While every season is magical in Galena Country, the abundance of winter activities in Galena, Illinois, makes this season bright.  Whether you are looking for an active adventure,  just relaxing in nature’s beauty, or shopping for that special something, we have you covered. 

Chestnut Mountain Resort

The Granddaddy of winter activities in Galena, Chestnut Mountain Resort, offers 19 downhill runs for skiing and Snowboarding. Rentals of skis and snowboards are available. Make a day of it by enjoying their restaurants and lodge.

Eagle Ridge Resort Nordic Center

Part of the larger Eagle Ridge Resort, and just a short drive from Hawk Valley Retreat,  the Nordic Center is located in the Highlands Restaurant Complex.   The Nordic Center offers cross-country skiing on 7 miles of groomed trails, ice skating,  snowshoeing trails, and sledding down the 10th hole of the General Golf course. Equipment rental is available. 

Winter Bald Eagle Viewing

Illinois is home to the second largest population of wintering Bald Eagles, behind only Alaska.  And Galena, along the Mississippi River, is a great place to watch these majestic raptors between December and March.  For a list of recommended viewing locations, check out the Great Rivers Country, Eagle Watching Sites.  

Warm yourself with a local Spirit

If sitting back and watching the snowfall is more your idea of a winter activity, Galena offers some great places to do that. Blaum Brothers Distillery offers tours and a great place to sit and sip their wares.  Galena Cellars and Massbach Ridge Winery both offer downtown Galena tasting rooms.  Galena Brewing Company has a full menu in addition to their own brews. If bubbles are more your thing, Champagne on Main has a wide variety of by the glass and bottle options. 

For a full list of winter activities and events in Galena Country, go to VisitGalena.

Hawk Valley Retreat has your winter covered.

When you stay at Hawk Valley Retreat and Cottages, a nature lover’s bed and breakfast, you don’t have to leave our property for fun-filled winter activities.  With a mile of marked trails, you can get your exercise while experiencing all that winter has to offer.  Borrow our snowshoes to make it even more of an adventure.  All of our cottages offer fireplaces and whirlpool tubs to warm up and relax after a day of exploring.  After a day of winter activities in Galena, consider an add-on like a couples massage. Or, make the day even better by ordering one of our slow-cooker meals like lemon chicken and potatoes or our “loaf and ladle” with chili or chicken dumpling soup.  Check out our availability and book your winter getaway today.