Winter in Washington County Parks

Venture outside and enjoy everything the winter season has to offer at Washington County Parks! Skiing, snowshoeing, hiking, fat-tire biking, and more. Check off everyone on your holiday gift list by purchasing them a Washington County Parks gift card. Fun is sure to be had out in the parks this winter!

Snowshoe Rentals Now Available

Snowshoe rentals are first come, first serve and are now available at the following Park Offices: Lake Elmo Park Reserve, St. Croix Bluffs Regional Park, and Cottage Grove Ravine Regional Park. $10 for adults and $5 for youth for 3-hours.

Washington County Parks Ski Pass

Remember to purchase your Washington County Parks Ski Pass! Washington County grooms ski trails when conditions allow at Big Marine Park Reserve, Cottage Grove Ravine Regional Park, Lake Elmo Park Reserve, Pine Point Regional Park, and St. Croix Bluffs Regional Park. Skiers must purchase a Washington County ski pass online, at a pay station, or at a park office.

Nordic Rocks Ski rentals are also available at Lake Elmo Park Reserve. These introductory level cross country skis come in youth and adult size and are worn over a traditional winter boot. As part of the rental package, adjustable poles are included.

Parks Vehicle Permit Photo Contest

The 2024 Parks Vehicle Permit will feature Big Marine Park Reserve and is now open! Winter photos are highly encouraged, so start snapping some shots of winter scenes around Big Marine.

Parks Merchandise - Perfect for Gift Giving

It’s not too late to find the perfect gift for the outdoor adventurer in your life. From stylish merchandise to a park ski Pass or gift card we make it easy to give the gift of nature this holiday season! Merchandise is available for purchase at Lake Elmo Park Reserve Office, St. Croix Bluffs Regional Park Office, and Cottage Grove Ravine Regional Park Office. Gift cards and ski passes can be purchased at a park office or online.

Pictured:

Baseball Caps - $20
Winter Hats - $20
Tumbler - $20
Parks Patch - $3
Candy Sticks – 2 for $1
Seasonal Ski Pass - $30 (add a lanyard for just $1)
Gift Cards – any denomination. Can be used for programs, camping, permits, merchandise, etc.
Annual Park Permit - $30 (not pictured)

Celebrate Winter with Winter Events

Saturday, December 17 - Winter Solstice

Tour Through the Eyes of Others: Art in Washington County exhibit at the Historic Courthouse from 10 a.m. - Noon. Celebrate Winter Solstice with hands-on crafts. Materials will be provided and this is a family-friendly event.

Saturday, January 14 - Bird Hike

Lake Elmo Park Reserve, Nordic Center, 9 a.m., recurring program, check website for details

Saturday, January 21 - Winter Market in the Ravine

Come to the new Ravine Landing building to browse a curated selection of handcrafted items in our Multipurpose Room, warm yourself with a hot drink by the fire, try your hand at snow sculpting, and enjoy a hot lunch after taking a stroll in the snowy woods of the Cottage Grove Ravine Regional Park. Free with veh

Friday, January 27 - Winter Constellations

Make the stars your old friends while watching the great celestial show in the skies over Lake Elmo Park Reserve from 6:30 - 8:30 p.m. at the Nordic Center. Get to know constellations like The Big Bear, Orion the Hunter, Gemini the Twins, Taurus the Bull, and some of the great stories behind them. $5 per person, children 6 and under are free. A vehicle permit is required. Register online

Washington County Parks Gift Cards

Looking for a great gift for family and friends? Get them a Washington County Parks gift card! Gift cards can be loaded with any custom amount and used towards camping, vehicle permits, souvenirs, and more. Gift cards can be purchased at park office or online.

Now Hiring

Washington County Parks is hiring for seasonal positions, including: Guest Services Attendants and Outdoor Recreation Instructors. Visit our website to apply.

Support Our Parks

Your generosity helps us enhance natural areas, improve trails and amenities, provide valuable education to youth, and preserve our county's history at the Washington County Historic Courthouse.

Complete a tax-deductible donation form or call 651-430-8370. For more information, please visit our website.

Skier on a winter trail wearing a yellow jacket and black pants