Even a simple drive through the park offers spectacular vistas of the soaring bluffs along the frozen lakeshore. In contrast to the busy summer season, one can easily find a niche of quiet and solitude within the park during the winter, says Richard Hesed, visitor information team leader for the 9000-plus acre state park located 2 miles south of Baraboo, and about 30 miles north of Madison. None of the park s hiking trails are maintained or designated for winter hiking, but for those hardy and adventurous people looking for a winter challenge, hiking is allowed on trails that are not groomed for cross-country skiing. Hikers, snowshoers, or those with pets may explore several miles of trails that are not groomed for skiing. The ski trails start in the Steinke Basin meadow, then wind their way through oak, ash, hickory, and maple forests.
Many anglers come to the lake for ice fishing.
Families often bring sleds, toboggans, or inner-tubes to enjoy the sledding hill that starts at the parking lot near the Nature Center, which is closed in winter, and ends in the Quartzite campground. A portion of the family campground is open for use all year round. Several campsites are plowed, and most have electricity. A winter water tap for filling water jugs is provided in the campground and in the headquarters building. Campers may bring their own firewood or purchase it at the Visitor Center.