Northern Wisconsin Winter Discovery
February 18 – 21, 2027
Join the Natural Resources Foundation of Wisconsin and the North Lakeland Discovery Center on this 4-day wintry adventure in Wisconsin’s Northwoods. Search for secretive owls, track wildlife in the snow, and explore spectacular icy waterfalls on this fun-filled expedition. We’ll travel by snowshoe, cross-country ski and foot to witness the magnificent winter landscape and its inhabitants.
This trip is in partnership with North Lakeland Discovery Center.
Cross country ski trail through pine forest by Winman Trails
Trip highlights
- Search for owls by snowshoe. Take a night snowshoe in search of stealthy and elusive owls. Learn about the owl species of the Northwoods and what makes them such unique flyers.
- Experience a winter paradise on cross country skis. Enjoy 13 miles of professionally groomed trails that meander through stunning maple, pine and aspen forests. Trails accommodate skiers of all levels.
- Explore local waterfalls. Travel along the southern Lake Superior shoreline as you learn about local geology. Observe incredible geologic features, rock formations, and ancient bedrock while visiting frozen waterfalls and stunning overlooks.
- Learn to track local wildlife. If you’ve ever wondered about how critters survive in the wild Wisconsin winters, this hands-on workshop will answer all your questions! Includes an indoor lesson with outdoor snowshoe excursion up to 1 mile.
- Travel with a small group. The maximum number of travelers is 13. We think the small-group atmosphere allows you to get closer to your guide, each other, and, most importantly, nature.
Northern saw-whet owl by Tom Benson
Activity Level 4: Moderate – Challenging
Most hikes will be 2-3 miles on flat, wide trails. For waterfall viewing, participants should be able to hike up to 5 miles and ascend or descend steep stairs and sloped trails. Physical activities typically last for 3 or more hours at a time.
Accommodations
Five bunk house style cabins that include bathrooms with showers. Housing will be shared by other members of your group. Nearby hotel lodging available at your own expense.
Wintry sunset by North Lakeland Discovery Center
Pricing
The base cost is $990 per person. The price includes bunkhouse accommodations, meals, non-alcoholic beverages with meals, vehicle transportation, snowshoe rental, a full-time guide, and part of your trip cost goes to support the Natural Resources Foundation of Wisconsin. Offsite lodging options are available at your own expense. Cross country ski rental is not included in the price. Participants are encouraged to bring their own or rent them through a local company.
A deposit of $297 per person is required by participants to register and reserve a space on the program. Reservations made less than 30 days prior to departure require full payment.
Cancellation Policy
60 or more days before scheduled date of arrival: 50% of down payment is forfeited.
59-0 days before departure: 100% of down payment is forfeited.
Registration deadline is January 18, 2027.
Pine grosbeak by Eric Preston
Kim Kreitinger
Field Trip Coordinator
(608) 409-3110
Kim.Kreitinger@WisConservation.org
Kim Kreitinger (she/her) supports the Foundation's Field Trip program, plans our domestic and international travel, and helps connect members with the Foundation.
Banner photo by Susanne von Schroeder