Winter Recreation
Potawatomi State Park
Cross-country skiing
The park has four groomed cross-country ski trails totaling about 8.5 miles. The Blue, Black and Red trails are groomed for both classic and skate skiing. The Green Trail is groomed for classic skiing only. Parking and restrooms are available at the ski trailhead at the Group Camp. Potawatomi’s ski trails are maintained through the generous support of the Friends of Potawatomi State Park and by dedicated volunteers.
Hiking and snowshoeing
Winter hikers and snowshoers are welcome in most areas of the park, however they must stay off groomed ski trails. Three trails are designated for winter hiking and snowshoeing, including the 0.5-mile Nature Trail, a 1-mile loop at the picnic area on the south shoreline, and a 1-mile section of the Ice Age Trail following the shoreline just north of the campground.
Snowmobiling
Potawatomi has about 8 miles of snowmobile trails in the park, that connect with the Door County snowmobile trail system. Snowmobiles may operate on designated snowmobile trails only, which are marked with orange blazes. Snowmobiles may not be operated on plowed roads, ski trails, the former ski hill, or any other area not designated for snowmobile use. Snowmobile parking is available at the park office, at the campground shelter or picnic lot 2.
The opening and closing of snowmobile trails are at the discretion of each county. Snowmobile trails that cross DNR lands are opened and closed consistent with the surrounding county (or counties). Whenever possible, the opening and closing of snowmobile trails are done on a county-wide basis, however, localized conditions may require localized trail opening and closing. It is the responsibility of the county to provide notification about the status of snowmobile trails. The Travel Wisconsin Snow Conditions Report [exit DNR], and local club and county snowmobile web pages [exit DNR] and telephone hotlines will provide the most current information.
Ice fishing
Potawatomi’s boat landing on Sawyer Harbor is a popular location to access the ice for fishing. The DNR does not monitor ice conditions. Always use caution when venturing out onto the ice. Ice shanties may not be left on park property overnight.