Embrace Winter in Wisconsin with These 5 Unique Sports
Winter in Wisconsin is like nowhere else. Between the bounty of cold-weather activities available, stunning landscapes and beloved trail systems, we’ve got the snowy season covered. This winter, get together with your crew and try your hand at these unique Wisconsin winter sports.
Skijoring
Looking to enjoy the refreshing winter air without leaving your dog at home? Luckily, Scandinavians invented a sport just for this! While skijoring, the skier is connected to a dog via harnesses and a lead line for a faster form of cross-country skiing. Even better, your furry friend can help you power through the trails.
Give it a try at Minocqua Winter Park, Justin Trails B&B Resort in Sparta or Chase’s Point in Superior. Plus, dogs in the snow? Just think of the adorable photos.
Speedskating
Did you know Wisconsin boasts some of the most prestigious speedskating facilities out there? Milwaukee is home to the Pettit National Ice Center, which is the official training facility for the U.S. Olympic team. We’ve had our successes on the Olympic stage, like gold medals for skaters Eric and Beth Heiden, Bonnie Blair and Casey FitzRandolph, but the Pettit isn’t just for those seeking international glory. The 400-meter Olympic Oval is open to the public year-round. Have a friendly race with friends and then explore more of Milwaukee’s winter magic.
Fat Tire Biking
Love biking but wish you could do it all year long? In Wisconsin, we’ve got you covered. Winter fat biking is a sport that gets riders out on snow-covered paths with extra-wide rims and low-pressure tires for fun cruising across the soft winter terrain. If you can ride a bike, you can ride a fat bike, so this is a fun winter sport that everyone in your group can try.
Explore the Wisconsin Snow Report and the Department of Natural Resources to find trails throughout the state designated for fat biking fun. And if you’re really feeling adventurous, check out the Bike Across the Bay event in Washburn, where you can ride your bike across frozen Lake Superior and celebrate at the post-race party with friends.
Ziplining
You don’t have to borrow a drone to get a bird’s eye view of snow-covered canopies and trees. Instead, head to Wisconsin Dells for a pair of ziplining experiences only a cold-weather destination can offer. Vertical Illusions offers a tour that begins at Chimney Rock Park, sending you flying you through Aspen Grove and over Friendship Lake Canyon. You can also snowshoe to the summit if the weather calls for it. BigFoot Zipline Tours is also open year-round and provides spectacular views of Northwoods pines on seven separate lines.
Curling
Get out on the ice in a new way by trying your hand at this unique sport. Curling involves sliding heavy stones across ice towards a target. Wisconsinites have been enjoying the winter weather this way since the 1800s, and with curling clubs throughout the state, it’s easy to find teams facing off on frozen lakes. Check out local clubs in Milwaukee, Madison, Stevens Point and more to find what could be your new favorite winter pasttime.
Keep up-to-date on all things winter weather with the Wisconsin Snow Report, featuring updated ski, snowboard, fat biking, tubing and snowmobile conditions from every corner of the state!
