Winter Wonderland in Iowa
Winter Wonderland in Iowa
In Iowa, we’re blessed to get to experience all four seasons. Right now, Iowa undergoes a stunning transformation when snow blankets the ground. Winter in Iowa creates a magical, quiet “winter wonderland,” where adventures await. The state’s extensive network of parks, trails, and lakes, managed by both the Iowa DNR and county conservation boards, provides a surprising wealth of opportunities for exploring the winter at its finest.
Snowshoeing Adventures
Jester Park in Granger, near the Saylorville Lake area, is an ideal destination for snowshoeing. This area has a beautiful mix of woodlands and trails that are perfect for breaking your own path. The park is vast, covering over 1,600 acres, and its Hickory Ridge Trail offers a scenic 1.2-mile out-and-back trail. Snowshoeing here allows you to move off the cross-country ski paths and experience the true solitude of a snow-covered forest. The park’s commitment to winter activities is evidenced by the Jester Park Outdoor Recreation and Wellness Center, which often offers snowshoe rentals, making it easy for beginners to try the sport. It’s a fantastic spot to observe wildlife tracks of deer, fox, and small game too hat are clearly visible in the fresh snow.
Snowshoeing is all about exploration. You can follow marked hiking trails which will take you over some stunning views of the Saylorville Lake.
Cross-Country Skiing
When the snow is deep enough, the trails at George Wyth State Park near Waterloo transform into one of Northern Iowa’s best destinations for snow skiing.
This park is known for grooming its extensive trail system specifically for cross-country skiing. What were once bike paths or hiking trails become well-maintained tracks perfect for cross-country skiing. The trails wind through mature hardwood forests and along lakes and ponds. This is a great way to keep your heart rate up, and enjoy the peaceful outdoors in Iowa. The relatively flat and gently rolling landscape is welcoming for skiers of all skill levels.
Snowmobiling
For those who prefer a faster pace, the Raccoon River Valley Trail (RRVT) offers an outstanding snowmobiling experience in Central Iowa. This nearly 90-mile-long converted railway corridor is one of the state’s longest and most consistent trails for snowmobiling. It expanse across a few different counties and terrain. For the most part, it’s mainly flat, and an easy ride. Additionally, it winds through several towns which gives snowmobilers opportunities for stopping for warm-ups, meals, and fuel along the way.
You’ll pass through different scenery from farmlands, timber and wetlands. The length and connectivity of the trail make it perfect for a day-long adventure or a multi-day trip, depending on what you want to do.
Ice Fishing
When the ice freezes in Iowa, that means Ice fishing is just around the corner. There are several great destinations for ice fishermen. From lakes to ponds, you can find several good spots this January.
One of the best spots is located in the colder, northern part of the state. Big Spirit Lake is particularly famous for its ice fishing opportunities, including yellow perch, walleye, bluegill, and crappie. The sheer size of the lakes means there are countless spots to explore, and you will see whole communities of ice shelters appearing on the frozen lakes. Ice fishing here is often a social event. Anglers set up shanties ranging from simple pop-up tents to elaborate heated structures, drilling holes through the thick ice to fish the waters.
Another notable lake, just northwest of Des Moines, is Big Creek. It’s is a large, deep, and easily accessible central Iowa option. It is a quick trip for those living in the Des Moines area. Ice fishing at Big Creek provides the opportunity to catch a larger variety of fish in a beautiful park setting.
The University of Okoboji
University of Okoboji Winter Games, takes place in Okoboji, Iowa, from January 22nd through the 25th, 2026. This winter festival features a bunch of different activities, including kites, broomball, flag football, and softball. There’s also a bags tournament, chili cook-off and the chocolate classic. You might be interested in either watching or doing the frigid Polar Plunge. There is a lot to do at this event in January.
Embrace the Iowa Outdoors
Iowa’s transformation into a winter wonderland is an experience that is under appreciated. Winter is a time to get outdoors and take in the beauty of the snow. From snowshoeing, to cross-country skiing, to snowmobiling and ice fishing, Iowa has several opportunities for adventure. All that’s required is a warm coat, a sense of adventure, and a willingness to embrace the chill.
By Shannon Rivers
For the Issue of the Iowa Sportsman January 2026, check it out below.
For Industry News in the Cattle and Dairy Industries
