Top 10 Things to Do in Minocqua in the Winter (From Someone Who Actually Loves It Here)
Okay — I’m going to say something bold.
Winter might actually be the best season in Minocqua. The lakes freeze over, the snow softens everything, downtown slows down just enough, and somehow the whole Northwoods feels more intimate. Quieter. Cozier. Like you’re in on a secret. If you’re planning a winter weekend here, this is exactly what I’d tell my best friend to do.
1. Go Snowmobiling (Even If You’ve Never Done It Before)
You cannot come to Minocqua in the winter and not get out on the trails. We have hundreds of miles of beautifully groomed snowmobile trails weaving through the forest and across frozen lakes. It’s equal parts adrenaline and pure Northwoods magic. Most of our cabins have direct trail access as well!
Don’t have a sled? No problem. Rent one at Adventure North Snowmobile Tours & Rentals, located in the heart of Minocqua. You can go at your own pace or book a guided tour — morning, afternoon, or all day if you’re feeling ambitious.
Pro tip: Plan a stop at a local bar or supper club along the trail. There is nothing better than peeling off your helmet, warming up, and laughing about who almost hit a snowbank.
2. Cross-Country Ski at Minocqua Winter Park
Minocqua Winter Park is one of those places that just feels classic. Perfectly groomed trails. Snow-covered trees. That crisp, quiet winter air. You can rent skis right at the chalet with Dan (he’ll take care of you), or bring your own and glide your way through the forest.
And when you’re done? Go inside, grab something warm, and just sit for a minute. It’s the kind of winter day that makes you sleep really well that night.
If you love knowing the story behind the places you visit, check out our podcast History in the Pines. We sit down for some Northwoods chitchat with board member Ken and ski shop owner Dan to talk about how Minocqua Winter Park came to be. It’s one of those stories that makes you appreciate the trails even more once you’re out there.
3. Snowshoe If You Want Slow and Peaceful
Not every winter activity has to be fast.
Snowshoeing is for the slow mornings. The “let’s just wander” afternoons. The people who want to actually hear the snow crunch under their boots.
Head to Ravens Trail, take a stroll out on the lake or explore the trails at Winter Park. It’s simple, beautiful, and surprisingly grounding.
4. Ice Fish — But Make It an Experience
Ice fishing is Northwoods tradition. But here’s how you elevate it.
Stay in one of our rustic lake homes and literally walk just feet from your front door onto the ice. No packing up the car. No long drive. Just coffee, boots, and you’re out there.
Want to do it big? Book a day with Rodbenders Guide Service. They know these lakes inside and out and make the whole experience easy — whether it’s your first time on the ice or you’re looking to chase something specific.
And this is where it gets fun — book our private chef service and have your catch fried up that night. From ice to table in the same day. It doesn’t get more “this is why we came here” than that.
5. Take a Day Trip to Boulder Junction
Trust me on this one.
Drive over to Boulder Junction, skate the Glide (their gorgeous ice skating ribbon through the trees), and just lean into the winter charm.
Afterward, stop at the brand-new Boulder Junction Brewing Company and warm up with a beer and something hearty. It’s the perfect mix of wholesome and fun.
6. Warm Up at Northern Waters Distillery
Head to Northern Waters Distillery in Minocqua for a tour or just grab a handcrafted cocktail and settle in. It’s warm, inviting, and the perfect way to transition from “outside all day” to “let’s relax.”
7. Sunday Winter Market
If you’re here on a Sunday, go to the Winter Market at the Minocqua Area Visitors Bureau community room.
Local vendors. Fresh baked goods. Handmade finds. It’s low-key and charming — and a great excuse to slow down before heading back home.
8. Sound & Sauna at Unwind
Winter is for restoration.
Unwind hosts sound and sauna sessions on Saturdays throughout the winter, and it’s exactly what your body wants after snowmobiling, skiing, or being out in the cold.
It’s peaceful, warm, and just a little indulgent in the best way.
9. Book a Massage with True Vibrations
If you’re planning a girls’ weekend, couples getaway, or small group retreat — you need to check out True Vibrations in Woodruff, WI.
You can head to her studio, or better yet, have her come to you with mobile massage services. There is something next-level about getting a massage while snow is falling outside your lake home.
It turns a fun weekend into a truly relaxing one.
10. Actually Enjoy Staying In
And here’s the part people underestimate.
Some of the best winter moments here happen back at the house.
Morning coffee overlooking a frozen lake. Kids playing outside while you watch from the kitchen window. Fireplace on. Snow falling. Nowhere you have to be.
We have rustic homes filled with history and nostalgia — the kind that feel like they’ve been part of the Northwoods forever. And we also have beautifully designed new builds with modern kitchens, big windows, and all the comforts you’d want.
We’re rooted in tradition here. But we’re not giving up good coffee setups and cozy couches.
And that’s kind of the magic. Winter in Minocqua isn’t about surviving the cold. It’s about leaning into it. Designing your weekend the way you want it — adventurous, restful, nostalgic, modern… or a little bit of everything.
If I’m Being Honest…
Winter might be the season locals secretly love most.
It’s quieter. Slower. More intentional. So come snowmobile all day. Ice fish outside your front door. Book the chef. Schedule the massage. Skate through the trees. Sip the cocktail. Then come home to a place that feels like it was waiting for you.
That’s how you do winter in the Northwoods.
XX Maggie