There’s something magical about cross-country skiing in a national forest surrounded by the beauty and solitude of nature. The Lakewood Cross Country Ski Trails in the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest offer a Wisconsin winter escape like no other – 25 km of marked and groomed trails for skate skiing or classic skiing through changing terrain in the heart of the forest. Five color-coded trails of varying lengths and difficulty provide skiers with an ideal location for a casual ski with friends or a challenging ski to prep for competition. 

Inexperienced skiers can ski beginner loops which are accessed from the two main parking areas. One loop starts at McCauslin Brook Country Club, 17067 Club House Road, Lakewood. The other loop starts at the Old Highway 32 Road trailhead. In all, the Lakewood Cross Country Ski Trail has five trailheads. Expert skiers, such as those training for the American Birkebeiner, can visit Lakewood to experience the most demanding trails in Northeast Wisconsin. Areas with steep hills and challenging curves are marked on the map and signs on the trail. Skiers can choose the trails that fit their skill and interest levels. They can ski around a loop, point-to-point, or out-and-back. Trails are well-marked, with maps posted at the trailheads and trail intersections. The longest trail is the Blue Trail, stretching 20K from McCauslin Brook Country Club to County Road F.