Action Oct/Nov 2016 by 5 Star Marketing & Distribution

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Editor’s Column Dean S. Acheson

The peak of Colorama is here

The period of autumn known as Colorama is a glorious time to be in the great outdoors of the Northwoods! With this issue’s timely arrival on 5 Star’s stands we’re at the peak of Colorama – the first week or sometimes 10 days of October – when the woods and riverbanks are ablaze with reds, yellows and oranges.

Bathed in sunlight, the trails are well suited for a romantic morning hike linked arm-in-arm with your partner. The fallen leaves that cover the trail are like flower petals sprinkled on the wedding chapel floor. Scattered throughout the Northwoods are hike/bike trails – new ones in Ashland and Mercer – that are now refreshingly cool to ride or walk. Autumn means smaller crowds, with little, if any, wait time to get a table at your favorite restaurant. Feel free to unleash the pocketbook for early holiday shopping in our unique shops – ranging

from clothing to antiques to gifts. Skiers will want to pick up their early season passes at the downhill ski resorts and XC ski facilities. Score a lodging special and extend your stay for a relaxing getaway. As October surrenders to November, a cozy fireplace at a B&B, motel or resort is the perfect tonic to the colder temps. While the reds and yellows have disappeared in November, blaze orange returns to the Northwoods for the deer hunting season. With the Northwoods’ vast public lands open to hunting – waterfowl, upland birds, small game as well as deer – there will be tasty wild game on the menu at countless homes. The lakes are still open and wise fishermen know that some of the best walleye and muskie fishing takes place at this time of the year. All in all, you’ll fall in love with the land we call Up North!

Inside this Issue

Editor’s Column..................................................................................................................................................................................................................Pg. 4 St. Croix Rods.......................................................................................................................................................................................... Inside Front Cover Iron County Lodging.............................................................................................................................................................................. Inside Back Cover Muskie Expo........................................................................................................................................................................................................... Back Cover

Big Snow Country - Western U.P. Michigan.........................................................................Pg. 41

Published By: 5 Star Marketing & Distribution 409 Southpark Drive Tomahawk, WI 54487 715-453-4511 E-mail: info@5starupnorth.com

Owner/Publisher Al Hanley alh@5starupnorth.com Editor Dean Acheson DeanAcheson@yahoo.com Accounting Jackie Blodgett

Marketing Associates Al Hanley Jeff Eberle Janine Dutton-Slatinsky Production Office Lori Morris

Distribution Gaylon Heise Jeff Safranek James Schneider Brian Wiedeman Graphic Designers Danelle Pretasky Brittany Hazelquist

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Map & Index

Counties Covered in this issue NORTHWOODS REGION

NORTHWEST REGION

Forest County.........................................page 6

Ashland County................................. page 27

Iron County.............................................page 8

Barron County.................................... page 30

Langlade County............................... page 10

Bayfield County.................................. page 31

Lincoln County................................... page 11

Burnett County................................... page 32

Marinette County.............................. page 14

Polk County......................................... page 35

Oneida County................................... page 16

Sawyer County................................... page 36

Price County........................................ page 20

Washburn County............................. page 40

Vilas County......................................... page 22 U.P MICHIGAN Big Snow Country.....................pages 41-43

Iron County/Iron County Lodging......... Pages 44-47

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Forest County Calendar

Nov. 18-20 Crandon – Holiday Open House: Dec. 10 Crandon – Breakfast with Santa: Crandon Schools.

Paddle your way to a new adventure

COUNTYWIDE – There is still time yet this fall to get in a canoe or kayak trip down one of the pristine rivers found in Forest County and its neighboring counties. The river routes run from mild to wild, so be sure to match your abilities with the river! And wear a lifejacket as the rivers have turned much cooler. Before you go check with the chamber of commerce or the U.S. Forest Service on river levels as low water flow may make passage difficult on some rivers or stretches. As a bonus, many of the rivers are known for their excellent trout populations. A spinner or fly cast into an eddy should tempt a trout. The Forest County Chamber of Commerce lists these rivers for you to enjoy:

Brule River - Forest County:

• Put-in below Brule Lake Dam. Take-out at Highway 139 Bridge. Length - 18 miles. Water should be medium high. Two rapids. USDA Forest Service campground two miles east of Nelma. Peshtigo River - Forest and Marinette Counties: • Put-in at Big Joe Canoe Landing and float to the CCC Bridge for 7.5 miles. This is a nice stretch of quiet water that is good for the novice or families. • Put-in at the CCC Bridge and float to Burnt Bridge for 9.5 miles. This stretch is for the intermediate canoeist; there are several rocky stretches with rapids. • Put-in at Burnt Bridge and float to Burton Wells for 5.75 miles. This stretch contains Class II, III, and IV rapids. There is one portage around Michigan Rapids. • Put-in at Burton Wells and float 6.25 miles to Goodman Park. This stretch contains Class II, III, and IV rapids. There is one mandatory portage around the falls. Pine River - Forest and Florence Counties: • Put-in at FS Road 2182 near Haystack Corners. Take-out at FS Road 2168. Length is 20

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miles. Slow, winding up to Hwy. 55. Faster with a few difficult rapids after Hwy. 55. Trout fishing.

Popple River - Forest County: • Put-in at Highway 55 ten miles north of Argonne. Take-out at the Town of Popple River. Water must be high. Two under-developed campsites on the route. Brook and brown trout fishing. Very secluded area. One portage, few rapids. Wabikon and Riley Lakes Canoeing Path: • 6 miles east of Crandon. Aquatic birds such as osprey and Great Blue Heron live among these lakes. In the hemlock forest, on a peninsula on the west shore, sightings of birds such as the Nashville Warbler can emerge. Wild rice can be found on these lakes. A stream on the south end leads to Riley Lake, an undeveloped and shallow lake. From there you can paddle the Indian River on the south end upstream to Indian Springs, another marsh community with spring ponds. You can also fish for brook trout on the Indian River and in the springs. Directions: This 1,000-acre site is best traveled by canoe. From Crandon, travel east 5.5 miles on Hwy. 8/32. Turn south on Potawatomi Trail, to find the boat landing 0.2

Wolf River - Forest and Oneida Counties: • Put-in at Pine Lake. Take-out at Little Rice Lake Dam. Length 10 miles. Small stream, water should be medium high. There are a few riffle rapids and occasional beaver dams. Eagle, deer and small mammals are common sights. Secluded area. • Put-in at Little Rice Dam. Take-out at Highway B Bridge. Length is 15 miles. Small winding stream. Water should be medium high. Numerous beaver dams, wild rice beds, railroad artifacts, rocky shallows. Very secluded.

Crandon Trifecta

Bear Lake Campground an ideal fall stop LAONA -- If you are interested in a quiet campground and excellent pike fishing, Bear Lake Campground located in the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest is for you. And even better, the summer crowds are gone so you won’t see a “no vacancy” sign! The campground is also popular with grouse hunters and fall color enthusiasts. The Rat River Hike and Bike Trail is a good nearby hiking opportunity. The campground is open until Nov. 28 this year. Twenty-two campsites (an additional 5 are walk-in) are situated along the wooded shore and ridge with outstanding views of the lake, according to staff at the Lakewood/Laona Ranger District. Reservations can be made by visiting recreation.gov. For more details, call 715-674-4481. This campground sits on the southwest corner of 68-acre Bear Lake (electric boat motors only). Drinking water, vault toilets, swim beach, picnic area and a boat landing are also provided at this location. Fish species found in the lake are northern pike, panfish and largemouth bass. Trout fishing opportunities are nearby on the Peshtigo and Rat Rivers. • From Wabeno, drive north 5.5 miles or from Laona drive south 3.0 miles to County Road T. Turn right (east) and drive 3 miles to County Road H. Turn left (north) drive 0.75 miles to Goodman Park Road (FR 2136). Turn east (right) and drive 4.1 miles to FR 3770. Turn right (south) on FR 3770 and drive 0.4 miles to the campground.

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• Put-in at FS Road 2168 to Chipmunk Rapids. Length is 18 miles. Excellent trout fishing. Several rapids. Portage around a dam. Picnic area at Highway 139. Camping area at Stevens Creek and Chipmunk Rapids. Some boulders.

of a mile down on the south side of the road. For more information, call (715) 674-4481 (U.S. Forest Service) or visit www. fs.fed.us/r9/cnnf1.2

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Iron County Calendar

Oct. 6-9 Mercer – Pumpkin Run ATV Rally. Mercercc.com. Oct. 14-15 Mercer – Wounded Warrior Musky Tournament: Thegatewaylodge.com or 715-476-7878. Oct. 22 Mercer – Lasagna Feed: 4-7pm, Community Center. Nov. 4 Mercer – Chili Cook-Off: 11am to 4pm, Associated Bank. Nov. 19 Mercer – Christmas Bazaar: 9am to 2pm, Community Center. Crafts and raffles, turkey dinner. Nov. 19 Mercer – Hunter’s Chilifest/Pie Sale: 5-8pm, St. Isaac Jogues Catholic Church. Dec. 3 Mercer – Santa Comes to Loon Town: 4-6pm, Community Center. Tree lighting, treats for kids from Santa and more. Dec. 10 Mercer – Candy Cane Parade: Parade at 3:30pm; raffle, treats and hot cocoa, baking contest.

Mercer has a new hike/bike trail

MERCER – Iron County, WI offers a lot of outdoor adventure opportunities for visitors, including ATVing, fishing, camping, canoeing and kayaking, mountain biking and now a paved hike/ bike trail from Mercer south and connecting to the town of Manitowish Waters hike/bike trails – and beyond! From its conception to the birth of the trail, it’s been a 13-year odyssey for local supporters of the trail. Federal, state and local funds – including private fundraising efforts – culminated in this new 7-mile trail for those seeking another outlet for fun. The trail begins at the Great Northern Motel in Mercer and works it way south along U.S. Highway 51 to the Vilas County line. For more details on the trail, contact the Mercer Area Chamber of Commerce at 715-476-2389 or info@mercercc.com.

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MERCER – The Mercer Lioness Club is having its annual Christmas bazaar, 9am to 2pm, Saturday, Nov. 19 at the Community Center, 2648 Margaret St, Mercer. Start your Christmas shopping with the many handcrafted crafts that will be available. In addition, there will be a bake sale and raffles. Homemade soup and sandwiches and beverages will be available. For more information, call Genne at 715-476-7613. Everyone is welcome to the annual Hunters Chilifest and pie sale, 5-8pm, at St. Isaac Jogues Catholic Church, 2611 Garnet Street, Mercer on Saturday, Nov. 19. There will be a hunters Mass at 6:30pm.

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Christmas bazaar, Hunters Chilifest will be at Mercer

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Langlade County

Dirty Dog Dryland sled dog races PEARSON – Come experience the excitement of sled dog racing on dry land at the Ma-Ka-Ja-Wan Boy Scout Reservation on Saturday and Sunday, Oct. 29 and 30. The Dirty Dog Dryland Event races start at 9am both days. You’ll see teams with bikes, scooters, carts, and dogs partnered with running mushers. Spectators are encouraged to visit with

drivers and schmooze with their dogs at their trucks. Home cooked food service will be available at race site. Free admission and plenty of parking is available. Visit witrailblazers.com for more information. Ma-Ka-Ja-Wan Boy Scout Reservation is located at W6500 Spring Lake Road, Pearson.

Find the perfect gift for everyone on your list

If you’re looking for some unique gifts for this holiday season, Langlade County is a great place to start. Here are two craft shows where you can spend the morning, afternoon or all day browsing a wide selection of handmade crafts. ANTIGO – The Antigo Junior Woman’s Club 41st annual Craft/

Trade Show will be held at the Langlade County Fairgrounds in the Multi Purpose Building on Saturday, Oct. 15 from 9am to 3:30pm. Fall and winter unique items are for sale by many different vendors from the area and out of state. The fair features more than 100 exhibitors, raffles, and concession stands with food and refreshments and a bake sale. Admission $2 at the door or $1 and a can of food. Children under 10 are free with an adult. All proceeds benefit the Langlade County area organizations. The fairgrounds is located at 1633 Neva Rd., Antigo. ELCHO – If you can’t make the Antigo craft show, or you love to shop craft shows, there’s another one in Langlade County just around the calendar corner. The fifth annual Christmas Craft Show at the Elcho Community Pavilion will be on Dec. 3 starting at 9am and going until 4pm. There will be raffles, drawings, food and beverages all day. Call 715-216-1346 for further information.

Over 400 Vehicles!

4381 Stradale ln. • aniwa, WI 54408 • www.alfaheaven.com • 715-449-2141 Open May through October (Tues. through Sat.), 9am - 5pm • admission: $10 adults, Kids Free!

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Lincoln County

Tomahawk Venison Feed is a long-standing tradition TOMAHAWK – Here’s how to score some venison without firing a shot! The Tomahawk Area Chamber of Commerce invites deer hunters to their 51st annual Venison Feed on Friday, Nov. 18 (always the day before Wisconsin’s gun deer season opener). Chamber staff and volunteers from the business community will fire up the grills and cook venison burgers (mixed with beef) -- served without cost to the crowd -- beginning at 11:30am near the post office in Historic Downtown Tomahawk. Each of the 1,500 or so sandwiches is accompanied by a bag of chips and soda. Donations are always appreciated to keep this multi-generational event going. A round of thanks also goes to hunters who annually donate a portion of their venison for the cookout. There is also a raffle or two, usually centered around a rifle, as well as bake sale items sponsored by local non-profit organizations. Hundreds of people attend this grand kick-off to the 9-day gun deer season. A number are clad in blaze orange with a few sporting animal capes or antlers as headdress. It’s a way for the business community to show their appreciation for visitors and locals alike. Tomahawk is surrounded by woodlots and forests and is home to hundreds of cabins – some used solely for deer hunting.

Calendar

Oct. 8 Tomahawk – Lions Oktoberfest: 6-11pm, SARA Park. German food and refreshments, Music Connection plays 7-11pm. Oct. 29 Tomahawk – Fall Festival: 9am to 3pm. Nov. 12 Merrill – Craft Sales: Various locations. Nov. 18 Tomahawk – Venison Feed: 11:30am start, downtown. Free burgers, chips, and soda. Donations welcomed. Nov. 26 Tomahawk – Northern Lights Christmas Parade & Winter Wonderland: Downtown. Parade starts at 4:30pm. Free movies at Tomahawk Cinema at 11am and 2pm. Santa visit after the parade. Hot cocoa at the bonfire, horse-drawn wagon rides. Dec. 3 Merrill – Lighted Christmas Parade: 5-6pm. Parade travels through city and ends at courthouse where Santa will light the Christmas wreath. Dec. 3 Merrill – Park Manor Luminaria: Drive, walk or take a horse-drawn wagon ride through the neighborhood to see luminary candles. Dec. 3-4 Merrill – O’Tannenbaum Tour: Enjoy lights and decorations on trees and wreaths. Raffle. Dec. 10 Merrill – Breakfast with Santa: 8-11am, Smith Center (MARAC). Registration required – call 715-5367313. Santa will be there.

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Dean S. Acheson Photo

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Lighted Christmas parades add sparkle to the Northwoods MERRILL & TOMAHAWK – Nothing moves you quicker into the holiday spirit than a lighted Christmas parade – and there are two of them in Lincoln County!

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Tomahawk’s Christmas Parade & Winter Wonderland The Tomahawk Regional Chamber of Commerce invites everybody to the annual Christmas Parade & Winter Wonderland celebration from 4:30-7:30pm, Saturday, Nov. 26. Take the kids to the 11am or the 2pm showings of the free movie at the Tomahawk Cinema. The parade starring Santa himself will begin at 4:30pm from the east end of Wisconsin Avenue by Tomahawk Community Bank and end at 2nd Street by Century 21. Then come visit Santa after the parade at Santa’s Cabin at the Rodeo Saloon and walk through the beautifully decorated Christmas trees in the Winter Wonderland. Enjoy a cup of hot cocoa at the bonfire and take a ride in the horse-drawn wagon. For more information call the chamber at 715-453-5334. Merrill’s Lighted Christmas Parade Join the Merrill Area Chamber of Commerce staff and Santa for the 26th annual Lighted Christmas Parade from 5-6pm Saturday, Dec. 3. Enjoy the magical lights as the parade steps off on Merrill’s west side on the corner of South Genesee and West Main Streets and travels east on West Main/Polk Street/East Second/East First/ Mill Street/East Main to the Lincoln County courthouse. Santa will bring up the rear of the parade riding on a fire truck.

Traditions Consignment Antiques Home Furnishings

214 West Wisconsin Avenue Tomahawk, WI 54487

715-224-2240 TraditionsEtc@hotmail.com

Santa will then light the 20foot Christmas wreath and trees to kick-off the Christmas season. Everyone is invited to take part in the Christmas caroling.

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Your Area Northwoods Real Estate Specialists, Ed & Chris Raasch

Chris Raasch, Broker Owner Ed Raasch, Broker Owner

303 N. 4th Street Tomahawk, WI 54487 Office: 715-224-3800

715-612-7925 ed@woodlandlakesrealty.com

Make us your “home” page

www.WoodlandLakesRealty.com

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715-612-7926 chris@woodlandlakesrealty.com

Marinette County

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Calendar

Nov. 21 Marinette – Astronomy at the Arboretum: 715-732-7780. Nov. 26 Marinette – Christmas in the Village: Dec. 3 Marinette – Christmas in Marinette: Parade at noon, Welcome Center open house 1-3pm, Santa at library, tree lighting ceremony on Stephenson Island.

Enjoy the fall colors along a Rustic Road Wisconsin’s Rustic Roads pack a lot of beauty and serenity in their relatively short distances. There are 117 officially designated Rustic Roads spanning more than 669 miles through 59 counties. Marinette County is home to three of these Rustic Road routes, including the longest.

Roads. These routes provide bikers, hikers, and motorists an opportunity to leisurely travel (maximum speed limit is 45 mph on Rustic Roads) through some of Wisconsin’s best scenic countryside. For motorcyclists, Wisconsin offers a special Rustic Roads award program.

Unique brown and yellow signs mark the routes of all Rustic Rustic Road 32 37 miles long, pavement and gravel -- Parkway Road from County W north to County C, then on County I to US 8. Also Goodman Park Road from County I to the park entrance. Rustic Road 32 offers vistas of the Thunder and Peshtigo rivers and High Falls and Caldron Falls flowages. It’s adjacent to a state wildlife refuge and Marinette County Forest land. There are granite boulders, rock outcroppings and abundant wildlife to admire along the way. Rustic Road 44 6.5 miles long, pavement -- Right-of-Way Road from Sumac

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Right-of-Way Road crosses two creeks and is adjacent to a state wildlife refuge and Marinette County forestland. According to the Loomis Historical Society, R-44 was originally part of the Wisconsin-Michigan Railroad. Rustic Road 97 5 miles long, pavement and gravel -- City Road and Creek Road forming a loop off County X near the intersection of US 141 and County X. A curvy, hilly route passing through many wooded areas that often form a scenic canopy over the road, R-97 also offers some outstanding agricultural vistas, abundant wildlife and a view of a small lake.

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Lane east to County X. A second branch of Right-of-Way Road extends southeast to the Porterfield Lake town line.

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Oneida County Calendar

Oct. 8 Three Lakes – Three Eagle Trail Half Marathon: 3eagletrail.com/halfmarathon/. Oct. 8 Three Lakes – Pumpkin Fest: High school. 715-5463588. Oct. 13 Rhinelander – Pelican Lake Woman’s Civic Club Style Show: Holiday Acres, 715-4875222. Oct. 15 Minocqua – Zoo Boo: 1-5pm, Wildwood Wildlife Park. Oct. 31 Three Lakes – Lions Club Party & Parade: Nov. 5 Minocqua – Tis’ the Season Craft Show: 9am to 3pm, Lakeland Union High School. Nov. 19-20 Minocqua -- The Waters Holiday Market: The Waters of Minocqua. Local crafters and vendors. Nov. 26 Minocqua – Christmas Gift & Craft Fair: 9am to 3pm, Lakeland Union High School. Nov. 26 Minocqua – Christmas

in Minocqua: 1-5pm, downtown. Santa and his reindeer, children’s activities, horse-drawn wagon rides. Nov. 29 Woodruff – Wine, Women & Winter: 5-8pm. J.J.’s Acres. Dec. 10 Minocqua – Cookie Walk: 9:30am start. United Methodist Church of the Pines Dec. 10 Minocqua -- Skijor & Ski Shop Demo Day: 10am, Winter Park. Dec. 31 Minocqua – Chill Out: 1pm, polar bear plunge. Thirsty Whale. Dec. 31 Woodruff – Red Hot New Year’s Eve Celebration: Woodruff Community Center. Ice skating, kids activities, fireworks. Dec. 31 Minocqua – Light up the Night Concert & Party: 5pm, Minocqua Winter Park. Night skiing, skating and tubing, food and music.

‘Christmas in Minocqua’ is a holiday treat for all MINOCQUA – Bundle up the kids when Saturday, Nov. 26 arrives and take them to the Island of Minocqua for the annual “Christmas in Minocqua” celebration. Festivities begin at noon. Everything is within easy walking distance for all ages. Downtown Minocqua will host Santa and his reindeer, children’s activities, horse-drawn wagon rides and hot refreshments in anticipation of the official lighting of the Christmas display later that afternoon. The Minocqua Museum will be open for this special occasion. Stop by and enjoy seeing the artifacts and other memorabilia of Minocqua’s romantic resort era, its lumbering decades and the railroads that made it all possible. Santa’s reindeer will be set up next to the Museum. Take a ride on the horse-drawn wagon and then stop by Veterans Park to warm yourself by the fire and enjoy hot chocolate and cookies. Don’t forget to pick up some roasted chestnuts from Boy Scout troop #565. They will be set up on Oneida Street. At approximately 12:45pm, Santa will make a loop around downtown Minocqua on a horse-drawn wagon before arriving at Gaslight Square. He will make the loop down Main Street (Oneida Street) to Park Avenue and then north on Flambeau Street, to Front Street and back down Oneida Street. Santa and his elves will visit with children at the Gaslight Square Shoppes until 4:30pm. While at the Gaslight Square Shoppes stop by for free children’s crafts, supplied by the Lakeland Kiwanis Club. At 4:30pm. Santa and Mrs. Claus will lead the way to Veterans Park for carols and the official lighting of the Christmas display at approximately 5pm.

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RHINELANDER – The Haunted Hodag Howl on Saturday, Oct. 22 welcomes the adult crowd for an evening of games, raffles, hors d’ oeuvres, cash bar, music and dancing. It will be held at the Quality Inn in Rhinelander with festivities starting at 6:30pm. Although you do not have to come in costume, those who do will receive five free raffle tickets. In addition to the above, the Hodag auction starts at 8pm. Tickets are $15 and are available at Trig’s, Rhinelander Cafe & Pub and at the door. For more information, call Downtown Rhinelander at 715-362-7374 or visit downtownrhinelander.com.

6829 Hwy. 51 | Hazelhurst, WI 54531 715-358-5349 | rydencats@frontier.com

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Haunted Hodag Howl returns to Rhinelander

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Follow these tips to ensure venison is of the highest quality MINOCQUA – A successful deer hunt doesn’t end when the deer goes down. Just as you study the terrain in advance, prepare equipment, and practice with the bow or rifle, it’s equally important to field dress the deer properly. There are field dressing guides readily available in hunting magazines or online, so we won’t work those details in this story. However, some hunters overlook the negative impact of not keeping the carcass clean. Sloppy handling of the carcass can result in contamination of the meat and an off-flavor. Larry Stenz, general manager of TJ’s Butcher Block & Market in Minocqua, is also a deer hunter. He elects to drag his deer to the deer pole and field dress it from there. But for successful hunters field dressing deer in the woods or field, he reminds them to “keep things clean and sterile.” A pair of field dressing gloves makes the task easier. Putting the deer on an incline helps drains the blood and makes rolling out the intestines easier. It’s important that the anus is cut out at that time as bacterial can spread from the fecal matter inside. It’s a step some hunters either overlook or they figure the

processor can do it. But not doing it immediately can spoil the meat quickly. Throughout the process and subsequent dragging out of the animal, keep dirt, leaves and twigs out of the carcass. Bring along water and paper towels to wash out the carcass if it has been tainted by contents of the digestive or urinary tracts and to pat dry the interior, both of which can be done when getting back to the vehicle. Keep the carcass cool; use sticks to prop the cavity open if you plan to remain in the hunting stand. Back home, keep the harvested animal in the shade and put a bag of ice in the cavity. Or, take it to a professional processor as soon as possible. TJ’s Butcher Block has a refrigerated trailer to handle the large number of deer brought in over the opening weekend. “It’s a pretty neat system that we have here,” he said, adding hunters are welcomed to come and watch the operation. They offer skinning, trimming and cutting, as well as vacuum sealing and labeling of the meat. They also participate in the Wisconsin donation program.

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68 S. Stevens Street | Downtown Rhinelander | 715.362.4328

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Price County Calendar

Oct. 20 Fifield – Ruffed Grouse Society Sportsman’s Banquet: 5:30pm, Northwoods Supper Club. Oct. 22-23 Kennan – Jump River Run Dryland Dog Sledding: Lauhala Kennels. Training for beginners on Friday; races Saturday and Sunday. Oct. 22 Brantwood – Harvest Festival Dinner: 4-6:30pm, Community Center. Hearty, homemade bison stew is featured, raffle drawing. Oct. 29 Park Falls – Monster Madness: Children’s activities, costume parade at noon, run/walk at 7:30pm and haunted house. Nov. 12 Phillips -- Holiday Crafts & Treasures Sale: 9am to 3pm, Municipal Building. Nov. 18 Lugerville – Lugerville Chasers Pie Auction: 7-9pm, South Fork Tavern. Nov. 19 Phillips– Save the Lugerville School Pie Auction & Raffle: 8-10pm, Crane Chase Tavern. Nov. 21 Fifield -- Sno-Drovers’ Sportsmen’s Banquet: 6pm, Northwoods Supper Club. Nov. 24 Park Falls – Turkey Trot 5k Road Run/Walk: parkfalls.com Nov. 26 Park Falls – Kris Kringle Christmas: 10am to 7:30pm. “Lighting Up the Park,” other events. Dec. 2 Phillips – Christmas Parade & Tree Lighting: 6pm, downtown. Dec. 3 Brantwood – Finnish Independence Day Celebration: 2-5pm, Community Center.

‘Jump River Run’ Dryland Sled Dog Races KENNAN – Dog mushers from throughout the Midwest and Canada will gather for the Jump River Run Dryland Dog Sled Races set for Saturday and Sunday, Oct. 22-23 at the Richard Baum farm in Kennan. Classes include rigs/carts, bicycles (bikejoring), scooters and canicross (running with a dog). The races are short (1-2.5 miles), and families of all ages are welcome to watch, and meet the dogs and their owners (ask for permission to pet the dogs). Races begin at 9am Saturday and Sunday. There is no charge to watch; there is a nominal fee to participate. The Baum farm is located at N3438 Woodlawn Road. Novice and beginner racers are welcome to participate but are encouraged to contact the race organizers in advance for information on racing. There is a beginners clinic on Friday, Oct. 21 covering the basics of the sport. The clinic will begin at 1pm. Bring your dogs (and helmet if you have one) and the race organizers will provide equipment. More information is available at witrailblazers.org. This International Sled Dog Racing Association is sanctioning the dryland race. Several of the classes will also be IFSS (International Federation of Sleddog Sports) accredited. Timing overseen by Wisconsin Trailblazers Sled Dog Club officials.

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PARK FALLS – Runners and walkers will be carving off calories at the Park Falls Area Chamber of Commerce’s annual Turkey Trot 5k fun/walk on Thanksgiving morning, Nov. 24. The event will take place even if snow is in the forecast! Dress up in your best turkey outfit and trot along. Registration begins at 8am. Our Turkey Day athletes will set off at 9am from City Hall. Turkeys will be presented to the first male and female finishers. There is no professional timing. Shirts guaranteed for all earlybird pre-registrations. Call the chamber at 715-762-2703 or visit parkfalls.com for more details. Be sure to wear blaze orange for your safety as this will held during the gun deer season. A portion of the proceeds will be donated to a worthy community cause. Bring a non-perishable food item as well to be donated to the local food pantry, “The Lord’s Cupboard.”

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‘Turkey Trot’ runners gobble up road miles

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Vilas County Calendar

Oct. 7-9 Phelps – Midwest Musky Classic: 715-545-3800 or phelpswi.us. Oct. 8 Boulder Junction – Harvest Fest: 10am to 3pm. Costume parade, hayrides, more. Nov. 5 Presque Isle – Christmas in November Craft Fair & Luncheon. Lioness sponsored. 715-6862733. Nov. 12 St. Germain – Christmas Bazaar: 10am to 3pm, Community Center. Craft show, cookies by the pound, raffles, Santa visit. Nov. 26 St. Germain – Jingle Bell 3K Run/Walk/Roll/Pull: Walk, bike or sled the 3K followed by holiday parade and tree lighting at dusk, open house at fire department, Santa visit. St-Germain.com or 715477-2205. Dec. 2 Manitowish Waters – Santa’s Christmas for the Town: 4pm start at Community Center. Christmas crafts; food, Christmas cookies, Santa visit at 5pm, tree lighting at 7pm, bonfire. Dec. 3 Manitowish Waters – Holiday Home Tour & Luncheon: 10am to 2pm, tour area homes, lunch and raffles at Little Bohemia. Dec. 26-31 Manitowish Waters – Marvel in Manitowish Waters: Story hour, crafts, horse-drawn wagon rides, live music, snowshoeing, dances, and more.

St. Germain delivers with holiday fun, shopping

ST. GERMAIN – The charming community of St. Germain is perfect for evoking the Christmas spirit, and this November you and your family will want to check out their three weekends of fun activities. For more information on the events, visit StGermain.com or call 715-477-2205. Christmas bazaar Get into the holiday spirit early at the Christmas bazaar on Saturday, Nov. 12, 10am to 3pm, at the St. Germain Community Center, 545 Hwy. 155. The craft show features fresh wreaths and garland, cookies sold by the pound, raffles and a visit from Jolly Old St. Nick. Proceeds from the bazaar benefit the mentoring program for the Northwoods Big Brothers Big Sisters. Jingle Bell Run, Walk, Roll or Pull Needing to move a little after a fun and filling Thanksgiving meal with family and friends? Then you will want to enter the Jingle Bell 3 km on Saturday, Nov. 26. Dress for the weather and run, walk, roll on your bike or pull your kids and grandkids on a sled and join in the “jingling” for the holiday season. The Jingle Bell Run, Walk, Roll or Pull will start at 4pm at the St. Germain Community Center. The 3 km route will follow the Bike & Hike Trail along Hwy. 70. Finish up at the fire department where you can enjoy the “Lighting up St. Germain” holiday parade, tree lighting and open house at the fire department. All pre-registered racers will receive a commemorative long sleeve t-shirt and a set of jingle bells. “Lighting Up St. Germain” holiday parade Join the chamber staff and local businesses in kicking off the holidays on Saturday, Nov. 26 by shopping Small Business Saturday throughout the day and stay to enjoy the “Lighting Up St. Germain” holiday parade at dusk (5pm). The parade will end at the fire department where you can enjoy caroling, the lighting of the Christmas tree, a visit with Santa and tour the fire department.

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PHELPS -- The Phelps Chamber announces its 36th annual Midwest Musky Classic will be Oct. 7-9 on Lac Vieux Desert, Big Sand Lake, and North and South Twin lakes in Phelps. Fishing hours are 8am to 6pm both Friday and Saturday and 7-11am Sunday. The $85 registration fee per fisherman includes a tournament hat, entry into the Big Fish competition each day and a free luncheon on Sunday. Registration is for single fisherman only, and prizes are awarded based on musky length guidelines. The first place winner will receive $1,200 and a replica of the winning fish from Lax Reproductions. Second and third prizes will be $700 and $500 respectively (depending on number of participants). The award ceremony and luncheon will be at noon Sunday at the Phelps Fire Hall. Numerous prizes will be raffled off during this time. For more information, visit the Phelps Chamber website at phelpswi.us or call 715-545-3800.

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Midwest Musky Classic shines spotlight on Phelps

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409 South Park Dr • Tomahawk, WI 54487

Give your business the exposure it deserves! • Magazines • Distribution • Design Services • Visitor Guides • Brochures • Plus So Much More!

When traveling look for our 600+ racks filled with brochures, rack cards, maps, visitor guides & other travel information.

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LAC DU FLAMBEAU -- The Northern Hornshoe Trails Snowmobile Club of Lac du Flambeau is holding a raffle offering four great prizes to winners. The prize drawing will take place at 4pm on Feb. 4 at Cricket’s Bar & Grill, located on Hwy. 70 West in Lac Du Flambeau. Those who purchase raffle tickets need not be present to win. First place prize is a 2017 Arctic Cat Prowler 500 UTV sponsored by R & R Motorsports of Hazelhurst. It’s a newly designed four-wheel drive model UTV with a four-stroke liquid cooled motor. Second place prize is a Triton all-aluminum 6x10-foot UTV trailer sponsored by Ryden’s Marine of Minocqua. Third place prize is the winner’s choice of 500 gallons of LP or 200 gallons of gasoline donated by Ritchie Lakeland Oil & Propane of Minocqua. Fourth place prize is a 32-inch Samsung LED TV donated by Woodruff Appliance and TV. Raffle tickets are $10 each. Tickets may be purchased at area business locations displaying the raffle poster. Or call fundraiser chairman Wally Obermann at 715-614-2903 or club president Keith Weber at 715-614-0124 for tickets. The club maintains trails from Lac du Flambeau north to Mercer and west to the Price County trails. Club members are working hard to raise money for snowmobile trail grooming equipment and trail maintenance so that snowmobilers will have the best experience possible on Lakeland area trails, Obermann said. If you would like join the club, contact Weber.

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Northern Hornshoe Trails sponsoring fundraiser

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Lion’s Club Walleye Classic welcomes anglers Boulder Junction - The Boulder Junction Lions Club will host their inaugural Walleye Classic on Friday & Saturday, Oct. 7 & 8. All of the proceeds will support the Boulder Junction Lions Club local programs. This is a catch and release tournament on 14 area lakes with awards being given to the teams catching the most total inches: 1st place, $300; 2nd, $200; and 3rd, $150. Registration is $100 per two-person team and includes the fish fry dinners. Rule and entry form can be found at boulderjct.org/ event/boulder-junction-lions-club-walleye-classic/. Orientation is at 9am that Friday at the Boulder Junction Community Center. Friday fishing is from 10am to 6pm. Saturday fishing continues from 7am to 4pm. The day will close with tournament awards; raffle prizes winners announced and a fish fry at Headwaters Restaurant and Tavern. Raffle prizes (also open to the general public) include, first prize of a St. Croix Avid spinning rod with a Daiwa Revros 2500H reel, 2nd place is $100 and 3rd place $50 Boulder Bucks Tickets are 6/$5 and are available at Northern Highland Sports, Gooch’s A-1 Bar and Grill, Boulder Junction Chamber of Commerce, the Boulder Bear Motor Lodge or by contacting Bob Bertch at 715-385-2711. You do not need to be present to win.

Enjoy Harvest Fest in Boulder Junction BOULDER JUNCTION – Harvest Fest will be a day of family fun on Saturday, Oct. 8 with autumn sweets, food, games for kids, face painting, shopping and hayrides in downtown Boulder Junction. From 10am to 3pm, bring the kids, dressed in costume, to join Granny Autumn as she leads them to various activities and games. Take an old fashioned ride on tractor drawn hay wagon through town. Adults can take part in a cranberry wine tasting held at Alder Lake Cranberry Gift Shop. Shoppers can collect receipts from purchases made in town and bring them to “Shop the Haystack” for a chance to win prizes and gift certificates. The Boulder Junction Volunteer Fire Department will have tours of the station throughout the day. Granny Autumn and the kids will be making a stop at the fire station at noon for a “Firefighter Challenge” and live demo after which they will continue on with the games at local businesses. For lunch, grab a bowl of chili or a hot dog served by the Boulder Junction Lioness and for dessert bite into a fresh hand-dipped caramel apple from the Boulder Junction Chamber booth or stop by the North Lakeland School 8th grade class baked sale for a fresh baked fall treat.

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Ashland County

BOURGO RD

Map was created by:

WANNEBO RD

BETWEEN WANNEBO RD AND OLSEN RD USE LAKE SHORE DR

LAKE SHORE DR

ONDOSSAGON RD

SKY RD

S BAYFIELD ST

MCKINLEY RD

PRIEST RD

CHURCH CORNER RD

¬ 1 inch = 0.86 miles

NEVERS RD

MEMORIAL PARK TRAILHEAD

BJORK RD

VIATER RD

ENGOE RD

WEDAL RD

OLSEN RD

BONO CREEK RD

NOLANDER RD

BETWEEN OLSEN RD AND BONO CREEK RD

FOLLOW FLOW OF TRAFFIC, USE RIGHT SHOULDER OF HWY 13, MAKE A COMPLETE STOP, WATCH FOR TRAFFIC AND USE CAUTION

MASHLAN RD

SIG EID RD

ST AT E

N LUTKIE RD

COZY CORNER RD

Lake Superior

LUTKIE RD

E CO. HWY. A

SUMMIT ROAD

Printed maps are available at local area businesses as well as at the Washburn and Ashland chambers of commerce. The map is also available online at northcoastcycling.com or Northcoastcycling Facebook page.

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BINSFIELD RD

FARM RD

MAPLE LN

E AV

SANBORN AVE TRAILHEAD

E AV

T 18

H 5T

TH 13

LIS

112

S T of Ashland ST City H TH

T 11

SANBORN AVE

E AV

ILL IG ER R D

TERW

E AV

ONDOSSAGON RD

E AV

H T 11

ILL

E AV

H 8T

KNIGHT RD

LINDBLAD RD

STATE HWY 137

The trail is marked with small signs displaying a green biker/hiker symbol. It is mowed and maintained, but not paved or surfaced. Mountain bikes and fat tire bikes are recommended for traveling on the trail. There will be areas of mud and wet ground so travel with care. The trail will always welcome hikers as well.

H 7T

JUNCTION RD

E AV

BETWEEN TORKKO RD AND ASHLAND, TRAIL FOLLOWS TRI-COUNTY CORRIDOR

H 5T

H 6T

E AV

D 3R

E AV

H 5T

D 3R

R FIO

N AI

D 3R

N AI

D 3R

COUNTY HWY G

E ONDOSSAGON RD

T 12

CHERRYVILLE RD

N 22

PIT

The trail is about 14 miles in length from trailhead to trailhead. The Ashland trailhead is located on the Tri-County Corridor at its intersection with Sanborn Avenue. The Washburn trailhead is located near the entrance to Memorial Park.

City of Washburn

T 14

ASHLAND – A new hike/ bike trail has opened linking the cities of Washburn in Bayfield County with Ashland in Ashland County.

Roadway Public Land

This map does not substitute for an accurate field survey.

TORKKO RD

Ashland/ Washburn bike trail now open

Bike Trail Use Caution Along Highway

LUCIA RD

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Washburn - Ashland Bike Trail

Calendar

Oct. 14-15 Ashland – WhistleStop Marathon & Half Marathon: 800-2849484 or whistlestopmarathon. com. Oct. 22 Madeline Island – Madeline Island Fall Festival: 715-747-2801. Nov. 5 Ashland: Chickuamegon Women’s 5K/10K Run/Walk & Bike Race: Bay Area Civic Center. 715682-2500 or chick-uamegon. com.

wisconsin HUNTING

Near record numbers of ducks reported in spring

MADISON - A near record numbers of ducks reported in spring, coupled with average breeding conditions and wet summer weather have set the stage for strong fall waterfowl hunting as the North Zone duck season.

“Although conditions were average to dry this spring, Wisconsin has seen abundant rainfall for most of the summer and even into early fall,” said DNR assistant migratory game bird ecologist Taylor Finger. “Waterfowl hunters should have the potential for a good hunting season - continental breeding surveys spanning 61 years reported a near record numbers of ducks this spring.” The 2016 North Zone duck season runs from Sept. 24 to Nov. 22. The daily bag limit statewide is six ducks, including no more than:

wisconsin

HUNTING

four mallards, of which only one may be a hen; one blackduck; two canvasbacks; three wood ducks; two pintails; three scaup; and two redheads. Five mergansers may be harvested daily, of which no more than two may be hooded mergansers; 15 coot may be harvested daily. For 2016, the possession limit remains three times the daily bag limit. Many of the ducks harvested in Wisconsin are produced from locally nesting ducks breeding in the state’s wetlands. According to Finger, mallards, wood ducks, green-winged teal and bluewinged teal are the four most abundant ducks in Wisconsin’s fall hunting harvest. “Even with excellent continental breeding indications, local water levels and scouting will are most important factors when pursuing ducks this fall,” said Finger. “Hunter survey data in Wisconsin show that duck hunters who scouted three or more times harvested on average 3-4 times as many ducks per season as those who did not scout.”

As a result of regulatory changes in 2016, hunters can now legally hunt in open water as long as part of their boat, blind or similar device is located within three feet of the shoreline, including islands. This change eliminates the concealment requirement so long as the boat or blind is within three feet of any shoreline. “This regulatory change will open up countless opportunities throughout the state, especially where the water levels fluctuate throughout the year and where vegetation was not always available for concealment,” said DNR assistant waterfowl ecologist Taylor Finger. Licenses and stamps required for duck hunting include a Wisconsin small game license, a Wisconsin waterfowl stamp, and a federal migratory bird stamp. The federal duck stamp will now cost $25 (an increase from $15) - a change supported by waterfowl hunters nationwide. While there has not been an increase in the federal waterfowl stamp since the 1990s, this $10 increase will help protect additional upland and wetland waterfowl habitat. The federal migratory bird stamp can be purchased at a U.S. Post Office. Hunters will also be given the option to purchase the federal stamp privilege at DNR license vendors for an additional $2.50 surcharge. The purchase will be noted on their license, and the stamp itself will arrive later in the mail. Waterfowl and other migratory bird hunters must also register each year with the federal Harvest Information Program, which places them on a list of hunters that may receive a mailing asking them to provide a summary of their harvest. HIP registration is free and can be done at the time hunters purchase their licenses, but can always be added later on if a hunter decides they may pursue migratory game birds. State licenses and stamps, permits, and HIP registration are also available online through Go Wild. For more information regarding waterfowl hunting in Wisconsin, visit the DNR website, dnr.wi.gov, and search keyword “waterfowl.”

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wisconsin HUNTING Wisconsin Hunting Season dates

Optimism – with caution -- for better deer hunt in Northern District By Mike Zeckmeister DNR Northern District wildlife supervisor An extremely mild winter in 2015-16 and an early spring green-up in 2016 will have a big impact on deer populations across northern Wisconsin. Conditions during the winter of 2014-15 were much milder compared to the very severe winter we experienced in 2013-14. Winter health assessments conducted during late winter and early spring reinforce what we already suspected: body conditions of these deer were in good shape and there was good productivity of does. We had several cases of doe fawns (born in 2015) carrying fawns.

The crossbow/archery season runs September 17, 2016 -- January 8, 2017 Hunters are reminded to purchase a crossbow license or archer/crossbow upgrade to hunt with a crossbow. Gun deer hunt for hunters with disabilities season runs October 1-9.

Although this is more common in southern Wisconsin, it is more significant for northern Wisconsin.

The youth gun season runs October 8-9.

All of these factors add up to good news for the Northern Forest Deer Management Zone. Researchers and local wildlife managers expect fawn recruitment to be very good.

The traditional 9-day gun deer season starts the Saturday before Thanksgiving. Season runs November 19-27

This is good news for those counties where we have had zero or very low quotas the past few years in an attempt to rebuild the deer herd. However, hunters can expect that this re-building will still take some time -- especially in northern tier counties. Likewise, we should see excellent antler development due to the milder winter. Conservative quotas in much of the north, as recommended by the County Deer Advisory Councils, should spell increased deer numbers in Northern Wisconsin. It will, however, take several years to get over the 2013-14 very severe winter from a deer age structure perspective. Lower deer numbers should allow a few years of much-needed relief on forest communities that deer rely on. As always, the best way to prepare deer for the upcoming winter is to thin the herd and to create good browse through wise forest management. According to Joe Weiss, Washburn County CDAC Chair, “I am encouraged by the number of young deer I (saw) this summer and despite the opinion that shooting does is not popular, it does seem to be warranted in many areas. We are hoping that our predictions for herd growth are proven right this fall.”

The muzzleloader season runs 10 days immediately following the 9-day gun season. Season runs November 28 -- December 7. The statewide December 4-day antlerless-only hunt is once again an annual component of the season framework. Season runs December 8-11. During this season, all deer hunters may only harvest antlerless deer; buck harvest is not allowed.

DNR asks for hunters to record their wildlife observations MADISON -- With the 2016 deer hunting season underway, the Department of Natural Resources is kicking off its eighth annual Deer Hunter Wildlife Survey, an easy-to-do survey where hunters can record their observations of deer and other wildlife while out hunting. Survey results help track population trends for Wisconsin’s deer herd and other wildlife.

At the end of each year, participants will receive a personalized summary of all recorded wildlife from that season. Participants can access the survey by going to the DNR website, dnr.wi.gov, and searching keyword “Deer Hunter Wildlife.” Tally sheets can be filled out either electronically or printed from the site. The survey period ends January 2016

The DNR asks hunters to record all of their hunting activity throughout the deer season, even if no wildlife sightings were made during a hunt. The observations provide the DNR with an index to abundance for many wildlife species.

Hunters can also send in their trail camera photos. The Trail Camera Gallery can be accessed through the Deer Hunter Wildlife Survey webpage. Check back often as the site is updated as soon as new photos are sent in.

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Barron County Calendar

Oct. 7-8 Rice Lake – Gun Show: Barron Co. Fairgrounds. Oct. 8 Rice Lake – Kids and Cows: Barron Co Fairgrounds. Oct. 12 Rice Lake – Wine & Beer Festival: 7-9:30pm, UW-Barron County gym. Oct. 15 Chetek – Bluegrass Jam: Oct. 27 Rice Lake – Rotary Rose Day: Cedar Mall Nov. 4-6 Rice Lake – WI Indianhead Country Arts & Craft Show: Cedar Mall Nov. 19 Rice Lake – Holiday Bazaar: 10am to 4pm, Cedar Mall Nov. 25 Rice Lake – Wake Up Santa: Cedar Mall Nov. 26-27 Rice Lake -- Visit Santa: Cedar Mall. Dec. 1 Rice Lake – Holiday Parade: 6:30pm, Main Street Dec. 2 Rice Lake – Angel Ball: “The Dean’s List” Dec. 3 Rice Lake – Breakfast with Santa: Cedar Mall Dec. 10 Rice Lake – Season Finale Craft Show: Cedar Mall

Wine & Beer Festival features over 100 wine and beer samples RICE LAKE – The Rice Lake Area Men’s Club’s Wine & Beer Festival on Wednesday, Oct. 12 with over 100 wine and beers to sample is the area’s oldest and largest such event. All proceeds will go to support youth activities and programs. The event will take place 7-9pm at the UW-Barron County campus, 1800 College Dr., Rice Lake. There will be door prizes, over 150 raffle prizes including a $1,000 prize and ladies style and comfort package, cheese and hors d’oeuvres. Admission is limited to 500 with tickets available at the door, Marketplace Foods, Village Deli & Wine Shop and on-line at ricelakemens.club.com.

Bike Cumberland for fall fun

CUMBERLAND – Cyclists will find a mixture of terrain in Barron County: long stretches of flat road that glide past thriving farms with Holsteins grazing in alfalfa fields, as well as long hills that take the rider past woodlots characterized by sugar maples and hearty oak trees and sparkling blue lakes. Villages and small cities along the way are oasis of food, refreshments and rest. Among the cities you’ll enjoy is Cumberland, the starting point of four rural bicycle routes varying in length from 12 miles to 31 miles. Known as the Island City, Cumberland is nestled in the gorgeous lake country of northwestern Wisconsin. All four bike routes skirt lakes (there are 50 lakes within 10 miles of Cumberland).

Stop at the local chamber of commerce office and pick up the

“Bike Cumberland” map that outlines the four routes: Beaver Dam Lake Loop, 12 miles; Sand Lake Loop, 20 miles; Vermillion-Barronett route, 30 miles; and the Staples-Loon Lakes route, 31 miles. All the routes follow well-paved roads with little traffic. The city of Cumberland has all the supplies you will need for your trip. Carry a repair kit, adequate water and food supplies, as there are long distances between communities. There are also five suggested bike routes within the city, all family friendly of short distances from 1.3 to 3.5 miles in length.

Vehicle parking available at the Cumberland Tourist Park/Beach where all trips originate. Additional parking at the municipal parking lot on Main Street.

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Bayfield County

Calendar

Bayfield Trail takes hikers past old copper mines BRULE -- The Historic Bayfield Road Hiking & Snowshoeing Trail is located three miles north of Hwy. 2 on Clevedon Road. Located within the Brule River State Forest, the 2.3-mile trail is also popular with snowshoers when the landscape turns white.

About a half mile from the parking lot, there’s a rock rise to the north (left). At the top and surrounded by a fence, is the old Percival Mine. The fence is there for a purpose: to keep you out and safe.

The trail travels eastward down a hill past some old copper mine sites, and then climbs a scenic ridge to pass near the Clevedon fire tower. (The ladder to the fire tower, however, is off limits and you could be cited if you ignore the warning.) The trail then continues south and loops back to the parking lot.

Further down the trail, shortly after the bridge and on the left is the foundation of the quarters the miners used in the 1870s. Continue your trip, turn left and up a steep grade. The current trail leaves the route the Bayfield Road used in the 1800s. It’s believed that two taverns used to exist at this crossing.

Tap into the ‘Fun in the Forest’ ATV ride

CABLE – Ride the award-winning trails in the Cable and Hayward areas during the newly renamed ATV Christmas Benefit, formerly known as the Toys 4 Tots ATV Ride. The event will start at 9am Saturday, Oct. 22 from the Lakewoods Resort, just east of Cable.

There will be stops at sponsoring businesses (entry for special prize drawing) and a complimentary lunch at participating restaurants. There will be trail stops for rider skill challenges and an open house invite at both Hayward Power Sports and Runamuk Rides.

The event supports individuals and families in Sawyer, Bayfield and Ashland counties over the holidays. The cost of the daylong outing for riders is $10, plus an unwrapped gift or food donation valued at $10.

Later that night, there’s an hors d’oeuvres party from 6-8pm with a 7pm door prize drawing at Lakewoods Resort. For more details, call 715-794-2561 or e-mail info@LakewoodsResort.com

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Oct. 7-9 Bayfield – Bayfield Apple Festival: Oct. 22 Namekagon – Fun in the Forest ATV Ride: Lakewoods Resort. Dec. 3-4 Cable – Christmas in Cable Weekend: Downtown. Arts and crafts fair, breakfast with Santa.

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Burnett County Calendar

Oct. 8 Grantsburg – Crex Fall Wildlife Fest: Crex Wildlife Center. 10am to sunset. Various events, including kids activity classroom and crane tour. Oct. 8 Webster – Chili Cookoff & Sportman’s Raffle: 6-9pm, Jackson Fire Hall. Sponsored by the Jackson firefighters. Chili judging, awards and raffle. Oct. 8-9 Siren – Fiber Art Show & Sale: BAAG Art Center. Oct. 8-9 Webster – Quilt Show: 10am to 4pm, Webster High School. Quilts, raffle, silent auction, demonstration and special exhibit. Oct. 15 Grantsburg – Fall Deer Fest: Crex Meadows Wildlife Area. Oct. 21-22 Webster – Fall Fest: Voyager Village Oct. 29 Grantsburg – Howl-OWeen: Crex Meadows Wildlife Area. Nov. 10-13 Danbury – Scrapbooking & Stamping Weekend: Luther Park Camping & Retreat Center. Nov. 18-19 Siren – Holiday Arts Alive on 35: BAAG Art Center. Nov. 19 Alpha – Ladies Day Out: Burnett Dairy. Nov. 19 Danbury – Hunter’s Supper & Bake Sale: Swiss town hall. Nov. 26 Siren – Christmas in Siren: Dec. 3-4 Danbury – Christmas at The Forts: Forts Folle Avoine Historical Park, theforts.org. Dec. 3 Grantsburg – Santa Day: Dec. 10 Webster – Santa Day: Dec. 10 Danbury – Christmas at The Forts: Forts Folle Avoine Historial park, theforts.org.

Fall Wildlife Festival features sandhill crane migration GRANTSBURG – Hundreds of people are expected to attend the 34th annual Fall Wildlife Festival on Saturday, Oct. 8 at the Crex Meadows Wildlife Education & Visitor Center near Grantsburg. Thousands of sandhill cranes fly through this state wildlife area during fall migration. The event features food, children’s activities, exhibitors, guest speakers and live animals (turtles and snakes). It concludes with an evening – pre-registration only – tour to watch the sandhill cranes fly in from their daytime feeding grounds to their nightly roosting grounds. The schedule at the Crex Meadows Wildlife Education and Visitor Center is as follows: Kids Activity Classroom: 10am to noon. Totally Turtles Talk: 10-11am. Fundraiser Concessions: 11am to 2pm. Snake Lady: noon to 1pm. Mushroom Walk & Talk: 1-2pm. Bus Crane Tour: 5pm to sunset. Can’t make the Oct. 8 crane tours? There will be more opportunities on Oct. 15 & 22 for “Sunset with the Sandhills” Crex tours led by expert birder volunteers and the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources staff. Meet at the Visitor Center and then car-pool through the state wildlife area. Pre-registration is required, with a $5 fee. Limited to 20 participants; the first 10 may reserve space in the van. To make reservations or learn more about these events, contact Kristina Pupak, DNR wildlife conservation educator, at 715-463-2739. For more information, visit crexmeadows.org. Crex Meadows Center is located at 102 E. Crex Avenue, Grantsburg.

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Burnett County has 50 miles of summer ATV/UTV trails, approximately 80 miles of frozen ground ATV/UTV trails and 120 miles of winter ATV/UTV trails. Additional miles of ATV/UTV routes provide trail connections to Douglas and Washburn counties, as well as to Pine County, Minnesota. For the fall of 2016: From Sept. 16 through Nov. 30, the Burnett County Forest woods trails and forest roads are open for ATV/ UTV use. What this means is that you can ride your registered ATV/UTV on any woods trail, snowmobile trail, and ATV trail that is located on County Forest Lands as long as it is not bermed, gated, or signed as closed and is at least eight feet wide. ATVs/UTVs are not allowed on the Gandy Dancer Trail except from December 1st through March 31st once trails are officially open; then ATVs/UTVs may ride from Tewalt Road, (which is just south of Siren), and continue north. If there is no snow, and once the frozen ground trail system is open, this same section is open for ATV/UTV use.

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Burnett County welcomes ATV/UTV enthusiasts

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‘Christmas at the Forts’ starts the magic DANBURY – The Burnett County Historical Society is throwing an early Christmas party and you are invited! Forts Folle Avoine Historical Park near Danbury is unwrapping three, daylong opportunities for you and the kids to have a memorable “Christmas at the Forts” experience.

“Christmas at the Forts” will be Saturday, Dec. 3 -- 11am to 6pm, Sunday, Dec. 4 -- 11am to 4pm and again Saturday, Dec. 10 --11am to 6pm. Admission is free. You can get some early Christmas shopping done, entertain outof-town guests, or grab friends for a getaway (plenty of lodging and restaurants nearby, but don’t forget there’s food at this event also). They’ve drawn up a checklist of activities sure to please everyone, no matter the age. Horse-drawn sleigh rides at a reasonable fee A North Pole visit from Santa and Mrs. Claus Live holiday music performed by local musicians Storytelling by Angelique Affordable shopping -- for children only -- at the Elves’ Store Home-cooked wild rice soup or chili, hot dogs, popcorn, beverages for purchase Unique books and gifts for purchase in the gift shop Hundreds of items on the silent auction (ends Dec. 4 at 2pm) The grounds will be decorated in the Christmas spirit, including thousands of colorful lights. The North West and XY trading posts, and the Ojibwe Village constructed at Forts Folle Avoine are accurate depictions reflecting the close relationship that existed between the European fur traders and their Ojibwe trading partners who operated here between 1802 and 1805. The Historic Park is located on County Road U, 3 miles west of State Road 35 midway between Webster and Danbury. Call 715866-8890 or visit theforts.org for more information.

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Polk County

Calendar

Light from a colored spotlight turns Cascade Falls romantic blue during the evening hours.

Osceola Bluff, Cascade Falls are twin attractions in Osceola OSCEOLA -- For thousands of years, a limestone bluff (Osceola Bluff) that overlooks the St. Croix National Scenic Riverway has been an area landmark. Chippewa Indians camped here along the “ginseng trail” that stretched from Balsam Lake in Polk County to New Richmond in St. Croix County. The bluff is a resting place for resident bald eagles. White-tail deer walk its trails. Hepaticas, dogtooth violets and trillium grow in profusion. Today the bluff is owned by the Village of Osceola. You can hike to the top of the bluff, which rises 300 feet above the river. The trailhead can be found behind the Cascade BP. Park on Depot Road. The trail is gated against motor vehicle traffic; walk up the hill to find the trailhead. The trail is approximately 0.7 mile in length and goes through a hardwood forest. Spectacular views of St. Croix River and downtown Osceola, especially during fall leaf colors. Another natural attraction right in downtown Osceola is Cascade Falls, created by the drop of Osceola Creek some 25 feet. During evening hours the waterfalls is bathed in alternate colors of red, blue and yellow from spotlights on the bridge. The falls was a stop for excursion steamboats in the late 1880s, according to a historical marker at the site. A set of stairs on the main road (Hwy. 35) takes you into Wilke Glen, which is the base of the falls. You can walk up and touch the water falling from up above. Follow the trail along the Osceola Creek to the St. Croix River. Bring a fishing pole and be sure to have a trout stamp on your license if you want to fish for trout in Mill Pond or upstream above Mill Pond, which is on the opposite side of the highway from Cascade Falls.

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Photo: Dean S. Acheson

Oct. 7-8 Turtle Lake -- Turtle Lake Fire District Gun Show: Oct. 8 Luck -- Gandy Dancer Marathon (Full & Half): Oct. 8 Milltown -- Pumpkin Festival: Oct. 8 Amery -- Fall Color Bike Ride: Stower Seven Lakes Trail Oct. 8 Webster -- Mixed Sampler Quilt Guild: Webster High School 10am-4pm Oct. 16 Turtle Lake -- Toy Tractor Show: Oct. 16 Clayton -- Lutefisk Dinner: Moe Church Oct. 29 Amery -- Halloween Fun: Soo Line Park & townwide Oct. 31 St Croix Falls -- Tricks-NTreats for Tots: Downtown Nov. 5 Balsam Lake -- Polk County Homemakers Fair: 10am to 2pm, Unity High School Nov. 12 Turtle Lake -- American Legion Vet’s Dance: Nov. 12 Cushing -- Cushing Fire Dept. Venison Feed: Community Center Nov. 12 Osceola -- Lutefisk Dinner: 11am-7pm, West Immanuel Lutheran Church Nov. 19 Wolf Creek -- Chili Supper: United Methodist Church Nov. 19 Frederic -- St. Dominic’s Church Fall Bazaar Nov. 22 Amery -- Light up the Park/ Parade & Chili Feed: Soo Line Park Nov. 25-27 Luck Holiday Art Sale: Café Wren Dec. 2-4 Luck -- Holiday Art Sale: Café Wren Dec. 3 Clear Lake -- Holiday Stroll: Dec. 3 Frederic -- Christmas in Frederic-Santa: Frederic Library Dec. 3 Luck -- Luck Holiday Experience: Dec. 3 Turtle Lake -- Chamber Christmas: Dec. 3 Centuria -- Cozy Country Christmas: Dec. 3-4 St Croix Falls -- Rivertown Holiday: Dec. 3-31 Turtle Lake -- Christmas Lights in the Park: Dec. 4 Amery -- Holiday Stroll: Dec. 17 Frederic -- Christmas in Frederic-Sleigh Rides: Larson Auto

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Sawyer County Calendar

Oct. 6-8 Hayward – Treeland Premier Musky Fly Fishing Championships: treelandresorts. Oct. 8 Hayward – Snowmobile Vintage Show & Swap Meet: 8am to 2pm, Flat Creek Inn & Suites. 715638-2563. Oct. 20 Hayward – Hayward Gourmet Wine Tasting: 715-634-8662. Oct. 29 Hayward – Quadlooza ATV Rally & Poker Run: Amundson’s Park Island Resort. 715-492-5986. Nov. 19 Stone Lake – Hunter’s Chili Feed: 4-7pm. Food, silent auction, raffle, cake walk. Nov. 26 Winter – Homespun Holidays Arts & Craft Show: Winter School. Cookie walk at First Presbyterian Church. Dec. 7 Hayward – Festival of Trees: Dec. 17 Hayward – Christmas Bird Count: Includes Sawyer County. 715-7983890.

Visit the Vintage & Antique Snowmobile Show HAYWARD – Whether you remembering riding them as a teenager or admire them through your dad’s (or grandpa’s) eyes, collecting vintage and antique snowmobiles is growing in popularity. Some ride them; some show them; many do both! The Northwest Relic Riders Snowmobile Club is hosting its eighth annual “Just for Fun” Vintage & Antique Snowmobile

Show & Swap Meet on Saturday, Oct. 8 at Flat Creek Inn & Suites. Entry fee is $5 per sled with a maximum of $20. Registration starts at 8am with judging at noon and trophy presentation at 2pm. They plan to give away 45 trophies in 23 classes including two new ones -- first place each for Restored and Original in the “Department Store Classes” (think Sears, Montgomery Wards). There will be food and drink discounts, vintage trivia, snowmobile patch display, Sawyer County snowmobile-pulled drag (1975 purchase) on display, swap meet, raffles, two vintage trailer classes, pull start competition, DJ music and more. If you need more details, give a call to Tom Lloyd at 715-6382563 or Bruce McMilln at 715-462-4566. Flat Inn is located on Hwy. 27 S. For the calendar: the club’s “Kick-off ride” will be Dec. 17 at 10am, Pair O’ Lakes Lodge, Spooner. The drawing for the club raffle sled takes place then, along with the “Casey Loop Ride” following the meeting.

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Hayward becomes magical with A ‘Lure’ of Lights HAYWARD – Those shopping the quaint and interesting shops of downtown Hayward are in for a treat again this holiday season. The sixth annual A ‘Lure’ of Lights will transform the storefronts into a magical light show combining old world charm with modern technology and making this a “can’t miss” family outing. Take a drive downtown Hayward and you will be in complete awe – especially if this is the first time viewing them. Even veteran viewers will find themselves wandering the street, turning this way and that way as they take in the evening light show. The thousands of lights (eco-friendly LEDs) are turned on at dusk every Friday and Saturday night from Nov. 25 until Dec. 31. Many of the lights are synchronized to holiday music. There are also

light shows at Shue’s Pond every Friday and Saturday at 6:30pm. The local merchants offer holiday and in-store events daily in conjunction with A “Lure” of Lights. There are also other weekend events, parades, restaurant and lodging specials, Santa appearances, caroling, hot chocolate, live entertainment and contests that draw visitors to the area to experience the true beauty of the Hayward as a destination. To get a feel of what the dedicated volunteers of the non-profit organization have accomplished with A “Lure” of Lights, visit alureoflights.com. Updates of events and specials will also be posted there.

Shop the ‘Homespun Holidays’ Arts & Crafts Show WINTER – Good, old-time holiday fun and shopping will be found at the Winter Area Chamber of Commerce’s 30th annual Homespun Holiday Arts and Craft Show on Saturday, Nov. 26, at the Winter School. The Main Street show, with hours from 9am to 3pm, is one of the largest indoor craft shows in northwestern Wisconsin. Each year features something new, along with many favorite vendors returning also. More than 90 artisans offer a wide array of items including wood décor, wrought iron, candles, handcrafted soaps, stained glass, jewelry, furniture, photography, holiday items, ceramics, cutlery, baked goods, clothing and more. The Winter High School Band will offer breakfast and lunch in the commons area. The WHS choir will provide babysitting services for shoppers (donations appreciated). Next door, the Winter First Presbyterian Church will be tempt visitors with its annual Cookie Walk during the same hours as Homespun Holidays.

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HAYWARD – Treeland Resorts in Hayward is offering fishermen an ultimate freshwater challenge – catch a muskie on a fly rod. And, this wouldn’t be Wisconsin fishing without some fun competition and bragging rights thrown in. The inaugural Treeland Premier Musky Fly Fishing Championships will be Thursday-Saturday, Oct. 6-8. It’s one of only three muskie fly-fishing tournaments in the entire Untied States! There is a fly-casting contest Thursday afternoon; tournament fishing takes place Friday and Saturday. Cast away any doubts that 20 and 30-plus pound muskies can’t be caught on a fly rod, especially if you’re thinking a damsel fly on a light line. Fly fishermen have caught – and landed – this premier

Wisconsin fish with a presentation that wary muskies haven’t seen before and many fall for it. Today’s graphite rods allow you to cast all day long without surrendering to fatigue. Entry fee is $150 per person. Included in the entry fee are daily door prizes all three nights, one grand daily door prize all three nights, 3 Legend X Fly Rods donated by St. Croix Rods each night, dinner and Angry Minnow tap beer all three nights. Competition can be either individual or team, with 3-person maximum on teams. Team prizes go to first through third places. Individual prize awarded for largest muskie. More information is available at Treelandresorts.com or call 715-462-3874.

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Treeland to host Musky Fly Fishing Championships

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Washburn County Calendar

Oct. 7-8 Spooner – Art Meander: Self-guided tours of studies and galleries along Hwys. 53 & 63. Art-meander.com. Oct. 8 Spooner – Jack O’ Lantern Festival & 5k Zombie Run: 8am to 10 pm, downtown. Oct. 15 Shell Lake – Oktoberfest: 6-11pm, Shell Lake Arts Center. Music, raffle, silent

auction, food. Oct. 21-22 Shell Lake – Haunted Schoolhouse: 6-10pm. Nov. 19-Dec. 17 Spooner – Santa’s Pizza Party Train Ride: Every Saturday, 11am & 2pm, Trego depot. 715-635-3200. Dec. 17 Spooner – NW Relic Riders Snowmobile “Kickoff Ride: 10am, Pair O’ Lakes Lodge.

Check out the Washburn County ATV Scenic Tour

Washburn County has a fun new way to explore the area ATV trails. The Washburn County ATV Scenic Tour is now available for ATV/UTV enthusiasts to learn about over 35 points of interest located along the extensive ATV system. If you have ever been riding on a trail and wondered what river you were passing by or what the giant fish along the trail represented, you’re in luck! The new tour highlights the Namekagon River (part of the St. Croix National Scenic Riverway), natural points of interest, quirky landmarks and historical sites such as an old homestead where remnants of the original buildings still stand. Washburn County’s trail system is one of the premier trail systems in the state of Wisconsin. More than one hundred miles of trails connect to surrounding counties, making it one of the largest trail systems anywhere.

The majority of the trail system is located on county forestland, managed by the Washburn County Forestry Department. Volunteers from three local clubs maintain the trail system: Minong Trails Club, Rolling Hills ATV & Snowmobile Club and the Birchwood Bobcats. All of Washburn County’s ATV trails are also UTV friendly and welcome side by sides up to 65 inches wide. The many amenities along the trail include picnic areas, shelters and businesses to welcome you. ATV trail conditions can be found on the Washburn County Tourism website and are updated on a daily basis or as needed. ATV trails open the Saturday of Memorial Day weekend and stay open through the fall when the snowmobile and winter use trails open. Fall is an especially enjoyable time to explore the area trails and take in the breathtaking fall colors.

Savor Oktoberfest at Shell Lake

SHELL LAKE – Stay in the middle of fun with a trip to visit the annual Oktoberfest celebration in Shell Lake on Saturday, Oct. 15. Sponsored by the Shell Lake Chamber of Commerce and the Shell Lake Arts Center, Oktoberfest will be 6-11pm at the Shell Lake Arts Center’s Darrell Aderman Auditorium in Shell Lake. Tickets are $10 at the door.

Lots of delicious food and beverage samples, with nods to the local Bavarian and German heritage, will be offered by local businesses. Live music will be heard throughout the event. There will be raffles and silent auctions with prizes and items to bid on. Proceeds from this event go to support the Shell Lake Chamber of Commerce and the Shell Lake Arts Center, 802 First Street.

Haunted Schoolhouse Like detention, the screams never end

SHELL LAKE – What happens to the students and the teachers when an old high school shuts down? They stay there, of course, to haunt the victims who dare to enter! Find out more in person when The Haunted Schoolhouse opens its doors Friday, Oct. 21 and Saturday, Oct. 22. The less spooky hours for the younger set are 6-8pm. For a real screamer, enter between 8pm and 10pm. The Haunted Schoolhouse is located at

the Shell Lake Arts Center, 802 First Street, Shell Lake.

The Haunted Schoolhouse features a haunted school forest, butcher block, and classrooms that will terrify you! The organizers strive to bring new attractions each year to keep the screams going. Cost for one trip through the Haunted Schoolhouse is $5 per head -- or headless – visitor. For more information call 715468-2414.

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U.P. michigan

‘Michigan’s Trailhead’ Come to where the snow is always great

WESTERN U.P. – The Western U.P. of Michigan – “Michigan’s Trailhead” -- is renowned for its lake effect snow that blankets the ski resorts each winter season. The Western U.P. averages 17 feet of pristine snowfall each season, living up to its “Big Snow Country” reputation!

elaborate ice shanty boasting all the comforts of home. With proper clothing and equipment, knowing the condition of the ice and following safety precautions, ice fishing can be a fun and rewarding experience.

However you want to mix it up – downhill skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, tubing, cross-country skiing, ice fishing, snowmobiling, nightlife – Big Snow Country offer visitors a multitude of recreational pursuits, entertainment and great dining spots.

The Western U.P. is a hunter’s paradise. Whitetail deer, black bear and grouse hunting are all popular in the forests. Hunting for other small game and waterfowl as well as fur bearing trapping are also excellent in the Western U.P. The many guide services available will make sure your hunt is successful and fun. Many of the resorts in the Lake Gogebic and Watersmeet area are your full service base camp for a great hunting experience.

Ice fishing Western Upper Michigan is well known for its excellent ice fishing. Whether you’re looking to hook walleye, perch, whitefish, bass, lake trout, northern pike or a variety of panfish – the Western U.P. has got you covered even during the winter months. In fact, some experienced anglers say that winter is the best time to fish, because with the warm weather gone, so are the weeds. An ice fishing excursion can be as simple as drilling a hole in the ice and dropping in a line while perched on an overturned bucket. Or it can be an all-day outing complete with an

Hunting in the Western U.P.

Snowshoeing The area offers nearly 100 km of trails across various snowshoeing terrain, some winding along roaring rivers and most through pristine wilderness. ABR – Offers 10 km of snowshoeing with rentals available. Friends of the Miners Memorial Heritage Park – MMHP trailhead starts at the Ironwood High School baseball field off Ayer St. in Ironwood. The first loop is 1 mile in length; total trail

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Big Snow Country

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east of Ironwood. The trail is 2.1 miles in length is an advanced trail, as it’s very hilly with steep inclines and declines. Great snowmobiling

length is 2.6 miles of easy, groomed trail. It goes on the groomed cross-county tail so please stay off the set track of cross-country trail. There are also some single track snowshoe trails in the MMHP that are off the main trail these are more up and down with some steep parts. Michigan Welcome Center Snowshoe Loop – Michigan Information Center West end of Ironwood on U.S. Hwy. 2 is the trailhead for the cemetery trail system. The trail consists of 3 loops or one big loop: half mile, one mile & 1.5 miles. Trails are flat with some rolling hills but very easy to snowshoe for everyone. Indianhead Mountain – Offers over 2 km of snowshoeing on the mountaintop trail. Rentals available. Wakefield’s Sunday Lake – North side of lake has free trails. Wolverine Nordic Trails & Snowshoe –Trailhead for Wolverine snowshoe trail starts at Wolverine cross-country ski area north-

Each Western U.P. snowmobiling adventure is unique and exciting, as there are over 2,000 miles of groomed trails, unplowed logging roads and secluded National Forest trails throughout the area. Share the experience of a Western U.P. snowmobiling vacation with your family and friends. Rated #1 snowmobile destination by readers of American Snowmobiler. This is what snowmobiling is all about. Because when natural beauty, brilliant exhilaration and good times come together, the sensation is Pure Michigan. The winter’s heavy snowfall gives riders the very best conditions and trails. Downhill Skiing In one incredible ski vacation you can visit these downhill ski areas: Indianhead Mountain Resort – Big Powderhorn Mountain Resort -- Blackjack Ski Resort. Glide down over 125 trails at the ski resorts. Ride thousands of miles of groomed snowmobile trails. Let adventure guide you out into the wilderness on cross-country skis and snowshoes. When the sun has set, the fireplace lit, sit back and relax in the knowledge that tomorrow brings another day of fun. Indianhead Mountain Resort -- Vertical 638 ft / 30 Runs

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Blackjack Ski Resort - Vertical 465 ft / 26 Runs Blackjack’s commitment to “excellence” begins with excellent service. Their trail grooming, snowmaking and day chalet upgrades offer you the best value in family skiing fun. Two unique terrain parks entertain skiers and riders of every level. Pick a weekend and they have packed it with fun indoors and out. Big Powderhorn Mountain Resort- Vertical 622 ft / 33 Runs Combine 17 feet of average natural snowfall with incredible views of Upper Peninsula forests. Add a dash of renowned grooming, family friendly specials, and a down-home staff who treats you like family. Throw in a charming Bavarian style village with a complimentary shuttle and you have the makings for an unforgettable winter getaway. There are more than 250 skiable acres, multiple terrain parks and 10 lifts to get you on the top of your game. Enjoy live entertainment on select weekends. Cross-country skiing Western U.P. offers over 100 km of cross-country ski trails. Piston Bully groomed for skating and diagonal striding, and backcountry ski/snowshoe trails of varied terrain. ABR Trails -- 60 km of scenic cross-country ski trails. ABR Trails is a full service ski touring center located on over 1,100 scenic acres of varied terrain along the Montreal River in Ironwood. Facilities include a heated warming cabin with light concessions, full service ski shop, change rooms, indoor restrooms, and a large heated wax area with many wax benches. There is additional room for tables and chairs available for teams or groups to use.

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Indianhead Mountain Resort is a ski and snowboard resort offering 30 downhill skiing slopes. The village and resort facilities are located on top of the mountain overlooking the Ottawa National Forest. Indianhead boasts award-winning dining, lodging, live entertainment and full-service conference/banquet facilities. Readers of OntheSnow.com voted it Best Family Resort. Indianhead was also recognized as the Best Terrain in the Midwest. In combination with Blackjack, Indianhead offers skiers two resorts with one ticket – access to 56 trails, 3 terrain parks, 410 skiable acres and 15 lifts.

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MECCA, Montreal & Uller Ski Trails – Nearby in Mercer and Pence, WI. Sylvania Wilderness Trails – This is your winter outdoor headquarters for skijoring, cross-country skiing, winter hiking, or camping in the Watersmeet and Sylvania Wilderness areas. There is much to explore and experience in the Sylvania Wilderness Area of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. Sylvania Outfitters knows how to get you there…and back. The unique beauty of the winter season is truly unforgettable. The trails are carefully maintained so you can fully enjoy the winter adventures in these magnificent Northwoods. Mount Zion – Located on the campus of Gogebic Community College in Ironwood, Mt. Zion is the oldest winter recreation complex in “Big Snow Country”. Owned and operated by GCC, Mt. Zion is open to the public. This complex also serves as a laboratory for the college’s nationally recognized Ski Area Management Program. Wolverine Ski Trails – Wolverine Ski Trails in Ironwood is a non-profit, tax-exempt organization with the mission to preserve and promote Nordic skiing and life long physical fitness on the Gogebic Range of the Western Upper Peninsula of Michigan and

northeastern Wisconsin. Volunteers maintain and groom the trail system which consists of 8 trails that provide 25 kilometers of both skate skiing and track-set skiing. The rolling terrain provides trails for all levels of skiing from expert to novice. Sisu Ski Fest – Annual ski event with a “Finnish” in downtown Ironwood. Ski through historic mining areas, scenic bluffs, along the Montreal River and by the world’s tallest Native American statue. Commemorative SISU souvenirs for the first 500 races to sign up. Locally crafted age group awards. Traditional “Yooper” fare. Miner’s Ski Trail – 4.6km of cross country skiing in Ironwood. Lodging With lodging facilities offering more than 1,200 beds, you are sure to find accommodations to fit any taste and budget. Whether you prefer a hotel, motel, house rental, cozy cottage, a cabin or condo – or a resort with full amenities – look no further for your home away from home. For more information, contact Western U.P. Convention & Visitor Bureau, 405 N. Lake St., Ironwood, MI., or visit explorewesternup.com or call 906-932-4850.

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If you’re seeking the adventure of a picture perfect fall color journey, head up to Gogebic and Ontonagon counties in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. Combine your trip with stops at historical sites, and you have more than ample reason to find lodging and stay overnight! The autumn color in Michigan’s Western Peninsula offers some of the finest forest hues. Over 90 percent of the region is forest covered and in the fall, the colors explode. The colors are accented by the surroundings that carry them down root beer tinted water and float to soft forest floors. Most of the colors are brilliant reds, radiant yellows and a deep pumpkin orange. You’ll even spot russet oaks with hints of purple and brown. Visitors can also learn about the rich old mining and logging history in little towns that have survived even after the mines closed. Regarded as one of the best small town museums in the U.P., the Ontonagon County Historical Museum is located in the heart of historic Ontonagon’s downtown. The museum houses displays outlining the development of the region in mining, logging, agriculture and industry, with special emphasis on Ontonagon’s maritime history. The Rockland Historical Museum in Rockland is another interesting stop during your Colorama travels. It displays mining and farming equipment, stone hammers from ancient copper mining pits, a scale model of the historic Rockland depot, a section of the Victoria Dam wooden pipeline, the story of Michigan’s first telephone system which started in Rockland, and furnished

kitchen, dining room, parlor, and bedroom settings. Open through October. A relic of the copper-mining days is the town of Victoria, now called “Old Victoria.” It was built near the original site of the site of the famous Ontonagon Boulder. Like so many communities, Victoria lost its spark of life when the copper industry abandoned the area. But unlike other small, almost forgotten mining towns, Victoria is being brought back to life by a large restoration project aimed at recreating the mid-1800s community as it was in its peak. From Mt. Lookout you can also view the highest hydroelectric dam in the Midwest. The Victoria Lake Reservoir is just about a mile beyond the Old Victoria Historic Townsite. The West Branch of the Ontonagon River flows into the reservoir. The Old Victoria Restoration is located four miles west of Rockland in Ontonagon County. The road is clearly marked off US-45. Take time out to visit the area’s beautiful waterfalls that provide a nice backdrop to the fall colors. Some of the more popular and easy to find waterfalls are along the National Scenic Byway on Black River Road heading towards Lake Superior. The hike through hemlock stands and groves of maple and birch is well worth it. There’s a selection of five waterfalls to tour, Great Conglomerate, Potawatomi, Gorge, Sandstone and Rainbow Falls. The footpath to Great Conglomerate Falls, on the Black River, north of Big Powderhorn Ski area, past Copper Peak winds through an almost pure stand of sugar maple.

Stay a while longer in Iron County, MI No matter the season, there’s always a reason to stay longer in Iron County, MI. With opportunities for great hunting, downhill skiing, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, snow tubing, snowmobiling, ice fishing, or simply relaxing in a hot tub, you’ll be tempted to book another night’s stay. The beauty of the Northwoods has to be experienced in person: incredible panoramic views, clear night skies, magnificent

red and white pines that tower over the landscape, streams and brooks gurgling as the pristine water winds its way through the woods, and waterfalls straight out of a storybook. Iron County has places for the whole family to stay in Iron River, Crystal Falls and Amasa. Accommodations range from Iron River hotels, lakefront motels, lodging and resorts like Ski Brule Village.

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Fall colors in the U.P. with a historical view

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