Follow These Weekend Getaway Ideas for Winter Fun

Whether you’re strapping on a pair of skis or snowshoes or simply strolling through the snow-covered woods, you won’t have a hard time finding winter fun in Rhinelander. Here are a couple of suggestions on how to make the most out of your quick winter getaway to Hodag Country.

Weekend getaway for cross-country skiers

Rhinelander is the perfect destination for a quick cross-country skiing weekend road trip. Our location in northern Wisconsin usually means we have a good amount of snow, and there are plenty of trails to explore both in and out of town. (If you want to add a little elevation to your skiing adventures, Camp 10 Ski Area is close to Rhinelander and offers 15 runs for downhill skiers and snowboarders.)

Day 1

Arrive in Rhinelander and check into your hotel, cabin or resort. If you’re looking for equipment rentals or want to purchase some new gear, head downtown to Mel’s Trading Post, which offers half-day or full-day ski rentals in both classic cross-country and skate ski varieties throughout the snow season. (They’ll even help fit you to the equipment in-store.)

Ease into your skiing adventure at the Rhinelander Community Ski Trails, located just across the street from Rhinelander High School. These trails, operated and maintained by the Northwoods Nordic Ski Club, consist of a small system of short level loops and a groomed track, perfect for new and younger skiers or folks who want to get in a quick ski without a long drive. The Rhinelander Community Ski Trails are groomed for classic and skate skiing and host the city’s annual candlelight ski.

Day 2

For your next excursion, head to the Northwoods Ski Trails located just off Highway 8. The trails, also maintained by the Northwoods Nordic Ski Club, run for more than 9 miles and offer both classic and skate skiing. Loops range in length from half a mile to 3.5 miles. The trails start at Northwood Golf Course but quickly take skiers past the fairways and into some beautiful northern Wisconsin scenery.

If you’re up for a challenge, head to the CAVOC Trails, located off South Shore Drive. This trail system caters to skiers looking for a high-energy course—the CAVOC Trails are home to a 5K loop that’s certified for NCAA events and has rolling terrain prized by skiers who participate in the Birkebeiner and the Kortelopet Classic.

Find more information on cross-country skiing in Rhinelander here.

Weekend getaway for snowshoers & winter hikers

If skiing’s not your thing, take a tromp through the woods on a pair of snowshoes (or just in your winter boots if the snow’s not too deep). Here’s a brief weekend itinerary that highlights some more of Rhinelander’s scenic winter trails.

Day 1

Check into a local lodging property to unpack your gear. If you’re hungry, check out one of Rhinelander’s tasty restaurants or local taverns for a fish fry or other Northwoods favorite.

Take a short trek (about 8 miles) south of Rhinelander to find the Enterprise Winter Recreation Trail. This trail is maintained by the Oneida County Department of Forestry and Outdoor Recreation and is open to snowshoeing, cross-country skiing and fatbiking. The trail consists of two different 4-mile loops and is appropriate for beginners. A trail pass is required and can be purchased at the parking area/trailhead located off County Highway G.

Day 2

Up for more snowshoe adventures? Head to Almon County Park, located about 5 miles south of Rhinelander along the shores of Buck Lake. Almon Park—which has a popular swimming beach in the summer—is also home to two hiking and snowshoe trails totaling about 2.25 miles. Oneida County maintains these trails, which pass through a variety of natural habitats along the southern shore of Buck Lake.

Find more information on snowshoeing in Rhinelander here.

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