Winter Activities in Polk County
Winter Adventure in Polk County
Winter doesn’t slow down here in Polk County with activities for every pace and preference. Outdoor enthusiasts can explore over 360 miles of groomed snowmobile trails or hit the slopes at Trollhaugen for skiing, snowboarding and tubing. The many state trails and county parks provide the perfect opportunity for a slow snowshoe or peaceful cross-country ski, while the area lakes invite skating and ice fishing all winter long. With its mix of scenic beauty and well-maintained facilities, Polk County is a true winter destination.
Find Outdoor Adventure with the Polk County Recreation Viewer!
The Recreation Viewer is a tool that was created by our friends in the Parks division to help our visitors and residents find and access our many outdoor recreational assets here in Polk County.
- Find An Adventure -
Winter Activity: Downhill Skiing & Snowboarding
Trollhaugen Outdoor Recreation Area in Dressser, is a premier destination for downhill skiing and snowboarding located right here in Polk County. With 24 runs ranging from beginner-friendly slopes to challenging terrain parks, the resort has fun waiting for every skill level.
Winter Activity: Snow Tubing
You can enjoy a winter’s day filled with snow tubing at Trollhaugen Outdoor Recreation Area–a Polk County resort that features multiple tubing lanes perfect for the whole family. Make sure to call ahead to reserve your tube and get ready for a day of fun.
Winter Activity: Ice Skating
Ice skating is a classic Wisconsin winter pastime, and the perfect way to spend an afternoon enjoying the outdoors. Whether you’re out making memories with your family or playing a pick up game with friends, the time enjoyed outdoors is time well spent. Stay up to speed with ice safety regulations if you choose to skate on an area lake by checking in with the WI DNR.
Area Ice Rinks
Please check with rinks for season opener dates and public skating times.
Winter Activity: Ice Fishing
With Polk County’s abundance of frozen lakes teeming with panfish, walleye, and northern, ice fishing is a winter tradition enjoyed by many locals and visitors alike. Local bait shops, ice fishing tournaments, and community events make it easy for both seasoned fishermen and newcomers to enjoy this cold-weather pastime.
Winter Activity: Cross Country Skiing
Polk County offers miles of scenic trails perfect for cross-country skiing, winding through forests, fields, and along frozen lakes. Popular areas like Interstate Park and the Gandy Dancer Trail provide well-groomed routes for both classic and skate skiing, catering to beginners and seasoned skiers alike. With its peaceful winter landscapes and crisp northern air, the county is an inviting destination for anyone looking to enjoy the beauty of the season on skis.
Area XC Trails
Trail Type: Groomed Winter Fat Tire Bike Trails
Prime fat tire biking can be found at Wooly Mountain Bike Trails and Brookside Trails which both provide excellent winter trail systems. Riders typically run tire pressures between 4-8 psi to maximize flotation and traction on packed snow, making it easier to navigate the winding singletrack and open groomed sections. These trails combine the thrill of cold-weather riding and the beauty of Polk County’s winter landscapes, making them a favorite for both local and visiting cyclists.
Trail Type: Snowshoe
Snowshoeing offers a peaceful way to explore the region’s winter beauty at your own pace. Trails along the St. Croix River and among the many county parks lead through quiet forests and open fields, providing stunning views and wildlife-spotting opportunities all winter long.
Area Snowshoe Trails
Stower Seven Lakes — Dresser. WI to Amery, WI >>>
WI Interstate State Park — St. Croix Falls, WI >>>
Somers Lake Recreational Area — Frederic, WI >>>
Coon Lake Trail Area — Frederic, WI >>>
Straight Lake State Park — Luck, WI >>>
Standing Cedars Land Conservancy — Osceola, WI >>>
Trail Type: Snowmobile
Snowmobiling is an invitation to embrace winter’s thrill and beauty all at once. With access to hundreds of miles of well-groomed trails that connect small towns, forests, and frozen lakes across the region, Polk County is the perfect place to start your adventure. Local snowmobile clubs maintain these routes, ensuring smooth rides and scenic adventures through rolling countryside and wooded landscapes. With plenty of trailheads, cozy pit stops, and connections to neighboring counties, it’s a winter pastime that blends excitement, exploration, and community.
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WINTER WEEKENDS
Cozy Cabin Stays
Plan a winter getaway to Polk County WI!
