Because the cabin isn’t just for summer — it’s magical when the snow falls too.
When winter settles over the Northwoods, the pace of life slows down. The lake freezes, the snow piles high, and the fireplace becomes the heart of the home. While summer may get most of the attention, winter cabin time has its own kind of quiet magic — one that invites us to rest, reconnect, and truly savor the season.
I am so excited to be hosting Northwoods Living with Kristin on Up North at 4 with Agnes, Dan & Geoff on WJFW Channel 12.
Every other Thursday I host a segment during Up North @ 4 where I give ideas and encouragement for decorating, entertaining, and gifting — all with a cozy Northwoods feel.
I recently shared 10 cozy ways to enjoy cabin time in the winter whether you live Up North full-time, sneak away on weekends, or simply dream of snowy getaways.
Watch the original episode at the bottom of this post.
Bundle Up and Take a Snowy Walk
There’s nothing quite like the crunch of snow under your boots and the stillness of the forest in winter. Put on your coziest layers, grab a thermos of something warm, and go for a short walk. Even ten minutes of fresh air can shift your whole mood and make you feel alive.
Light the Fire and Stay Awhile
At the cabin, the fire isn’t just for heat — it’s a gathering place. Stoke the wood stove or light the fireplace and settle in. Whether you’re reading, journaling, or catching up with family, the soft crackle of the fire adds comfort and connection.
Style a Winter Blanket Basket
Keep warm blankets within reach by placing them in a vintage crate basket by the door or fireplace. Include flannel throws, wool camp blankets, and maybe even a few cozy socks for guests. The goal? Make everyone feel welcome and warm.
Start a Seasonal Reading Stack
There’s something so comforting about getting lost in a good book on a snowy afternoon. Stack a few books near your favorite chair — wintery mysteries, local history, field guides, or even old family photo albums. I love styling mine in a basket or tray.
Create a Cozy Drink Station
Set up a self-serve coffee, cocoa, or tea bar with everything you need for warm beverages all day long. Include camp mugs, marshmallows, cinnamon sticks, and even a plaid thermos for taking drinks out to the firepit or porch swing.
Add Glow with Lamp Light, Candles & Lantern
In winter, the glow of lamplight and candlelight makes everything feel magical. Cluster candles in vintage jars, light an old oil lamp, or use battery-powered lanterns for soft, flickering glow in the early evenings. It’s like instant hygge — Northwoods-style.
Play Board Games or Do a Puzzle
Unplug and reconnect with an old-fashioned game night. Bring out the Scrabble board, a deck of cards, or start a puzzle on the dining table. It’s a tradition that slows you down and brings everyone together — no screens needed.
Watch the Snowfall with Intention
Place a chair by the window and just sit for a moment. Add a blanket, a mug, maybe a journal, and simply watch the snow fall. Winter invites us to pause — to be still and notice the beauty around us.
Capture the Quiet Beauty
Winter is full of understated beauty: frosted pine branches, frozen lakes, deer tracks in the snow. Keep your camera (or phone) handy and document these peaceful scenes. They make great memories and even better artwork or Christmas cards later on!
Cook Something Comforting
From cinnamon rolls to cast iron chili, winter is for comfort food. Let your cabin smell like butter and cinnamon. Fill the fridge with leftovers and invite everyone to gather around the table — or eat breakfast by the fire in your slippers.
Embrace the Stillness
Winter at the cabin is about simplicity. It’s about long mornings, early nights, and savoring the stillness. It’s less hustle, more heart. And the best part? You don’t need much. A fire, a few blankets, and the people you love are more than enough.
Looking to add some Northwoods charm to your winter? Come visit us at White Arrows Home in Minocqua — we’ve got everything from vintage camp blankets to cozy mugs and decor to help you make your cabin even more inviting this season.
And tune in to Northwoods Living with Kristin on Up North at 4 with Agnes, Dan & Geoff on WJFW Channel 12.
Enjoy the episode:
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Which of these cozy winter ideas will you try first? Let me know in the comments or tag me on Instagram @whitearrowshome — I’d love to see how you make winter magic at your place.
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