As colder days approach, it’s so tempting to curl up next to a crackling fire and sip on some tasty hot cocoa… but this is your sign to get OUTSIDE this winter! From ice skating, to snowshoeing, to ice fishing, we absolutely love Wisconsin winters. Take advantage of the many trails, parks and winter sports going on in Oshkosh.
Get Your 10,000 Steps in on the Wiouwash Trail
The latest trend of achieving 10,000 steps per day is an excellent excuse to spend this winter exploring Oshkosh's various trails. It’s difficult to stay active throughout the winter, but the Wiouwash Trail provides an excellent path perfect for a variety of activities. The flat trail is most commonly used for snowmobiling, cross country skiing, and even snowshoeing throughout the winter months.
The Wiouwash Trail is 41 miles in total running through Winnebago, Outagamie, Waupaca and Shawano counties. The Oshkosh trail is 21.8 miles (from Downtown Oshkosh via Riverwalk to Hortonville) - which totals around 40,000 steps for the average adult! Grab your snowshoes and take a 5 mile hike on a portion of this trail - be sure to make a pit stop at Bare Bones Brewery or Fox River Brewing Company for a well deserved craft beer! Explore the Wiouwash State Trail today!
Take a Stroll on the Riverwalk
Get some steps in and take a winter stroll in downtown Oshkosh along the Riverwalk! Following the edge of the Fox River, the 2 mile paved Riverwalk provides a pleasant walking option with easy access to downtown accommodations, restaurants and shops! Grab a coffee at New Moon on Main St and hit the Riverwalk for a morning stroll. Or bundle up and take an evening stroll on your way to dinner at Beckets!
Winter Fun at Winnebago County Community Park
Cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, snowmobiling, oh my!
Skiing:
Winnebago County Community Park has nearly four miles of groomed cross-country trails. These trails are flat and great for beginners! In addition, be sure to check out the County Parks System many snowshoe trails and snowmobile trails. Learn more here!
Snowmobiling:
Did you know Winnebago County has nearly 200 miles of snowmobile trails? To find out if the trails are open, call the parks department at 920-232-1960 (option #4)! Click here for a trail map as of January 11, 2024.
Sledding:
Thanks to the Sled Shed at Winnebago County Community Park, sleds are available for public use at the park! Use the sleds & put them back when you are done. Find this near the North end of the park - by the open-air shelter & shelter #1 area!
Winter Rentals with Your Boat Club at Hergert's Sportshop
Looking for snowshoe or cross country ski rentals?! Your Boat Club at Hergert's Spotshop has you covered! Rent a pair of showshoes or cross country skis for a 1/2 day, full day, multi-day or one-week! Boot and pole rentals are also available upon request. Check out pricing and learn more here!
Additional Resource - Snowmobile & Cross Country Ski Open/Close Status: http://www.travelwisconsin.com/snow_report.aspx
Stay the night in Oshkosh—click here for overnight options!
