From Hitting the Slopes To Enjoying a Steam: How To Enjoy a Perfect Weekend This Winter in Lake Delton, Wisconsin

When the snow settles over the Wisconsin Dells area and all the water park enthusiasts are ushered indoors, it's time for the outdoor winter adventures to begin. That's right: there's much more to this popular tourist area in the Badger State than water slides, t-shirts, and Tommy Bartlett. For those who stop and look around, it's actually an outdoor mecca with plenty for nature lovers to see and do—and this holds particularly true in the winter. In fact, I'd argue that there's no better spot than Lake Delton to set up base camp for a winter weekend getaway in Wisconsin.

Mirror Lake State Park is just outside of town, and its 18 miles of groomed cross-country ski trails are perfect for whiling away a winter afternoon. Hiking, snowshoeing, and fat biking are other popular winter activities in the park. 

If downhill skiing or snowboarding is more your thing, you're in luck! Christmas Mountain Village and its 16 lift-serviced runs is just minutes away. If you're looking for more of challenge, Cascade Mountain (44 runs) and Devil's Head Resort (27 runs) are both within half an hour of Lake Delton, and the more intimate Whitetail Ridge Ski Area is about 45 minutes west of town at Fort McCoy. All four resorts also offer tubing.

For more of an off-the-beaten-path adventure, head just south of town to Fern Dell Gorge State Natural Area, which is adjacent to Mirror Lake State Park, and explore its wooded, ancient sandstone canyon. Bring AllTrails Plus along with you for offline maps at your fingertips while you're exploring this more remote, ruggedly beautiful natural area.

When you've had your fill of outdoor activity, head back to The Del-Bar Supper Club (reservations strongly recommended) in Lake Delton. Its Prairie-style architecture is a nod to Frank Lloyd Wright's influence in the area, and its classic American cuisine and delicious drinks are pure Wisconsin supper club. A meal at The Del Bar is the perfect cherry to top a glorious Badger State day!

Once you're full and happy, meander back to your charming Airbnb cabin, located just north of town near Lyndon Station, and crawl into its beautiful barrel sauna to sweat out the rest of the evening. Then sit next to the fire pit on the property's deck and enjoy a night of stargazing. Known as the Black Fox Cabin, this Scandinavian-inspired retreat is the embodiment of hygge, offering a warm, inviting sanctuary tucked away in the quiet woods. While the stylish interior—complete with a cozy fireplace and modern amenities—is tempting, the real magic happens outside. Step out into the crisp night air and crawl into the property's beautiful barrel sauna to sweat out the rest of the evening. The embrace of the heat is the perfect antidote to the winter chill, soothing tired muscles after a day outside and melting away every ounce of stress. Afterward, cool down as you sit next to the fire pit on the property's deck and enjoy a night of stargazing.

This two-bedroom, one-bath property can accommodate up to six, but it's also perfect for a weekend with nobody else but your favorite traveling companion. Check out the Black Fox Cabin's Airbnb listing to make your reservations and enjoy your weekend in Lake Delton.

Ready for more adventures in the Badger State? Start off with a visit to Only In Your State’s itinerary planner to jump-start your journeys.