November 12, 2026
It looks like Mother Nature is reminding us that winter isn’t too far away!
Snowflakes made an appearance across Price County today, November 12, giving us another glimpse of what’s to come as Wisconsin’s Northwoods transitions from fall into winter.
While we aren’t quite ready to trade every fall activity for snowshoes and snowmobiles just yet, the changing weather is a reminder that another beautiful Northwoods winter is right around the corner.
And there’s still plenty to see and do before the snow really starts piling up!
When Does Winter Actually Begin?
Here’s an interesting fact: There are actually two different dates used to mark the beginning of winter.
Meteorological winter begins December 1. Meteorologists divide the year into four three-month seasons based on annual temperature patterns. That makes December, January, and February the winter months.
Astronomical winter begins December 21 in 2026. This is the winter solstice, the shortest day of the year in terms of daylight in the Northern Hemisphere.
Of course, anyone who has spent time in northern Wisconsin knows that winter weather doesn’t necessarily wait for the calendar!
Snow can arrive well before December, and our Northwoods landscape can change dramatically in just a few days.
The first snowfall doesn’t always mean winter is here to stay, either. Early snow can melt away, leaving us with a few more opportunities to enjoy late fall before consistent winter conditions arrive.
There’s Still Time for Late Fall Adventures
Even with snowflakes in the forecast, November can be a wonderful time to explore Price County.
The colorful leaves may be gone, but our forests, lakes, and winding backroads offer a quieter kind of beauty this time of year.
Take a late fall hike. With the leaves off the trees, it’s easier to spot wildlife, see farther through the forest, and enjoy views that are hidden during the summer months.
Consider exploring Timm’s Hill County Park near Ogema, home to Wisconsin’s highest natural point at 1,951.5 feet above sea level. Winter access is different from summer access, so be sure to plan ahead.
Explore Timm’s Hill County Park
Enjoy a scenic drive. Sometimes the best way to enjoy Price County is to take the long way home. Travel the backroads between Phillips, Park Falls, Prentice, Ogema, Fifield, Catawba, and Kennan to see the changing landscape.
Get out on the trails. Some ATV and UTV trail systems remain open into November or beyond, depending on the trail and seasonal regulations. Check current closures and conditions before heading out.
View Price County ATV/UTV Trail Information
Visit our local communities. Cooler weather is a great excuse to explore a shop you’ve never visited, grab a warm drink, or enjoy a meal at one of our locally owned restaurants.
Deer Hunting Season Is Almost Here!
For many families in Price County, November means one thing: deer season.
Wisconsin’s traditional nine-day gun deer hunting season begins Saturday, November 21, and runs through Sunday, November 29, 2026.
Deer hunting is more than an outdoor activity for many Northwoods families. It’s a tradition that brings generations together, fills local hunting camps, and welcomes visitors back to the area year after year.
Whether you’re heading into the woods, gathering at deer camp, or simply spending time outdoors, remember to practice hunting safety and wear blaze orange or fluorescent pink when appropriate.
2026 Wisconsin DNR Hunting Seasons and Regulations
Winter Recreation Is Just Around the Corner
It won’t be long before Price County’s outdoor adventures begin looking a little different.
Once enough snow arrives and trails officially open, visitors can look forward to some of the activities that make winter in the Northwoods so special.
Snowmobiling: Price County boasts approximately 500 miles of snowmobile trails connecting communities, forests, and local businesses. Our local snowmobile clubs and volunteers put countless hours into maintaining these trails each winter.
Cross-country skiing and snowshoeing: From peaceful forest trails to groomed ski routes, winter provides a completely different way to experience our Northwoods scenery.
Ice fishing: With hundreds of lakes throughout the county, ice fishing is a favorite winter tradition for residents and visitors alike. Always check ice conditions before venturing out, as early-season ice can be especially unpredictable.
Winter hiking and photography: A fresh coating of snow can transform even a familiar trail into something new. Snow-covered evergreens, frozen shorelines, and quiet forests create plenty of opportunities for a peaceful afternoon outdoors.
Remember, today’s snowfall doesn’t mean winter trails or lakes are ready for use. Snowmobile trails must be officially opened, and ice conditions need to be checked carefully before heading out.
Explore Winter Activities in Wisconsin
Holiday Events Are Coming to Price County!
As the weather gets colder, our communities are getting ready for another busy holiday season!
From holiday markets and craft fairs to Christmas parades and tree lightings, November and December bring plenty of opportunities to get out, shop local, and celebrate with friends and family.
Some upcoming highlights include:
- November 25: Thanksgiving Eve Comedy Show in Phillips, featuring comedian Marc Price at Cinema North.
- November 28: Deck the Halls holiday celebration in Park Falls.
- December 5: Phillips Christmas Parade at 5 PM, followed immediately by the community Christmas tree lighting on the Price County Courthouse lawn.
And those are just a few of the activities happening around the county!
Explore the Enjoy Price County Events Calendar
A New Season, Another Reason to Explore
One of the best things about living in or visiting Price County is experiencing all four seasons.
Just a few weeks ago, our forests were filled with fall colors. Now, the snowflakes are giving us a preview of the winter scenery ahead.
Whether you’re squeezing in one last fall hike, preparing for deer season, shopping in our local communities, or getting excited for snowmobile season, there’s always something to look forward to in Wisconsin’s Northwoods.
And while we wait to see how much snow Mother Nature has planned for us this year, we’d love to hear from you!
Did you catch today’s snowfall? Have a favorite memory of an early Northwoods snowstorm?
Share your photos and stories with Enjoy Price County on Facebook!
Find Your Adventure in Price County!
No matter the season, there’s always something to discover in Price County, Wisconsin! Whether you’re exploring our scenic trails, enjoying a peaceful day on the lake, hitting the snowmobile trails, or trying to catch the biggest fish in Price County, there’s an adventure waiting for everyone.
From Phillips and Park Falls to Prentice, Ogema, Fifield, Catawba, Kennan, and beyond, every corner of Price County offers another reason to explore Wisconsin’s Northwoods.
Come see for yourself what Price County has to offer, make some memories, and start planning your next adventure with Enjoy Price County!
Small Towns. Big Adventures. All Seasons.