Discover Outdoor Winter Adventures in Illinois
When snow hits, Illinois becomes a playground for the outdoorsy. From serene trails perfect for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing to thrilling downhill activities like skiing, sledding, and snow tubing, there's something for every type of adventurer. Those who want to test themselves against something different should try ice climbing or cast a line for a peaceful day of ice fishing. Illinois has countless ways to enjoy the beauty and thrill of winter in the great outdoors.
Explore Snow-Covered Winter Trails
The Morton Arboretum
Staff groom some, but not all, of the 16 miles of trail weaving through the DuPage County grove—and that’s part of the fun. Cross-country skis or snowshoes, both available for rent at the visitor center between January 15 and March 21, carry guests through the untouched powder and snow-laced trees.
Starved Rock State Park
Bring your own snowshoes, cross country skis, or spikes to visit frozen waterfalls draping over cliffs along the 13-mile Starved Rock trail network. Keep watch for bald eagles, which flock to the area come wintertime (the dam’s churning water keeps the Illinois River thawed and the fish catchable).
Pleasant Valley, Woodstock and Hickory Grove Highlands
Solar-powered lights line the trails in these two McHenry County parks, guiding cross-country skiers on their evening jaunts (trails close at 9 p.m.). Opt for the flatter terrain on Pleasant Valley’s half-mile loop if you’re new to the sport, saving Hickory Grove’s .75-mile path through restored savanna for when you’ve built up endurance.
Nordic Center at Eagle Ridge Resort
Stop by the Nordic Center General Pro Shop to rent a pair of snowshoes before beginning your trek around the 6,800-acre property. To truly get your heart pumping, try the 3.5-mile-long trail filled with rolling hills and enchanting woodlands along the back half of the General golf course.
Take a spin through the Palos Forest Preserve
With more than 40 miles worth of hilly trails, this wooded area in Chicago’s southwest suburbs gives even veteran mountain bikers a challenge when snow falls. Rent a ride from nearby 2 Bici Bicycle Shop.
Downhill Skiing, Snowboarding & Tubing
Skiing or Snowboarding in Galena
Stay at Chestnut Mountain Resort in Galena, a ski-in, ski-out lodge with a sauna, dining, and an arcade. Hit the slopes just steps away, featuring 19 runs, the Midwest’s largest terrain park, and family-friendly zones for all skill levels.
Chestnut Mountain Resort
Tubing down Mount Hoy
Trekking up the trail takes some stamina, but zipping down the two different branches on the 800-foot hill in a $10-per-day rental tube is well worth the exertion. Now through February, weather dependent.
Snow Tubing at Mount HoyThrilling Ice Climbing Adventures
Get Adventurous at Starved Rock Lodge & Conference Center
Stay in the heart of the great outdoors with reservations at Starved Rock Lodge & Conference Center. Choose a room in the lodge or go for a cabin, and then sip hot cocoa at the Veranda with a view of the state park. The accommodation also features a café, lounge, and dining room, which are perfect for unwinding after exploring the local trails. During your visit, tap into your adventurous side, and ice climb the waterfalls in the state park. Climbers must sign in and out of the park office and bring their own equipment, though. If the conditions aren’t right for ice climbing, try cross country skiing in the picnic area, winter hiking, or simply check out the frozen waterfalls.
Don’t let a little chill in the air keep you from venturing to Illinois this winter. You know what they say, “there’s no bad weather, just bad clothing,” so wrap up tight and get ready for a winter wonderland in the “Prairie State.”
Other Unique Winter Activities
Catch a fish in the Dupage Forest Preserve network
You can go ice fishing on most lakes in the forest preserve when surfaces freeze to at least four inches thick. Just make sure you have a fishing license and hand warmers.
Bowl with a frozen turkey at the Winter Carnival Weekend
A strike in a bowling alley? Passé. Instead, knock down pins with unthawed poultry, then check out the snowshoe race, ice carvings, and balloon glow. February 14–17, 2025.