Glide Across the
Parks, Trails, & Preserves

Traverse Some of Wisconsin’s Best Cross Country Ski Trails

Door County’s parks and trails are open year-round, and one of the best ways to experience them is with a pair of skis strapped to your feet. Explore dozens of miles of trails in state parks and public nature preserves, taking in the quiet beauty of Door County’s icy, wintery landscapes.

Please check the Winter Snow Report for updates on trail conditions.

4 Things to Know About
Cross Country Skiing in Door County

1. There Are No BYO Skis Rules Here.
If you don’t have your own equipment, there are several businesses that offer ski rentals by the hour or day. Rental businesses typically charge between $10–30 and provide everything but the warm winter clothing and post-ski hot chocolate.

2. We've Got Plenty of Ski-Friendly Trails.
Every state park (except for the remote Rock Island) offers groomed cross country ski trails for both skate and classic skiing. The Ahnapee State Trail—which goes from Sturgeon Bay to Kewaunee—also allows cross country skiing. Public nature preserves including the Door County Land Trust and Crossroads at Big Creek groom some of their trails for skiing. Check out a local skier’s guide to the best trails and parks in the area.

3. You Can Ski for Free at Crossroads.
Crossroads at Big Creek offers several days throughout the winter ski season where visitors can rent equipment for free and use it on the trails around the preserve. The Friends of Crossroads provides the equipment, hot chocolate, and a warm post-ski fire.

4. Respecting the Trail is Key.
All public ski trails in Door County are groomed by local Friends groups who donate hundreds of hours each winter so everyone can enjoy the great outdoors. To respect the work they put into the trails, be sure to avoid hiking or biking in the groomed section of trails and stay away from dedicated ski trails unless you have a pair strapped to your feet. Learn a little more about what these volunteers do to keep the trails well groomed here.