Best Bets for a Sleigh Ride

Turn the magic of a horse-drawn sleigh or wagon ride into reality this winter for the family or a special person in your life. The hooves of the beautiful horses will kick up puffs of crisp, white snow as you travel through an enchanted forest.

Dress warm and be sure to bring a camera for nostalgic photo opportunities, including of your close friends and loved ones during this winter adventure. Some of the forest critters, including white-tailed deer and red squirrels, may show up. Looking across the Northwoods landscape, you may want to try one of these places:

Rocking ‘W’ Stables
A staple of Northwoods horse-drawn sleigh and wagon rides for many years, Rocking ‘W’ Stables in Vilas County offers holiday adventures for all. Their three-mile scenic trail winds its way through a forest, with a midway stop to gather around a blazing bonfire and to sip hot chocolate. The rides start mid-December and run through Jan. 1. They accommodate both small and large groups. 1890 Pleasure Island Road, Eagle River. 715-617-6779.

Harrison Hills Sleigh Rides
In Lincoln County is Harrison Hills Sleigh Rides. Enjoy a scenic sleigh ride through Harrison Hills. Each of their sleighs is pulled by a team of two draft horses. Sleighs can accommodate up to 14 people. Bring your family or a group to fill the sleigh; or choose a more intimate option and bring your loved one for a romantic outing. Guests my bring their own refreshments to enjoy in the sleigh. N10063 Hwy. B, Tomahawk. 715-851-0798.

Brandt’s Sleigh & Wagon Rides
Enjoy an old-fashioned sleigh or wagon ride in Langlade County when you hook up with Brandt’s Sleigh & Wagon Rides. The family-owned business specializes in old time family fun, particularly as part of their popular two-hour winter sleigh ride around their family farm. Guests may bring their own food to cook over the open fire after the ride is done. They can accommodate groups as large as 20 people per sleigh.

Western Connection Ranch
Located in Oneida County, Western Connection Ranch offers rides throughout the winter. They have a small sleigh that seats up to 6, or the large sleigh that accommodates 15 visitors. Hot chocolate is available, as is a campfire afterwards. 6899 Co Hwy K, Rhinelander. 715-282-5619.

Palmquist Farm
You’ll marvel at the stately Belgian draft horses pulling your country-style sleigh through the fields and forests in Price County. Rides begin Dec. 1 and end March 1. Refreshments, including hot apple cider, Russian tea or hot chocolate, are available at the Pickaroon, their Northwoods lodge. N5136 River Road, Brantwood, 715-564-2558.

Willow Spring Gardens
From mid-December to the end of February, you can enjoy sleigh rides at Willow Spring Gardens in Marathon County. They take it up a notch by offering a varied menu (breakfast, pizza, tacos, et.) for your ride, or you may bring your own snacks. They stop at a cozy spot in the woods for a campfire, hot refreshments and even an opportunity to build a snowman. 5480 Hillcrest Drive, Wausau, 715-675-1171.