Winter offers new ways to play in the Dane County Park System. There are many activities, from snowshoeing to ice fishing. Even a simple hike is a special experience in the snow.
Our special Dane County Parks Winter Recreation Activity Guide is a handy one-stop brochure that provides details and a map of winter activities in the park system, including which areas offer groomed cross-country ski trails, designated snowshoe trails, ice fishing and lake access, dog exercise areas, sledding, snowmobiling, winter mountain biking, and winter camping.
Winter Recreation Guide Current Trail Conditions
There are several winter activities that do not require a permit. Cross-country skiing and snowshoeing on ungroomed trails or in undesignated areas is allowed at all Dane County Park properties. No permit is required. However, these activities are weather dependent and some parking areas may have limited to no access during certain snow conditions. Snowshoe sites identified in the Winter Recreation Guide (PDF) have designated trails and plowed parking areas. Sledding sites are also identified in the guide.
Please note: snowshoes are not allowed on groomed cross-country ski trails.
Snowshoe and Winter Hiking Guide
Permits are required for the following winter activities:
