There’s a chill in the air, and many people are looking forward to a warm, cozy winter huddled up at home by the fire. And then there are those of us whose blood gets racing in the winter, as the landscape changes and cold-weather adventures are possible. We’re heading to the best Iowa lakes in winter for activities like ice-fishing, snowmobiling, ice-skating, and brisk hikes along the shoreline. While these lakes are often jam-packed with tourists during the summer, it’s a very different story once they freeze solid. Many people might not even realize the lakes are still open for recreation – and that means that dedicated winter adventurers often have them all to themselves. It’s the perfect opportunity to put on that warm winter coat, get out there, and have some cold weather fun!

Iowa's lakes are freezing over fast, which means that a winter of recreation awaits.
Christine Warner-Morin/Flickr
Storm Lake, one of the most beautiful lakes in all of Iowa, is a beautiful spot for hiking during this time of year.
Storm Lake, IA 50588, USA
City of Storm Lake/Facebook
But other lakes are the best when it comes to that most popular of winter activities - ice-fishing!
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An ideal ice-fishing lake will have thick ice and be well-stocked with fish. Big Creek Lake, always a major destination, is one of the top picks.
Big Creek Lake, Iowa 50226, USA
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Another popular spot is Clear Lake in north central Iowa, which attracts anglers from all around - even other states.
Clear Lake, IA 50428, USA
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However, for destination fishing and recreation, there is nothing like the Iowa Great Lakes. How sturdy is the ice in northern Iowa? They host a snowmobile derby on it every year!
West Okoboji Lake, Iowa, USA
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Do you have plans for winter recreation this year? What are your favorite Iowa lakes in winter? Let us know in the comments section! You can find out more about exploring Iowa’s lakes in winter by visiting the official Iowa DNR press release. And if you’re looking for a wide range of cold weather activities, check out our list of the best things to do in Iowa in winter.

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