Step Into Snowshoeing

Garrett Dietz

Garrett Dietz is a public information officer in the DNR’s Office of Communications.

Don't let snow drifts keep you away from your favorite hiking trails this winter. In fact, don’t try to wade through the drifts at all. High-step across the white powder with snowshoes and experience the majesty of Wisconsin in mid-winter unimpeded by the conditions.

Try It Out

If you’ve never snowshoed before, it’s easy to get started.

Many of Wisconsin’s state parks loan snowshoes for individuals to use, and state wildlife areas like Horicon Marsh, Crex Meadows and George W. Mead offer popup “learn to snowshoe” programs and night hikes by moonlight or candlelight during the winter. These are all family-friendly ways to try out a new sport!

One benefit of snowshoeing at state wildlife areas is the freedom to roam off-trail as you please. Most wildlife areas are open to snowshoeing and have dikes, mowed paths and other well-defined routes, but you’re also welcome to blaze a new path and experience winter on your own terms.

Always be aware of open hunting seasons and be mindful of trappers or other recreators using the land.

Snowshoeing is a great way to get out on the trails in winter, and many state properties have equipment loaner programs so you can give it a try.

Narayan Mahon/Travel Wisconsin

Gear Up

Once you try it (and get hooked), you might want to get your own snowshoes. The first step is to make sure the snowshoes keep you stepping above the snow, not sinking through it. Since snowshoes work by dispersing your weight across the snow’s surface, manufacturers provide sizing guides based on weight and snow type.

When selecting snowshoes, remember to add a few extra pounds to account for winter clothes and hiking gear and consider the type of snow (i.e., packed or soft) you’ll usually encounter.

Snowshoes allow you to chart your own course over the snow-covered meadows and underneath the snow-bearing boughs of the state’s seasonal landscape. As you hang up your hiking boots, slip on some snowshoes and prepare to make the most of Wisconsin’s winter.

Learn More

Take the path less traveled and give snowshoeing a try at one of Wisconsin’s state parks, forests or wildlife areas this winter. Organized outings are a great way to start, and you can find them by searching for “snowshoe” on the DNR Events calendar. For parks with snowshoes available, use the “rentals” filter on the DNR's Find a Park tool.