Middleton is expecting a white winter this year and whether it’s cozying up to a fire pit at Stone Horse Green or taking in the sights while snowshoeing at Pheasant Branch Conservancy, there is something for everyone in Middleton.
Cross-country Skiing
From December through March, cross-country ski trails at CXC Outdoor Community Center in Middleton have snow-making abilities for the main trail, and ski passes and rentals are available throughout the season. Enjoy 13 kilometers of groomed trails for cross-country skiing and diagonal striding. The center has also broken ground on a new lodge, which will open in spring 2026.
Fat-tire Biking
The Middleton Bike Park shares a parking lot with the CXC center and many take to the winter trails for fat-tire biking.
Snowshoeing
Explore Pheasant Branch Conservancy by trail — strap on the snowshoes and get some fresh air. In order to protect the revitalized prairie landscape, snowshoeing is only allowed on the trails.
On the Ice
There are several spots in Middleton that have pond ice skating, though only during certain weather conditions, so always check first. Legacy 20 Ice Arena (formerly Capitol Ice) has open skate times with rentals available, also.
Cozy Winter Vibes
In the evening, enjoy a cold pint in the warm Bier Stube at Capital Brewery & Bier Garten, an award-winning local craft brewery that celebrated its 40th anniversary this year. Capital Brewery throws an amazing outdoor winter festival — Bockfest — set for Feb. 28, 2026, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. with live music, food trucks, a “Running of the Blondes,” fish toss, and tapping of the season’s first Blonde Doppelbock and Maibock beers. Tickets go on sale in December.
Get cozy at a fire pit at Longtable Beer Cafe in Downtown Middleton or make smores at the downtown park, Stone Horse Green, and take in evening entertainment. There is also a Light the Green and holiday market set for Nov. 22 at Stone Horse Green.
Check out our winter weekend itinerary online with more ideas!
Home Away from Home
Whether visiting for a weekend getaway or reconnecting with family and friends, Middleton has nine hotels to choose from that are minutes from downtown. Hotels range from extended stay, which have kitchenettes and sometimes a suite or living space; or nightly rate hotels with pools, whirlpools and athletic courts, with many being pet-friendly.
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