If you look at a list of Illinois towns with the highest average snowfall, you’ll see that all of the top 10 are in and around Lake County. That makes this spot on the shore of Lake Michigan the snowiest place in Illinois.

Of the 10 towns that boast the state’s highest average snowfalls, seven are in Lake County. The other three are near the border of McHenry and Lake Counties.
Lake County Forest Preserve District
The area averages 38 to 41 inches of snow every year. Russell leads the state with 41.11 inches of mean annual snowfall. Beach Park and Winthrop Harbor are second and third, respectively.
That makes Lake County a mecca for winter sports in the Land of Lincoln.
Lake County Forest Preserve District
Lake County Forest Preserve District ensures that the county’s top-notch park system is always ready for winter, with miles of groomed cross-country ski trails.
Those looking for a little more speed will find it at the county’s two forest preserve sledding hills.
Lake County Forest Preserve District
They’re located at Lakewood in Wauconda and Old School in Libertyville. Many communities in the county also maintain their own sledding hills. Check with local park boards for information.
Lake County’s many bodies of water make it a destination for ice lovers.
Lake County Forest Preserve District

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When the ice is solid enough, anglers will find plenty of opportunities to drop a line.
Lake County Forest Preserve District
Several rinks and warming houses keep the skaters happy, too.
Lake County Forest Preserve District
The Forest Preserve District also sets aside several miles of trails for winter snowmobile use. So if you like a little more horsepower under your sled, Lake County is the place to be.
Lake County Forest Preserve District
For enjoying the sheer spectacle of winter, few places are better than the dramatic shore of Lake Michigan, and Lake County has plenty of gorgeous shoreline.
Leslie Miller/Google

When you head to Lake County, be sure to save some time for a hike or snowshoe the loop trail at Hastings Lake. What’s your favorite winter activity in Illinois? Do you have a favorite winter spot in Lake County or elsewhere in the state?

Curious about what to pack for your winter hikes in Illinois? We can help!

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Lake County, IL, USA