slide snow ski 1 - Black River Area Chamber of Commerce
slide snow road - Black River Area Chamber of Commerce
slide wildcat trails - Black River Area Chamber of Commerce

Skiing & Winter Sports in Black River Country WI

When winter blankets the Black River Falls area in fresh snow, it transforms into a premier destination for outdoor adventure. Whether you’re carving through groomed trails, trekking quiet forest paths, or enjoying family-friendly tubing hills, Jackson County delivers an authentic Wisconsin winter experience.

Cross-Country Skiing

The Black River State Forest features 22 miles of expertly groomed cross-country ski trails, widely considered among the best in Wisconsin. With terrain ranging from beginner-friendly flats to challenging hills, skiers of all abilities can enjoy scenic forest landscapes and peaceful winter solitude. Don’t miss the annual candlelight ski event, where trails glow under lantern light for a magical evening experience.

For a more rugged outing, Wazee Park offers 11 miles of ungroomed trails just east of Black River Falls, delivering breathtaking views of Lake Wazee—the deepest inland lake in Wisconsin.

Trail Maps

Snowshoeing Adventures

Snowshoeing in the Black River Falls area offers unmatched access to quiet, snow-covered wilderness. Top trails include:

  • Smrekar Trail – 4.8 miles of scenic terrain (Smrekar Road access)

  • Pigeon Creek Nature Trail – 1.5 miles in Millston, ideal for beginners

  • Castle Mound State Campground Trail – A peaceful winter route just outside the city

Outside of groomed ski trails, snowshoeing is permitted throughout the forest—giving you the freedom to explore at your own pace.

Downhill Skiing, Tubing & Sledding

Looking for downhill thrills or family fun? Head to Bruce Mound Winter Sports Area, located just three miles northwest of Hatfield. This local favorite offers:

  • Downhill skiing runs
  • Snow tubing lanes
  • T-Bar lift access
  • A welcoming, family-friendly atmosphere

For a casual outing, Lunda Community Park features a popular sledding hill perfect for kids and families looking for classic winter fun.

Plan Your Winter Getaway

Black River Falls combines natural beauty with accessible outdoor recreation, making it an ideal winter destination for couples, families, and adventure seekers alike. From sunrise trail runs to evening sledding sessions, every day offers a new way to experience winter.

More Winter Trail Opportunities

  • Groomed winter hiking and snowshoeing trails at Lake Wazee – View Map

  • Scenic overlooks and peaceful wooded routes throughout Jackson County

Frequently Asked Questions

The Black River State Forest offers 22 miles of groomed trails, while Wazee Park provides 11 miles of ungroomed scenic routes.

Yes, popular options include Smrekar Trail, Pigeon Creek Nature Trail, and Castle Mound Campground. Snowshoeing is allowed throughout most of the forest.

Yes, Bruce Mound Winter Sports Area in Merrillan offers downhill skiing, tubing, and lift access.

Lunda Community Park has a large sledding hill, and Bruce Mound offers dedicated snow tubing lanes.

Yes, downloadable maps for Black River State Forest and Levis/Trow Mound trails are available on the site.

The Black River State Forest hosts an annual candlelight ski event.