A pair of skis and ski poles standing upright in snow with a small white house and leafless trees in the background under a clear blue sky.

Cross Country Skiing – Hayward, Wisconsin

Glide Through the Heart of a Northwoods Winter

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Person standing on snow-covered frozen lake, holding an ice fishing pole, with a distant tree-lined shoreline under a clear blue sky.
Ski racers competing on a snowy street with crowds watching from sidewalks and storefronts, lined with buildings and snow-covered rooftops.

Few winter experiences capture the serenity and beauty of Northern Wisconsin like cross-country skiing in Hayward. With rolling terrain, immaculate groomed trails, and breathtaking scenery in every direction, the Hayward area is a true haven for skiers of all skill levels. Whether you’re seeking peaceful solitude in the woods or preparing for a world-class race, this is a destination where winter adventure meets quiet natural splendor.

People cross-country skiing on a snowy field under a clear blue sky, with some individuals walking and waving a Norwegian flag in the background.

Home of the Legendary Birkie Trails

Hayward is renowned as the home of the American Birkebeiner, North America’s largest cross-country ski race. The famed Birkie Trail system offers over 100 kilometers of beautifully groomed classic and skate trails, winding through hardwood forests, snow-covered meadows, and gentle ridgelines that showcase the very best of the Northwoods.

These trails are impeccably maintained throughout the winter, providing exceptional conditions for both casual skiers and serious athletes.

Two men in winter clothing and ski gear standing on snowy trail in a snow-covered forest, smiling and holding ski poles.

Scenic Trails for Every Skill Level

Beyond the Birkie, the Hayward Lakes Area is dotted with a variety of trail networks suitable for beginners, families, and those who simply want a peaceful winter outing. Glide beneath snow-laden pines, listen to the soft crunch of skis on fresh corduroy, and take in panoramic views that make every turn feel like a postcard.

No matter which trail you choose, Hayward offers a rare blend of quiet wilderness and easy accessibility.

Snow-covered trees in a winter landscape with a blue sky and scattered clouds.

Stay Near the Trails

Many of our properties are located close to popular cross-country ski areas, making it easy to spend your days on the snow and your evenings relaxing fireside. Enjoy easy access to the trailheads, warm up in the comfort of your cabin or lodge, and wake up ready for another day of exploring the Northwoods.

A Winter Retreat for Mind and Body

Cross-country skiing in Hayward is more than a sport—it’s an escape. It’s the calm stillness of the forest, the sparkle of sun on fresh snow, and the simple joy of moving through nature at your own pace. For many visitors, it becomes a cherished winter tradition.

A person cross-country skiing on snow with trees and a blue sky in the background.
First-person view of a person wearing black ski boots with lime green laces standing on snow with cross-country skis.

Plan Your Ski Getaway

If you’re looking for world-class grooming, peaceful wooded trails, and the magic of a true Northwoods winter, Hayward, WI is the perfect destination. Book one of our nearby properties and experience the beauty of cross-country skiing in its purest form.

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