Eagle River, WI: The Snowmobile Capital of the World

With over 500 miles of groomed trails, Eagle River offers riders a seamless way to explore the Northwoods. These routes wind through dense aspen and pine forests, cross frozen lakes, and connect welcoming small towns that embrace snowmobilers. Well-marked and maintained, the trail system ensures smooth riding, whether you’re on a short loop or an all-day adventure.

• Vilas and Oneida county trails: These scenic routes wind through the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest, passing through Rhinelander, Sugar Camp, and Eagle River. The Three Lakes - Brule River Trails cover 186 miles of this network.

• The Chain of Lakes: Eagle River is famous for its chain of lakes, and riding across their frozen surfaces is a popular experience. However, always check ice conditions and stay on marked trails.

• Catfish Lake & Eagle Lake trails: These lake trails, marked with orange reflective barrels, offer a unique experience. Riders are advised to stay close to the barrels, as other areas of the lakes may not be safe.

• St. Germain Trails: Located southwest of Eagle River, St. Germain offers over 100 miles of trails that connect to neighboring communities, providing riders with diverse scenic vistas.

• Sno-Eagles Snowmobile Club: This organization has supported the region’s snowmobile culture for over 50 years, maintaining more than 100 miles of trails, and posting up-to-date trail reports on their website.

• Eagle River Chamber of Commerce: The Chamber of Commerce website provides current trail information and conditions for Vilas County.

• Vilas County Map It Trail App: This trail app provides detailed maps of all the trails in Vilas County, including a GPS-style interface and emergency numbering system.

• GTS Groomer App: The Groomer Tracking Systems (GTS) app indicates which trails were groomed in the past 24, 48, and 96 hours, helping you plan your ride.

• Snowtracks.com: This website provides user-generated snowmobile trail reports for various areas throughout the U.S. and Canada, including Eagle River.

Remember to always ride safely and responsibly. Please note: As of this article’s publication*, Trail 13 is closed due to a lost trail easement. The Sno Eagles are actively working on two re-route options for Trail 13 to Three Lakes. Currently, you can access Three Lakes via Trail 17 through Sugar Camp or Trail 10-E to the Ninemile spur.

Here's a helpful trail map, also featuring the re-route details.

Eagle River embraces a classic winter wonderland with average daily highs in the 20s and lows dipping below zero, especially in January. Expect abundant snowfall throughout the season, often accumulating over a foot or more.

Snow conditions determine the official trail opening dates so, before heading out, check local forecasts and trail reports. Here are the average temperatures and precipitation in Eagle River from December through March:

Eagle River’s snowmobile community is built on camaraderie, with riders often stopping to help one another. Whether you're a seasoned rider or new to the sport, you’ll find a welcoming atmosphere both on and off the trails, but always make safety a priority.

Safety tips when riding the Eagle River area snowmobile trails:

• Follow intersection markers: Trail Intersection Number (TIN) signs, posted at intersections and road crossings, can help emergency responders locate you quickly if needed. Take a mental note each time you pass one.

• Stick to lake trail markers: Follow the barrels marking the safest route on lake trails within the Three Lakes - Brule River trail system.

• Wear appropriate gear: Always wear a helmet and dress for the weather. Carry an emergency supply kit, such as extra gas, a shovel, a blanket, food, water, and a compass.

• Stay together: If you're riding in a group, maintain a three-second distance between sleds. Stop often to check that everyone is accounted for, and avoid spreading out too far to prevent leaving someone behind.

Eagle River offers more than just incredible snowmobile trails. There’s cross-country skiing, fat tire biking, ice fishing, local events, and signature dining spots enjoyed by locals and visitors alike.

• World Championship Snowmobile Derby: This legendary race draws riders and fans from across the country every January.

• Women on Snow: This well-known women’s snowmobile club hosts an annual ride for female riders of all experience levels, fostering camaraderie and skill-building on the trails.

• Vintage Snowmobile Derby: A must-see event showcasing classic sleds and vintage racing action.

Trail stops and local eateries in Eagle River aren’t just places to eat—they’re gathering spots where snowmobilers swap stories, warm up, and connect with fellow riders. After a day on the trails, refuel at one of these area favorites:

• Eddie B's White Spruce: A historic restaurant overlooking the Eagle River and known for its comfort food and some of the best smoked ribs in the Northwoods.

• McGregor’s Blink Bonnie Supper Club: A classic northern supper club experience featuring a knotty pine bar, generously cut steaks, and Wisconsin old-fashioneds.

• Toad in the Hole: A fun stop famous for its scratch-made sausage and unique breakfast options like purple ube potato pancakes.

Discover the history of snowmobiling at the Snowmobile Hall of Fame, located just 15 miles west of Eagle River on WI-70 in St. Germain. Marvel at vintage sleds showcasing the evolution of the sport, honor legendary riders who paved the way for today's thrilling machines, and watch exhilarating races such as the annual Ride with the Champs event.

Each year, volunteers spend over 700 hours building Eagle River’s Ice Castle with nearly 3,000 ice blocks cut from a local lake. This tradition, dating back to 1933, remains a must-see winter attraction for visitors and snowmobilers alike. The castle stands until mid-February, depending on weather conditions.

Whether you're a local rider or traveling cross-country with your snowmobiling crew, the right snowmobile coverage options can help give you peace of mind on the trails. If something unfortunate happens, you want to get back to riding as soon as possible.

Dairyland^®, a brand of the Sentry Insurance Group, is committed to keeping you protected while helping you save on snowmobile insurance. Take advantage of our available snowmobile insurance discounts and keep more money in your wallet. Contact us today!