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Winter Recreation

Kettle Moraine State Forest – Lapham Peak Unit

There are 17 miles of cross-country ski trails at Lapham Peak (including 2.5 miles of lighted trails for night skiing). Lapham Peak also has snow-making equipment, which makes it possible to improve the quality of the snow base and extend the season for skiers. Hikers, pets and snowshoers must stay off of the ski trails when they are snow-covered. A state trail pass is required for skiers 16 years of age and older.

During the winter ski season, there is also a lighted cross-country ski trail for night skiing. Trail lights are on until 9 p.m. Monday through Saturday. There are no trail lights Sunday evenings.

For snow conditions, call the 24-hour trail grooming hotline at 262-646-4421 or see Travel Wisconsin's cross-country ski trail conditions.

Hikers and snowshoers may explore several miles of trails that are not groomed for skiing. The trails in the forest that are open for snowshoeing include the Ice Age Trail and the Prairie Path.

Ski and snowshoe rentals are available at the property. For more information and prices, see the Nordic Specialists website [exit DNR] or call 262-261-3800.

Cross-country skiing trails

Kame Terrace trail

An easy 2-mile trail beginning at the Homestead Hollow parking lot. Open to hikers in the summer and skiers during winter.

Kettle View trail

An intermediate 5.8-mile trail begins at the Evergreen Grove parking lot by the park entrance. Open to hikers in the summer and skiers during winter.

Man-made Snow trail

Starting at the park entrance at the Evergreen Grove parking lot, this 1-mile trail is open to hikers in the summer and skiers during winter.

Meadow trail

An easy 2-mile trail beginning at the Evergreen Grove parking lot by the park entrance. Open to hikers in the summer and skiers during winter.

Moraine Ridge trail

The 7-mile Moraine Ridge Trail is a more advanced ski trail winding through the glacial topography of the forest. The trail starts at the park entrance at the Evergreen Grove parking lot. Open to hikers in the summer and skiers during winter.

Snowshoeing and Hiking trails

Ice Age National Scenic Trail

About 4 miles of the Ice Age National Scenic Trail travels through the property. The Ice Age Trail exits the property on the north at Cushing Park Road and, on the southern end, the Ice Age Trail connects to the Glacial Drumlin State Trail.

Plantation Path trail

This 1.8-mile paved trail is plowed during winter. The trail begins at the Homestead Hollow area and is an interpretive trail through prairie and wooded habitats.

Prairie Trail

The Prairie Path Trail is a 4.8-mile loop. There are also several short connecting trails for those who want a longer trip. The trail is open to horseback riders, off-road bicyclists and snowshoers and hikers.