The Glide: A Winter Attraction Revitalizing Boulder Junction
In the heart of Boulder Junction, an innovative winter attraction known as “The Glide” has sparked unprecedented interest, drawing visitors from near and far. This unique 0.8-mile ice skating trail, nestled within the Northern Highland American Legion State Forest, has rapidly become a cornerstone of the community’s winter tourism, revitalizing local businesses and redefining the area’s appeal.
Steve Weber, a member of the Boulder Junction Parks Board, expressed amazement at the overwhelming response to The Glide’s debut last year. He noted, “We were told by the Canadians, ‘If you build it, they will come.’ We were all a bit skeptical. Shortly after we had our opening, we got bombarded.”
Inspired by the ice skating trail at Arrowhead Provincial Park in Ontario, The Glide was constructed last winter by the park board and numerous volunteers after a snow-less winter highlighted the potential for ice-based activities.
The Glide is the first of its kind in Wisconsin and has been recognized for its innovation with a First Ascent Award at the 2025 Governor’s Outdoor Industry Awards. Weber emphasizes Boulder Junction’s pioneering spirit, saying, “Boulder Junction has always been a town of firsts.”
Located off the beaten path, Boulder Junction does not sit on a lake like many neighboring communities, making attractions like The Glide vital for drawing visitors. Weber refers to this as “the big right turn” on Highway M, which many made last winter to experience the trail.
The influx of visitors from various locations, including Chicago, Minneapolis, the Dakotas, California, and even Spain, has significantly benefited local businesses. Haley Hiller, owner of the Boulder Junction Coffee Company, reports a surge in customers that typically do not patronize the town during winter. “I can’t even tell you how many people would come in and let us know that they were in town for The Glide. It’s been super awesome for us,” she shared.
Kevin Mantz, owner of Lakewood Market, observed a dramatic increase in visitors, comparable to the snowmobiling season, while Aqualand Ale House offered special promotions for Glide visitors. Breanna Miner, the manager at Aqualand Ale House, remarked on the positive impact, stating, “It’s very cool seeing all the families come in and telling their stories about The Glide with their kids. It’s truly a wonderful addition to Boulder Junction.”
Coontail, a local outdoor retailer, adapted to the new demand by selling and renting skates for the first time. Bridget Milne, the operations manager, described the experience as a “whirlwind” due to the high demand for skates and other winter essentials.
The second season of The Glide commenced on December 20, with volunteers diligently preparing Winter Park. Enhancements such as additional parking, improved signage, and new facilities have been made to accommodate the growing number of visitors.
Weber highlights the crucial role of volunteers in maintaining The Glide, stating, “We start out by saying, ‘We hope you have a large volunteer base.’ It’s 15 full-time volunteers out here for three weeks to get this ice built.”
Cathy Royer, who initiated the Friends of Boulder Junction Parks, emphasizes the community’s need for activities like The Glide. The previous winter’s lack of snow underscored the necessity of alternative attractions to draw visitors and boost local morale.
With a solid snow base and thick ice, Boulder Junction anticipates another successful season, welcoming guests from all over to experience The Glide.
Originally published by WXPR as part of the Wisconsin News Collaborative.
