The Milwaukee Mushers and their rescue pups are returning to Winter Break. Last year, we had enough snow to offer free rides to lucky attendees, and we’re hoping for another snowy season. Hop on for a ride, enjoy watching the dogs run, or give some praise and pets to these very good dogs.

Join Lizz from Tootsies Tea for a talk and taste-test sesh that’s all about rethinking tea. She’ll share how different plants can help you through the winter and demonstrate brewing and preparation techniques.

Wheel & Sprocket is rolling in with Fat Tire Bikes. Test drive one and experience the joy of biking in the offseason. You can also bring your own fat bike and enjoy the Orange trail together with a group or at your own pace. Renting a fat tire bike is free, but please bring an ID as collateral.

Discover Kubb, a fun and fast-paced lawn game where players aim to knock over wooden blocks by tossing wooden batons. Kind of like horseshoes meets bowling. Equipment will be on hand, and Kettle Moraine Kubb Club will teach you how, making it easy for anyone to jump in and play.

An all-ages scavenger hunt featuring plaster-cast animal tracks. Find mystery footprints hidden along the trail, and try to guess which animal made them. There will be hints hidden along the way. If snow is in the forecast, it will add an extra layer of challenge to the scavenger hunt.

Johnny Types Ink, a personalized typewriter poetry experience, is coming to the Havenwoods Education Center. Inside the center, Johnny will compose one-of-a-kind poems on the spot, transforming attendees’ words, emotions, and stories into beautifully crafted poetry.

Breaking Trail follows hiker Emily Ford on her journey along Wisconsin’s Ice Age Trail. She became the first woman and person of color to hike the Ice Age Trail in winter. It explores resilience, the kindness of Wisconsin’s community, connection to animals, and access to the outdoors.
Watch the Trailer here.

Good times, cozy hands, and great views happen around the bonfires. You can also roast up marshmallows or serve up s’mores. Gather with new and old friends and stay toasty.

MKE Bento is serving up a special winter menu that’s perfect for chilly days. Their hot, fresh meals are earning rave reviews, including dumplings, rice bowls, hot sandwiches, spicy noodles, and plenty of vegan options.

If we have snow, Havenwoods is offering free snowshoeing for adults and kids! DNR Staff will help you find the perfect fit and share tips to make your adventure a success. This is the perfect way to explore Havenwoods. If no snow, we’ll hike instead!

Ice Age Trail Alliance will bring materials to create an upcycled bird feeder. Winter can feel desolate, like everything is dead or hibernating. A birdfeeder is a great antidote. It’s a little injection of joy and delight when birds and critters stop by your window to grab something to eat.

Watch a demonstration of how handmade winter scarves are created on a loom. Kim Schlomann of Rustic Rose Suri Alpacas raises alpacas and spins their fibers into yarn. Feel alpaca fiber and watch how a project comes together on the loom.

The Ice Age Trail Alliance is knows the joy of a Very Good Stick. They’ll have walking sticks and decorations like colorful yarn and ribbons. Once you’re finished, take them out on the Havenwoods trails to test them out. #sticknation #sticktok

Mike Krueger from the Milwaukee/Waukesha Beekeepers Association will be on hand to share fascinating insights about native bees and how they survive the winter months, as well as honeybees and what beekeepers must do to keep them safe and happy in the cold. He’ll also be giving out honey and propolis samples and will have honey for sale.

Laura of 1207 Wax Works will show off the traditional process of hand-poured beeswax candle-making, including how candle molds are properly wicked, the importance of wick sizing and placement, and walk through the hand-pouring process from start to finish. Attendees will learn about the benefits of beeswax, including its natural properties and clean-burning qualities. Demonstrations will take place every 30 minutes, allowing guests to stop by at any point to observe the process, ask questions, and enjoy a behind-the-scenes look at handcrafted candle making.

We are partnered with Access Ability Wisconsin, a nonprofit dedicated to creating opportunities for individuals with mobility challenges to explore and enjoy the great outdoors with their loved-ones and solo! These chairs can be taken out on the trails at Havenwoods. This is for anyone who has difficulty navigating uneven terrain, snow and ice. You can reserve a spot when you get your event tickets. Questions? Call (608) 886-9388 or email admin@AccessAbilityWI.org

Buena Tierra Run Club is a Latino-influenced run club for all people. Their inclusive community of runners continues running outside (and inside) through the winter. Many of their members are training for marathons or longer runs, but some of them are running for joy or their health. The Buena Tierra Run Club will meet 1 hour ahead of Winter Break’s start time, at 11 am, on the Orange trail trailhead. ¡Corre con nosotros! Everyone is welcome to join in the Group Trail Run.

Join Bird City Milwaukee for a relaxed, welcoming birding walk led by experienced birders who love helping people spot (and identify) more birds whether you’re brand new or you’ve been birding for years. We’ll move at an easy pace, pause often for good looks, and share tips on field marks, songs, and behavior. Expect a friendly, low-pressure vibe with plenty of time for questions, learning, and enjoying the outdoors together.