2026 is here and now is a great time to plan your Galena skiing vacation! We’ve popular ski resorts to visit, fun seasonal events to attend, the Illinois Special Olympics Winter Games, and more!

Winter is a wonderful time to visit Galena, IL. The cool air and white blanket of snow makes the world crisp, beautiful, and new again. Bald eagles can be seen overwintering along the Mississippi River between December and March. Beyond the wonders of nature, Galena also offers excellent shopping, dining, entertainment, and a variety of popular outdoor winter activities and events.

Skiing Galena

Those looking to get out into the great outdoors this winter will find plenty of options in Galena. From skiing and snowboarding to sledding, skating, and snowshoeing, there’s no end to the fun you can have.

Chestnut Mountain Resort, Illinois largest ski resort, offers downhill skiing and snowboarding just a half hour from Hawk Valley Retreat. The resort includes gentle beginner trails, challenging runs, gear rentals, lodge, and restaurant.

Snowshoers, ice-skaters, and sledders will want to head to Eagle Ridge Nordic Center. This popular winter destination is less than 15 minutes from Hawk Valley Retreat, offering gear rentals and good eats at their Clubhouse Grill.

Of course, guests of Hawk Valley Retreat don’t have to go anywhere to snowshoe Galena. Our 10-acre farm includes trials you can  hike or snowshoe for wildlife and expansive views. Better yet, a chilly hike is an excellent excuse for enjoying your cottage’s whirlpool tub or fireplace. Wonderful!

Galena Winter Events

Special Olympics Illinois Winter Games – Feb 10-12
The Special Olympics Winter Games bring together more than 450 athletes to compete at the championship-level in alpine skiing and showshoeing. Chestnut Mountain Resort hosts the alpine skiing, Eagle Ridge Resort hosts the snowshoeing. The Opening Ceremony and Parade of Athletes take place in downtown Galena.

Winter Carnival at Eagle Ridge – Feb 13-16
Enjoy 4 days of seasonal fun at Eagle Ridge’s annual Winter Carnival. Attractions include ice-skating, snowshoeing, sledding, bonfires, s’mores, hot drinks, ice bar, and more!

Mardi Gras Pub Crawl – Feb 13
Celebrate Mardi Gras with a pub crawl down Galena’s Main St. with a commemorative cup, drink specials, give-aways, and live music by The Wundos!

Chocolate Lovers Stroll – Feb 14
Add some fun to your Valentine’s Day Weekend with sweet treats from local makers along Galena’s historic Main Street. Purchase your ticket for a punch card good for 10 sweet treats, valued at $50+, plus a collectable Galena bag. Delicious fun!

A winter sports getaway, Valentine’s Day, a much needed vacation; whatever your reason for taking a break, Galena and Hawk Valley Retreat are the answer. Book your stay at Hawk Valley Retreat and Cottages today!