Start the morning at Summit Lake with coffee that’s anything but ordinary

Begin your day near Summit Lake with a quick stop at The Bus Stop. Yes, it’s literally served from a bus window, which somehow makes that first sip feel even more fun. Order something warm and energizing or lean into the playful side with boba, lotus, or a blended drink. It’s an easy, grab-and-go start, especially if you’re traveling with friends, kids, or a vehicle with gear.

Bonus for winter travelers: it’s a convenient fuel-up point on Highway 45 between Summit Lake and Elcho, and there’s space that works well for larger rigs and trailers. You’ll be on your way in minutes, headed straight for the woods.

Glide, crunch, and explore at Moccasin Lake Recreation Area

From there, point your windshield toward Moccasin Lake Recreation Area, just north of Antigo. This is where the day opens up. The trail system is ideal for a classic Langlade County winter experience: steady, scenic, and welcoming, whether you’re a first-timer or someone who counts ski wax as a personality trait.

Expect a well-loved Northwoods setting with a trail layout that lets you choose your pace. The loops are groomed for cross-country skiing, and snowshoers have plenty to enjoy as well. You can keep it mellow and scenic or challenge yourself with a longer outing that earns you a real post-trail appetite.

What makes this stop especially comfortable for a day trip:

• A clear place to park and gear up

• Restrooms on site

• A warming lodge where you can thaw out, rehydrate, and swap trail stories

If you’re planning a full winter weekend in Wisconsin, Moccasin Lake also fits perfectly into a bigger County of Trails itinerary. Think snowshoeing today, then snowmobiling, fat biking, or another trail system tomorrow.

Homestyle comfort at Trina’s Restaurant in Elcho

After time outdoors, the best next step is simple: eat somewhere that feels like home. Head to Trina’s Restaurant in Elcho for a classic, hearty meal that hits the spot when you’ve been out in the cold.

This is the kind of place where you can settle in, warm up, and refuel without overthinking it. Whether you’re coming in for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, it’s an easy win for comfort food and a laid-back small-town vibe.

If you’re traveling with a group, Trina’s is a great regroup point before the final stretch of the loop back to Antigo.

Overnight in Antigo with trail-friendly lodging options

Finish the day in Antigo, where you can keep the trip stress-free by staying overnight. Sleep Inn Antigo is a solid choice for travelers who want comfort and convenience after a day on the trails. You can unwind with an indoor pool and hot tub, start the next morning with breakfast, and keep your essentials simple with in-room conveniences like a refrigerator and microwave.

A standout perk for outdoor lovers: Antigo is a hub for recreation, and having trail access nearby makes it easier to plan a full weekend. If you’re bringing seasonal machines or planning a multi-day outing, that location advantage matters.

Prefer a different hotel style? Two additional options in Antigo include Holiday Inn Express for a reliable, modern stay and Super 8 for a budget-friendly overnight.

Make it a full County of Trails Weekend

Want to dig deeper into each stop? Click the link for more information on The Bus Stop, Moccasin Lake Recreation Area, Trina’s Restaurant, and Sleep Inn. This loop is a perfect single-day itinerary, but it also works beautifully as the starting point for a longer getaway. Add another trail system, explore local shops in Antigo, or plan a second day built around snowmobile and ATV/UTV routes when conditions allow. Heart your favorites to custom "Build Your Adventure" in Wisconsin's County of Trails!  Then simply click "Build Your Adventure" on top of the page to get your custom itinerary!

However you pace it, the theme stays the same: Play, Stay, Dine, and Shop in Wisconsin’s County of Trails, where winter days feel bigger, quieter, and more memorable.

Want more trip ideas like this? Build your next adventure across Langlade County and make the most of every season.