No Snow? No Problem: Find Your Adventure In Northern Wisconsin

MADISON, Wis. – The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is encouraging Wisconsinites and out-of-state visitors to take advantage of unusually warm winter temperatures to get outside and explore northern Wisconsin.  

“Some years, we hear people talk about how the long Midwest winters make them feel restless indoors,” said Steve Schmelzer, DNR Parks and Recreation Management Director. “Unusually warm temperatures are giving us the perfect chance to unplug and unwind from the daily hustle and bustle. We invite everyone to take advantage of this weather and shake off their cabin fever by exploring nature.”

Northern Wisconsin’s beautiful natural areas, winding trails and abundant wildlife create countless opportunities for individuals and families to find their adventure outdoors. Warm temperatures mean even more access to opportunities that are usually unavailable during the winter.

For a day trip or a weekend getaway, northern Wisconsin is full of adventure. Hike along trails, visit state parks and natural areas or catch a meal on a local lake – there’s tons to do. After a busy day out, visitors can take their pick of great restaurants and supper clubs to share stories and warm up with good food and northern hospitality.

For those looking to make the most out of unseasonably high temperatures, the DNR has put together the following outdoor recreation recommendations.

Explore Wisconsin’s Waterfalls

Fascinated by cascading falls and raging waters? Northern Wisconsin is home to most of the state's waterfalls and rapids. Check out Travel Wisconsin’s 6 Top Spots For Wisconsin Waterfalls In Northern Wisconsin or embark on a self-guided tour in the state’s “waterfall capital” with the Marinette County Waterfall Tour.

Gaze At The Stars

Northern Wisconsin’s skies have minimal light pollution, making it the perfect place to see the stars. This is especially true in winter when low moisture levels create high visibility.

Newport State Park has been named an official International Dark Sky Place by the International Dark-Sky Association. There isn’t a better place in Wisconsin to see not just stars but the bright glow of other planets and the dazzling colors of the Milky Way.

Reel In Memories

Even though ice fishing conditions have been less than ideal this year, anglers can still land the fish of a lifetime. Many anglers still report success through the ice in northern Wisconsin. If you plan to go out on the ice, remember no ice is safe ice. Review the safety tips on the DNR's Ice Safety webpage to prepare for changing conditions.

In areas with no snow, anglers are also finding opportunities to cast from shore, take a boat out to catch a meal of panfish or walleye or walk the banks and riverbeds of inland streams for early catch-and-release trout season. Check out the DNR’s Fishing Regulations webpage for information on seasons, open waters and bag limits.

Explore The Great Wisconsin Birding & Nature Trail

Looking to find and observe our fascinating feathered friends in northern Wisconsin? This is your chance! Miles of Lake Superior coast, thick forests, thawing marshes and thousands of inland lakes make northern Wisconsin a birding paradise. Learn more about the many species that call the Northwoods home and the best places to go birding in the Great Wisconsin Birding & Nature Trail: Lake Superior Northwoods Region guide. 

Explore State Parks, Trails And Natural Areas

Some of the best hiking and biking trails in Wisconsin are usually buried in snow in February. A lack of snow means hikers can take advantage of these “hidden routes” through the forests, hills and plains of state parks and natural areas. Bikers can get out for fat-tire biking, and animal lovers can stroll through the woods and spot plenty of active wildlife. In other words, this is the perfect time to plan an adventure at one of Wisconsin’s beautiful state parks, trails or natural areas.

For anyone looking for some company when they venture out, the DNR offers guided hikes, wildlife education, recreation opportunities and more sponsored events throughout the state. Learn more about these upcoming events on the DNR’s Event Calendar.