One of the best things about living in La Crosse, Wisconsin, is that even when it gets chilly outside, you can still find plenty of fun. Whether you want to explore the snow-covered landscape or stay toasty and warm indoors, you’ll find an activity that’s right for you. Here are some great ways to have winter fun in La Crosse.
Cross-Country Skiing
The La Crosse area features many popular cross-country skiing trails, including the La Crosse River State Trail. This scenic trail stretches 21.5 miles and connects the Great River State Trail to the Elroy-Sparta State Trail. The trail takes you through prairie remnants, farmlands, and hardwood forests. As you make your way along the trail, keep an eye out for the snowy owls that call the area home.
Another excellent spot for cross-country skiing is the Hixon Forest. The forest’s 10 miles of trails crisscross beautiful wooded bluffs and offer views of the city and the river valley, which look just as stunning in the winter as they do in the summer.
Snowmobiling
With more than 650 miles of interconnected and well-maintained trails, it’s easy to enjoy a day of snowmobiling in the La Crosse area. If you’re new to snowmobiling, consider joining one of the area’s many clubs. Club members help maintain the snowmobile trails and organize group trips. They’ll also share tips about which trails are suitable for beginners and what equipment you should buy.
Winter Farmers Market
While a trip to the farmers market is usually a summer activity, the La Crosse Farmers Market Association gives you the chance to shop locally in the winter by holding an indoor winter market. You’ll find seasonal favorites such as locally produced maple syrup, homemade cookies, and meal kits. Items such as artisan candles, pottery, and bath and beauty boxes will make the perfect gift for winter birthdays and the holidays. Shopping at the Winter Farmers Market is a fun chance to come in from the cold while supporting small businesses.
Sledding
While Wisconsin doesn’t have massive mountain ranges, plenty of hills in the La Crosse area are perfect for sledding. The hills in Deer Wood Park are a popular sledding destination. If you can’t hit the slopes before the sun goes down, head to Van Riper Park. The sledding hills in this park feature lighting, which is perfect for when you’re in the mood for night sledding.
Local Breweries
If you’re not really the outdoors type, hit up one of La Crosse’s excellent breweries. The Pearl Street Brewery’s tasting room is the perfect place to enjoy a pale ale, coffee stout, or hard cider. You’ll feel warm and cozy, thanks to the tasting room’s interior, featuring 100-year-old wooden floors and counters. Another great spot to grab a beer is the 608 Brewing Company. In the brewery’s brick-walled taproom, you can enjoy unique brews such as the Caramel Apple Pops, Hazelnut Coconut Macaron Stout, and the Imperial Blueberry Coconut Crisp.
As you can see, the La Crosse area offers plenty of ways to have some winter fun. No matter which activity you choose, you’re sure to have a great time.
Image by Grand Adventures from Pixabay | CC BY 0
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