature rides or Loop the Lake for 27 miles of paved paths along Green Lake.
Stay Indoors
Of course, it can get pretty cold here in Wisconsin during the winter. Sometimes, you just want to stay warm and spend the day inside. Luckily for you, there are many great options for indoor activities as well. Guests love to plan a tour of our many first rate craft breweries, such as Knuth Brewery, Stevens Point Brewery, Port Huron Brewery, and Capital Brewery, to name but a few. Breweries are a cozy place to enjoy a good meal and beer with friends or family. You can also catch a performance at the Thrasher Opera House, where you’ll hear folk, blue grass, country, classical, rock, blues, and more. And of course, the Greenway House Bed & Breakfast is a warm place to come home to at the end of your day. Curl up in front of a warm fireplace with a mug of hot cocoa and book or enjoy a good conversation with your innkeepers and fellow guests in one of our welcoming common spaces. The Greenway House Bed & Breakfast is a always an elegant and inviting sanctuary from the harsh winter cold.
Planning a trip to Green Lake, Wisconsin this winter? Book a stay at the historic Greenway House Bed & Breakfast, where you’ll find traditional elegance without sacrificing the finest modern amenities.