Editor’s COLUMN It has been a beautiful—albeit unusual—summer here in the Northwoods. The forests and lakes have been a special salve to soothe our souls during these tumultuous times. And the weather has wonderful: warm but not oppressive, and just enough rain to make the leaves vibrantly green and provide an occasional excuse to hunker down in a cozy cabin.
igan). Or you can take your bicycle, motorcycle, or ATV/UTV, to explore the winding roads and trails at a faster clip. For those looking for a more relaxed pace, it’s also the perfect season for fishing on serene lakes, casually perusing crafts at harvest festivals, sipping cider at your favorite cafe, and warming your hands over a crackling bonfire under the starry skies.
But this week has brought a new crisp wind that is whispering, “Autumn is coming!” Some of the maples are already donning their finest red dresses, and before we know it, we’ll have a dazzling display of saffron, scarlet, and sienna in the forests all around us. We don’t want you to miss this!
In this issue, you’ll find information about natural attractions as well as events taking place throughout the season. Be sure to check the attractions’ and events’ websites before you go to make sure you are aware of any updates. Hours and events may be modified as the COVID-19 pandemic continues to evolve.
There are so many ways to soak in the beauty of the season during your next trip Up North. Hike our trails to admire the amazing vistas (such as at Copper Peak, Timm’s Hill, and the many waterfalls in northern Wisconsin and the Upper Peninsula of Mich-
Have a healthy and happy fall, Production & Editorial Manager
Inside this issue Front Cover.............................................................................................................................................Copper Peak Rollie & Helen’s Musky Shop..................................................................................................Inside Front Cover Stoney Creek Home & Garden ...............................................................................................................................3 Editor’s Column.................................................................................................................................................Page 4 Treeland Resorts...................................................................................................................................... Back Cover
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Accounting Jackie Blodgett Marketing Associate Al Hanley
Fall 2020 | UpNorthAction.com
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Map & INDEX
CENTRAL REGION - page 6 ‘Gateway to the North’ Covering the following county: Portage NORTHEAST REGION - page 10 Covering the following counties: Florence • Forest • Marinette Oconto • Menominee • Shawano
NORTHWEST REGION - page 28 Covering the following counties: Ashland • Bayfield • Douglas • Burnett Washburn • Sawyer • Rusk • Barron Polk • St. Croix • Dunn • Chippewa U.P. MICHIGAN REGION - page 36 Covering the following counties: Gogebic • Ontonagon • Houghton • Iron Dickinson • Menominee
NORTHCENTRAL REGION - page 14 Covering the following counties: Iron • Vilas • Price • Oneida • Lincoln Langlade • Taylor • Marathon
UpNorthAction.com | Fall 2020
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Portage County Schrader Connection Trail: Short but Sweet While visiting the Town of Plover, you’re never far from a trail for biking or walking. One of these is the “Schrader Connection,” a perfect companion for those wanting to do a short walk or those with smaller children. It’s flat and easy walking. It’s a new trail, having been opened in 2019 and named after Tom Schrader, the retired parks director for Stevens Point who was a tireless advocate for both this connection and the larger trails network. The Schrader Connection transformed a 1.7-mile stretch of a former Canadian National railroad line into a crushed-stone path that provides a shorter, pleasant route between two segments of the Green Circle Trail – the area’s crown jewel trail system – as well as a useful off-road route from the town of Whiting into southern Stevens Point.
The southern end of the trail in Whiting connects with the Paper Mill Trail segment of the Green Circle Trail, which forms the southern end of a nearly 30-mile loop around the area. The Schrader Connection heads north along the former rail corridor, passing through neighborhoods and newer subdivisions, and comes to an end at Bliss Avenue in Stevens Point, just a short block south from the River Pines Trail segment of the Green Circle Trail. Bikes that can handle the crushed-stone surface, as well as walkers and joggers, can take full advantage of this quicker off-road route that avoids having to follow the winding path of the Wisconsin River. On the northern end of the trail, parking is available at the Stevens Point Dog Park (601 Mason Street).
The Town of Plover is a unique township where residents enjoy a beautiful river and appreciate being part of a growing cosmopolitan area at the crossroads of major highways with hotels, shops, restaurants and parks, adjacent to an educational community, supported by highly accredited medical facilities. Visit our businesses and notice the wide variety of local enterprises we are proud of!
Northeast Central Region Region
Enjoy your visit!
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ALL TOWN ROADS ARE OPEN TO ATV/ UTV USAGE
TROUT
FISHIN
G
Town of Plover
5081 Hoover Avenue - South, Plover, WI 54467 Town Office: 715-344-7684 • www.townofplover.com townofplover@townofplover.com
Fall 2020 | UpNorthAction.com
G R E AT
SHING MUSKY FI
The
Gateway to ‘Up North’
Central Region UpNorthAction.com | Fall 2020
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Portage County
Limited Hours, Unlimited Enjoyment at Portage Center for the Arts PORTAGE – The exhibits at the Portage Center for the Arts (PCA) provide a welcome respite from the daily stresses in life. That’s especially so in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic. However, with the virus came restrictions governing access to the center located at 301 E. Cook St., Portage. The PCA board of directors has enacted guidelines for entrance. As of Sept. 9, open hours and capacity are limited as follows: temporary hours will be Wednesday through Friday from 1 to 5 p.m. Doors will remain locked, and you must call or ring the bell to be admitted. Only five people or one “family” group at a time will be allowed in the building. Masks will be required. This plan is subject to change at any time, as the situation continues to evolve. Check out the website portagecenterforthearts.com/covid19 for any updates. Or call 608-742-5655 for information.
Northeast Central Region Region
In the meantime, visitors and local residents are invited to view the “Barns & Beyond” art exhibit in the Drury Gallery from now through Sept. 26. The beautiful photographs of barns by Aaron Atkinson can also be found online at the above website.
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Fall 2020 | UpNorthAction.com
The
Gateway to ‘Up North’
A native of Portage, Atkinson became an auctioneer in 1989. In his travels throughout Wisconsin and Illinois, he has always admired the looks of old barns spread throughout the countryside. He started his photography as an avid cyclist around Columbia County, and then started biking all over the country and beyond! His photos are a moment in time that gives him a flashback of the good old days: a beautiful sunset or maybe a unique building that needs a little work. Coming in the month of October is the exhibit, “Animal Vegetable Sustainable,” featuring the works of Monica Jagel. She has a BFA degree and is a certified botanical illustrator. She works in her home studio and finds inspiration all around her farm in the beautiful Driftless Area of Wisconsin. Then, in November, stop by or go online to view the works of Ruthie McQuinn. The Wisconsin-based artist works primarily with pencils and acrylics to create unique custom art. McQuinn specializes in human and animal portraits, murals, and tattoo designs, as well as album and wall art.
Central Region UpNorthAction.com | Fall 2020
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Northeast Region Discover Two Gems in the Rough LAONA & MOUNTAIN – We’re calling these two autumn hikes “gems in the rough.” Sturdy hiking boots are advised, and watch your step.
Butler Rock (Butler Rock Lookout Lane, Mountain)
A hiking trail was developed in the Town of Brazeau to reach the
According to one online post, the first half of the (1/3-mile) trail is relatively flat, and you gain most of the almost 200 feet of elevation at the end. Make sure to make it to the summit, which is farther than the first two overlooks. Rock outcroppings are at the top, and it’s very secluded. To get there from Mountain, turn right onto Old 64 Road/Old Hwy. 64, take a sharp right onto Butler Rock Road, and turn left onto Butler Rock Lookout Lane.
Quartz Hill Trail (Highway 32 South, Laona) Discover the breathtaking Quartz Hill Trail located in the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest in Laona. This stunning trail cascades into two sections. One portion is located on the east side of State Highway 32, and the other portion is located on the west side. The east section leads across a boardwalk to the top of McCaslin Mountain. It has moderately steep sections, but the view from the top of this quartz rock outcrop is worth the climb. The prettiest time to explore the trail is in fall, when the brilliant fall colors will be visible on the surrounding hills from the overlook.
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county’s highest point, called Butler Rock. This two-mile sand trek is not for the faint-hearted, but the views are spectacular, especially during the fall colors.
As you take the pleasant walk through the northern hardwood forest, you will pass a quartz crystal deposit with an informational sign, which describes how early Native Americans came here to quarry quartz to create their tools. The west portion of this trail leads to the site of the Carter Fire Lookout Tower. Once used to spot forest fires, all that now remains are four concrete pilings. Use caution going to the trailhead. It is located on the opposite side of State Highway 32. This is the most popular segment of the trail, and crossing the highway is necessary to access the trail. Also, be mindful that the trail on the east side of the highway is heavily used by ATVs.
Fall 2020 | UpNorthAction.com
Pick a Pumpkin and Watch a Threshing Demo at Historic Farm Day OCONTO – Gather up the kids and spend a festive fall day on a farm by visiting the Meadow Brook Farm Rural Life Center, 5085 County Road J, Oconto. The farm is hosting its Autumn Historic Farm Day from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 26. Pumpkins will be available for $1 each. There will be children
crafts, antique flywheel engines display, cider press/bottling, threshing demonstration, honey beekeeper demonstration, wine tasting, daily BBQ, needlecraft, and metal arts. Admission is free. For a complete list of activities, demos, and vendors, see the Meadow Brook Farm Facebook page. The mission of the Rural Life Center in Couillardville is to provide a living history museum and nature conservancy that offers a representation of Oconto County’s rural heritage through preservation, restoration, and education.
Le Leav aves es
OCONTO OCONTO
a a last lasting ing imp impress ression! ion!
County County
www.OcontoCounty.org
www.OcontoCounty.org www.OcontoCounty.org
UpNorthAction.com UpNorthAction.com || Fall 2020
Northeast Region
If you're looking to escape to a destination that's full of color, history and endless opportunities for adventure, then Oconto County is the place for you! With nearly 1,000 miles of ATV/UTV and snowmobile trails, the Nicolet National Forest, and the Bay of Green Bay, Oconto County is every outdoor enthusiast's dream. Plus, a visit to the Beyer Home or Copper Culture State Park is perfect for families and history lovers alike. No matter which adventure you choose, Oconto County has a place for every visitor all year long!
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Northeast Region
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For a full listing of our health and safety precautions, current promotions, as well as areas of our facility that are open visit our website.
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Put Breakwater Falls on Your Fall Trip Planner FLORENCE – There’s breaking news on the waterfront. Which is say that a little-known but impressive waterfalls just below the Pine River Dam now has an official name. Breakwater Falls is one of eight waterfalls located in Florence County’s Pine and Popple rivers. It’s the sixth-largest waterfall in Wisconsin. Until recently, the towering waterfall didn’t even have a name and was omitted from maps, making it one of Wisconsin’s best-kept secrets.
of Keyes Peak for the best fall color shot in the county. Or drive Rustic Road #74 in Fence between County C and Hwy 139. Go to ExploreFlorenceCounty.com or the Visitor Center on the corner of U.S. 2 and Hwy 70 for more information.
Breakwater Falls features three tiers of cascading falls, with rapids, to create a spectacular 60-foot waterfall. Unique rock formations of two-billion-year-old bedrock show the power of the river and beauty of nature. Breakwater Falls changes drastically with water flow: thundering at high flow and intricate ledge flows during low flow. The south side has the best trail, while the north side offers a high bluff view and delicate back channel falls.
Northeast Region
To get to the south side, turn west on Power Dam Road off Hwy N. After 1.25 miles, stay right at the Y-intersection. The road dead-ends at the Pine River Dam powerhouse. Park there; walk around the gate and up the gravel road. At the top of the road, follow the signs down to the top of the first tier. The trail along the river is primitive and requires a climb uphill after the third tier to get back up to the road. To see the falls from the north, turn south on Pine River Road off of Hwy D. Follow Pine River Road to the Pine River Flowage We Energies campground. From the parking lot, walk down to the dam and follow the footpath to the falls.
Other Fall Options
The fall colors have started. So plan a trip to photograph all hikeable waterfalls in Florence County. Or plan an ATV/UTV color ride on the Blue Ox Trails. Hike, drive, or disc golf to the top
UpNorthAction.com UpNorthAction.com || Fall 2020
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Northcentral Region
NORTHCENTRAL REGION
Northcentral Region
Fish On! Time to Wet a Line
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Wandering walleye, not to mention marauding muskies, put on the feedbag each fall. For anglers, it’s a perfect time to spend the day on a Northwoods lake. Fishing pressure is down; skiers and tubers are gone; temps are no longer in the sweaty 90s.
Junction. For more information, visit boulderjct.org/events/5thannual-boulder-junction-lions-walleye-classic/2020-10-03/or contact tournament director Bob Bertch at macooa@centurytel. net or 715-892-2366.
There are even a few fishing tournaments to whet your appetite for some friendly competition, as well as netting cash if you make it to, or near, the top of the field. Good luck to all the anglers, and enjoy the splendid fall colors while you’re out there!
Midwest Musky Classic – Last year, Terry Ederer nailed a 49.5inch muskie to take first place at the Midwest Musky Classic at Phelps. This year, maybe it’s your turn!
Greater Wisconsin Musky Tournament – The Oct. 3 and 4 muskie tournament takes place on 10 area lakes in the greater St. Germain neighborhood. Fishing hours are Saturday 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Sunday 6 a.m. to noon. This event is sponsored by the St. Germain Chamber and Rob Manthei’s Guide Service. There will be cash prizes, trophies, and raffle prizes. For more information, call 715-477-2205. Walleye Classic – The Boulder Junction Lions Club invites you and a fishing partner to the fifth annual Walleye Classic the weekend of Oct. 3 and 4. They are spreading out the field on 14 lakes in and near this Vilas County community. Based on a minimum of 10 teams, they will award $300 to the top team, $200 for second place, and $100 for third. Plenty of fishing hours are scheduled: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday and 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday. Sunday’s outing closes with awards, raffle prizes, and a traditional fish fry at Headwaters Restaurant and Tavern in Boulder
Fall 2020 | UpNorthAction.com
The Oct. 2–4 tournament will be headquartered at the sponsoring Phelps Chamber, with fishing on North and South Twin Lakes, Big Sand Lake, and Lac Vieux Desert. Fishing hours are Friday and Saturday 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sunday 7–11 a.m. Raffles and prizes will be awarded at lunch at noon on Sunday. For more information, call 715-545-3800. Mercer Muskie Madness – This two-day team tournament takes places Oct. 16–17 on 10 lakes within the Turtle Flambeau Flowage River that have legal access. Those lakes are Fisher Lake, Spider Lake, Oxbow Lake, Echo Lake, Grand Portage Lake, Pike Lake, Mercer Lake, Lake of the Falls, Trude Lake, and the Turtle Flambeau Flowage. Friday fishing hours are 7 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Saturday hours are 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. Prizes for first, second, and third place along with many other prizes, raffles, awards, and food. Awards ceremony will take place Saturday night at Gateway Lodge. For more information, call 715-476-7878.
Northcentral Region UpNorthAction.com | Fall 2020
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Spanning over 259 acres within Minocqua, WI is Wildwood Wildlife Park Zoo & Safari and all of its residents! The Giraffes and Penguins are the most popular, while visitors flock to partake in the giraffe encounter. Another must visit includes the Safari Tram ride populated by Eland, Ostrich, Kudu, Nyala, Beisa Oryx, Nilgai, Scimitar Horned Oryx, Wildebeest, Bongos, Emu, and much more!
Wildwood Wildlife Park is all about providing special experiences that last a lifetime with every visit no matter your age!
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OFFERING EXTRAORDINARY ANIMAL EXPERIENCES
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Hand Feeding: Goat, sheep, pig, aoudad, and camel. Whitetail deer are strolling leisurely throughout the park and visitors can feed them out of their hand.
Giraffe Encounter: Get nose to nose with the tallest animals in the world during the giraffe feeding. You will have the opportunity to get up close and personal with these astonishing and fascinating giraffes. Guests will even get to meet the newest giraffe, Taji. We can’t wait for you to meet our baby giraffe. Fall 2020 | UpNorthAction.com
Parakeet Encounter: Enjoy the parakeet encounter, a wonderful experience for the entire family. Hear the children’s laughter and excitement as they hand-feed hundreds of brightly colored parakeets.
Penguin Cove: This new, immersive exhibit is home to a cozy colony of African penguins.
Siamang: A performance and sound that guests will never forget! You will have the opportunity to hear these silly monkeys as they fill up their air sack to call out, which can be heard over 2 miles away!
White-Handed Gibbon: Our white-handed Gibbon couple named Maddie and Teddie welcomed a healthy baby to their monkey family. Come check it out!
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Koi and Trout Feeding: Buy trout pellets from the feed machines and toss into the pond and see the entire surface come alive with a frenzy of trout or koi. Guests can just sit and relax in this peaceful and tranquil area.
MoDanaZu!
2nd L A R G E S T Z O O in W I S C O N S I N!
Amphitheater: Learn about your favorite animals during our Zoo Chats and meet our animal ambassadors.
Wildwood Wildlife Park Zoo & Safari is home to over 2000 animals and acres of fun. You will find a million reasons to smile. Come spend the day with us. We can’t wait to show you around.
Over 60 Years
An Unforgettable Family Adventure
FUN FOR ALL!
• Hundreds of Mammals, Birds, Reptiles & Primates • Giraffe Feeding • Parakeet Feeding • Whitetail Deer Feeding • Bear Juice Feedng • Goat-Sheep-Camel-Pig Feeding • Petting Area/Animal Encounters • Trout Feeding • Koi Feeding
NEW
PENGUINS & GIBBONS & SIAMANG
• Explore & Learn Programs • Safari TRAM Ride • Paddle Boat Ride • Safari Kiddie Train Ride • Dino Dig • Aviary-Flamingos • Educational Center • Living History Center • Hungry Bear Ice Cream & Sweet Shoppe • Jambo Food Stand • Wild Bananas Snack Stand
Open 7 days a week, May 1st - mid October
NEW
Safari Tram Ride
www.wildwoodwildlifepark.com E-mail: nature@wildwoodwildlifepark.com
715-356-5588 / 10094 Hwy 70 W, Minocqua, WI
UpNorthAction.com | Fall 2020
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Safari Tram Ride: Jump on the tram and enjoy a narrated journey winding through the sprawling woods. Spot Zebra grazing near a spring fed pond. Watch Eland studding across an open field. Search for the camouflaged Scimitar Horned Oryx concealed in the thickets or the Wildebeest sunning on the savannah. There is nothing like this in the state of Wisconsin.
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Best Bets for a Fall Outing
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Colorama is synonymous with autumn’s outdoor beauty. The change in the color of leaves makes for a breathtaking view almost anywhere you go from mid/late September to the second week of October. Photographers of all abilities are primed to capture these iconic scenes, many taken from overlooks and near rivers and lakes. Here’s a sampling of our favorite spots for Colorama awe: Timm’s Hill – An excellent place to take in nature’s fall canopy of color is from Timm’s Hill, the highest point in Wisconsin, with an elevation of 1,952 feet above sea level. It is located in the Timm’s Hill County Park in Price County at 45 degrees 27’04” north latitude, 90 degrees 11’42” west longitude. The park gate is open 7:30 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. approximately May through October. The entire area is heavily forested with northern hardwoods and is spectacular during the fall color season. From the summit, you can also see Bass Lake and Timm’s Lake. Timm’s Hill is located less than a mile south of Highway 86, midway between the towns of Ogema and Spirit, approximately 23 miles west of Tomahawk. Smith Rapids Covered Bridge – The Smith Rapids Covered Bridge is located at N14900 Smith Rapids Road, which is 14 miles east of Fifield on State Highway 70 and then north 2 miles
Fall 2020 | UpNorthAction.com
on Forest Road 148. The bridge is located on Wisconsin’s Rustic Road 105 in the heart of the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest and spans the South Fork of the Flambeau River. Constructed in 1991, the bridge uses an attractive diamond-shaped truss pattern, called the Town Lattice. The 90-foot-wide Smith Rapids Covered Bridge is the only glue-laminated Town Lattice covered bridge in Wisconsin. There is a nearby campground, and riders can access the ATV/UTV trail there. Saxon Falls Overlook – You can’t go home without seeing at least one beautiful waterfall! (And aren’t they all beautiful?) Directions to the Saxon Falls Overlook: From Hurley: travel about 11 miles west on US 2 to the intersection with CTH B; head north on CTH B for roughly 2.7 miles at which point CTH B will curve to the west. Do not follow the curve, but rather continue north on Saxon Falls Road (unpaved) down the hill approximately 0.5 miles to the unpaved parking area, which is located at 46.535797, -90.380255. On foot, follow the short, wooded hiking trail to the east of the parking area, which leads to the overlook location. The best way to visit the falls is to drive to the dam. From here, there is a trail that leads to the falls. Most of the trail is a boardwalk built on top of the diversion pipes. It crosses the river to the Michigan side.
800-44NORTH UpNorthAction.com | Fall 2020
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LETSMINOCQUA.COM
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Saddle Up for the Ironbull Red Granite Grinder WAUSAU – True Grit was one of our all-time favorite Westerns. John Wayne was fond of riding, which is to say he probably would have traded his horse for a mountain bike and joined racers at this year’s Ironbull Red Granite Grinder Bike Race in Wausau on Saturday, Oct. 17. Racers will explore the grit in the western portion of Marathon County, including several gems not normally open to bikers. They will drink in the sights and sounds of a bucolic world populated by ginseng fields, dairy farm pasture, barns, and farm fields. Ride options are 50-, 85-, and 140-mile routes. Be forewarned: the 140-mile course is designed to find out who is the toughest of the tough. Riders get an immediate taste of what’s in store with climbing 800 feet to the top of Rib Mountain, setting the tone for the day. For those not prone to spending hours in the saddle, they might consider the 12-mile recreational ride, a family-friendly, non-competitive (but timed) event in downtown Wausau. Each race starts (with a police escort for 7 a.m. races) and finishes in the heart of downtown Wausau on the 400 Block.
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The well-deserved post-race party will be held on the 400 Block upon your finish. Family, friends, food, music, and, most importantly, beer (including local craft brews) and drink are there to congratulate you, an Ironbull finisher. All racers will receive a free meal from the Urban Street Bistro food truck.
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For more information, call 715-848-5949 or visit ironbull.org/ red-granite-grinder-details.
Fall 2020 | UpNorthAction.com
Trail Riders Unite for a Good Cause ANTIGO – Recreational riders are invited to help make a child’s wish come true by taking part in the 12th annual ATV/UTV Charity Ride for Make-A-Wish Wisconsin on Saturday, Oct. 10. The ride through the countryside and forest will be memorable, and all proceeds will benefit the charity. Participants can ride on their own, or the Antigo Area ATV/UTV Club will provide leaders for riders not familiar with the area. The ride is $25 per person or $50 per family (or pledges), which includes dinner. For more information, call 262-689-3242. Riders will meet at 8:45 a.m. at NorthStar Lanes for a short meeting and group photo. The local club will lead the main group.
UP CLOSE & PERSONAL!
MoDanaZu!
There are frequent stops, a nice pace, and a lunch break midday. All are due back at 3:30 p.m. to prepare for the evening activities, which include dinner at 5 p.m., silent auctions, Star raffle, three tables of raffles, and games. Kids and adults alike can take a walk down nostalgia lane with the games such as Plinko and toilet paper toss. Everyone who plays will get a trinket. Non-riders are also invited to enjoy the fun beginning at 6 p.m., as dinner is not available. Antigo is ATV friendly. Park at your hotel, unload and drive your ATV/UTV from the Super 8, America’s Best, and Holiday Inn to NorthStar Lanes. However, you cannot ride on State Highway 45.
2nd L A R G E S T Z O O in W I S C O N S I N!
Boo is
Northcentral Region
2020 Zoo
CANCELED See you in 2021!
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Saxon Harbor Marina and Campground Now Both Open SAXON – Campers and lovers of Lake Superior have reason to rejoice now that Saxon Harbor sports a new marina and campgrounds, the latter being recently reopened. Visitors can access the lakeshore, and the ATV/UTV trail runs nearby. The harbor and its facilities, including the campground, were destroyed in the July 2016 storm. The new marina has 81 boat slips, 10 fewer than before the storm. Slips can be rented; there are three boat ramps and a kayak launch. It cost $14.2 million to rebuild the entire marina, but it’s a beauty!
from the floodplain where the former campgrounds were located. There are 26 RV sites and five tent sites open, with the RV sites going for $38 a night and the tent sites costing $23 a night. Weekly rates are also offered. Reservations are required and can be made through the Iron County Forestry Department’s website, ironcountyforest.org. There are daily and seasonal county park fees. A pavilion can be rented also. For more information, call the Saxon Harbor office at 715-893-2370.
The new campground is located across County A from the Harbor Lights Bar and Restaurant. They built it on higher ground, away
Dog-Powered Races Bring Excitement to Pearson PEARSON – You don’t have to wait until snow covers the ground to enjoy fast-paced sled dog racing in northern Wisconsin.
Northcentral Region
The 15th Annual Dirty Dog Dryland Derby at the MaKaJaWan Boy Scout Reservation outside Pearson will bring together mushers and their canine racers for a weekend of racing action on Saturday and Sunday, Nov. 7 and 8. Races start at 9 a.m. both days. Between 80 and 100 sled dog racing teams, including those from Canada and Alaska, are expected. Each event offers three groupings: professional, registered breed, and sportsmen. You’ll see teams with mountain bikes (“bikejoring”), two-wheeled scooters, carts, and dogs partnered with running mushers (“canicross”), in addition to the standard teams. In canicross, runners are harnessed to a single or pair of dogs with the goal of gently pulling the runner without toppling him or her over! Spectators, especially families, are welcomed to this autumn event. They can visit with drivers and smooze with their dogs at their trucks, too! Parking and admission are free for spectators. Home-cooked food service will be available at the race site. The Boy Scout Reservation is north of Antigo. Take Highway 45 north and turn on County Road T toward Pearson. Stay on County Road T through Pearson and look for the signs, taking a left off “T” to the race site.
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Up North Good For Your Soul
Up North
Up North Good For Your Soul
Good For Your Soul
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Good For Your Soul
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Up North Good For Your Soul
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Pumpkin Run ATV/UTV Rally IRON COUNTY – The annual Pumpkin Run ATV/UTV Rally in Iron County kicks off with a four-day poker run on Thursday, Oct. 8, at 3 p.m. The big rally, which attracts hundreds of riders, runs through Sunday, Oct. 11. You are encouraged to register in advance online, but there is also on-site registration at either the Mercer or Hurley chamber office. The $20 fee includes one poker sheet (two for $30), a commemorative bandana, and the opportunity to win cash prizes as well as door prizes. The poker run includes stops at businesses throughout Iron County, with lots of great riding along the way. There will be an ATV, UTV, and Lawn Tractor Pull from 2 to 6 p.m. Friday, Oct. 9, at Liberty Way Tap House. There are multiple classes for ATVs and UTVs and one class for lawn tractors. Test your skills against the Z Force ATV Sled from the Tuscobia Trails ATV Association. The Mercer Dusty Loons ATV Club and the Mercer Area Chamber of Commerce are the sponsors. The Great Pumpkin ATV/UTV Parade will start at 5 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 10, through downtown Mercer. Decorations or costumes aren’t required, but prizes will be awarded for best-
decorated Halloween-themed vehicles. The wrap-up party at Eunica’s Beaver Lodge directly follows the parade with music, food, drinks, door prizes, and raffles.
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Your Area Northwoods Real Estate Specialists, Ed & Chris Raasch
Chris Raasch, Broker Owner 715-612-7926 chris@woodlandlakesrealty.com
Ed Raasch, Broker Owner
303 N. 4th Street Tomahawk, WI 54487 Office: 715-224-3800
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www.WoodlandLakesRealty.com UpNorthAction.com | Fall 2020
Northcentral Region
But why stop Saturday? Get in some more riding on Sunday; enjoy breakfast and lunch before heading home. The poker run ends at 6 p.m. Sunday.
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Northwest Region
Northwest Region
Birkie Trail Run Festival Debuts New Venue
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CABLE – The annual Birkie Trail Run Festival the weekend of Sept. 26–27 features the best sections of the famous Birkie Trail, as well as a host of other fun events. The festival will start and finish at the American Birkebeiner trailhead in Cable. The half marathon has once again been named the USA Track and Field 2020 Half Marathon Trail Championship. Whether you chose the half, full, or relay marathon or the ultra, this course is perfect for runners looking to break free from the roads, as it is a great crossover and introduction to trail running. The Birkie Trail has a wide, grass-covered, level surface, and the single-track is smooth and fast. But don’t make any mistake about it, this is a full-commitment trail race, with the famous Birkie hills making it a challenging race for even veteran trail runners. Hammer it or cover your favorite distance at a recreational pace. Either way, this event has a friendly vibe, an awesome vendor fair, a finish-line party with local Northwoods fare, Birkie Brew-Ski craft beer on tap, live music, on-site camping, bonfires, and more! For more information, call 715-634-5025 or visit birkie.com/run/events/birkie-trail-run/.
Fall 2020 | UpNorthAction.com
Northwest Region UpNorthAction.com | Fall 2020
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Fall in Love with Northwoods Fall Festivals Scattered like falling leaves in the northeast section of the great Northwoods of Wisconsin are a number of fall festivals guaranteed to please the wandering spirit in you (as well as the need to shop, shop, shop). Over in Hayward, take in the fall colors and fun with a visit to their annual Fall Festival on Saturday, Sept. 26. Activities will be located on Main Street in the downtown. There will be fine arts and crafts, food, brat and beer garden, live music, sidewalk sales, farmer’s market items, children’s games, Relay for Life 5K run/ walk, and a scarecrow design contest.
Northwest Region
There will be lots of activities at Siren’s annual Harvestfest & Homecoming Celebration set for Sept. 25 and 26. Fall leaf colors are usually beginning to peak at this time of the year, so your trip will be colorful to say the least! Saturday’s events include artisan and crafter show
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Fall 2020 | UpNorthAction.com
at Crooked Lake Park, “Run Down Hunger” 5K, carriage rides, farmers market, pumpkin bowling, and contests. Homecoming will be celebrated both Friday and Saturday. For details, call 800788-3164. St. Croix Falls welcomes autumn leaf peepers with their annual Harvest Festival on Sept. 26 and 27. Events will be held at the Chateau St. Croix Winery & Vineyard, located at 1998 State Road 87. There will be a craft vendor fair, live music, winery tour, and wine sipping. Hours are Saturday 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Sunday 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Admission is free. Don’t miss St. Croix Falls’s contribution to autumn fun. Their Autumnfest & Craft Fair will be Saturday, Oct. 3, at the St. Croix Falls Library, 230 S. Washington Street. Celebrate the season with festivities that will include an arts, crafts, and food fair from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. and music at the Farmer’s Market from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. For more information, call 800-222-7655.
Northwest Region UpNorthAction.com | Fall 2020
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Northwest Region 32
Fall 2020 | UpNorthAction.com
Be the First at South Shore Enduro
Northwest Region
BAYFIELD – Mark your calendar and enter northern Wisconsin’s first mountain bike enduro to be held on the Chequamegon Area Mountain Bike Association (CAMBA) trails. The South Shore Enduro on Saturday, Oct. 10, will start at the Mt. Ashwabay trailhead, 32945 Whiting Rd., Bayfield. This inaugural event (postponed from its original May 9 date) offers two race options with a shorter three-stage sport class as well as a longer, more challenging five-stage. The courses will feature everything from flowy fast sections to technical rocky climbing. Races get underway at 10 a.m. Registration includes timing/number plate, free post-race beer or beverage, event sticker, snacks, and entry for prize drawing. All proceeds from the event go directly back into MTB advocacy, CAMBA trail building, and maintenance. Registration and after party will be at South Shore Taphouse. For more information, call 715-798-3599 or visit cambatrails.org/events/south-shore-enduro/.
UpNorthAction.com UpNorthAction.com ||Fall Fall2020 2020
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Zombies on the Loose! Will You Survive This 5K Run? SPOONER – Experience the thrills and chills of being chased by bloodthirsty zombies on the one-of-a-kind 5K Zombie Run course through the haunted woods of Spooner on Saturday, Oct. 17. But beware of what’s around the next bend … you may have to run for your life!
Northwest Region
Participants are encouraged, but not required, to dress up in their scariest zombie attire. Registration starts at 2:30 p.m. While it is on an individual basis, racers are encouraged to run with friends – you may need a hand to hold! The race itself starts at 5:30 p.m.
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The course will be clearly marked. The terrain will contain paved trail, road, and sidewalk. Prizes will be awarded for best zombie costumes. For more information, call 715-635-2168.
Fall 2020 | UpNorthAction.com
U.P. Michigan Region
Autumn Is the Right Time to Visit Copper Peak IRONWOOD – Capture the magnificent landscapes that only the Upper Peninsula of Michigan can provide with a trip to International Copper Peak Ski Flying Hill and Recreation Complex, just northeast of Ironwood. Known simply by locals as Copper Peak, the ski-flying hill is the only such facility outside of Europe. Thousands of visitors each year enjoy riding the chairlift and then the elevator to take in the views from the top of this unique attraction (for a fee).
U.P. Michigan Region
The mammoth structure rises some 241 feet above the crest of Chippewa Hill, a copper-bearing rock outcrop. An 18-story elevator provides access to the observation deck. Climbing the additional 60 feet stairs to the top starting gate will allow the visitor to “experience” the feelings of the ski flyer about to launch himself down the 469-foot inrun. No wonder the operators of the facility aptly named the trip up Copper Peak’s Adventure Ride!
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From the top of Copper Peak, it is possible to see 40 or more miles in every direction. The fall colors of the mixed conifers and hardwoods of the Ottawa National Forest and the Black River Scenic Byway are unequaled anywhere. The view overlooking Lake Superior, the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore, and the Porcupine Mountain Wilderness State Park is truly impressive. Bring binoculars if you want to see the hills near Grand Marais, Minnesota, or Isle Royale National Park, visible some 70 miles to the north on a clear day. It goes almost without saying, but bring your camera, as Copper Peak is a photographer’s dream.
Fall 2020 | UpNorthAction.com
Dickinson County Has You Covered for Outdoor Recreation DICKINSON COUNTY – As summer transitions to autumn, the Tourism Association of the Dickinson County Area and its membership invite day-trippers and extended-stay visitors to discover the natural beauty of the area, especially the Iron Mountain area, and all the friendly folks who call this part of the Upper Peninsula of Michigan home.
The Tourism Association folks say the scenery on the snowmobile trails is simply “breathtaking.” With over 118 miles of groomed snowmobile trails in the county, there are plenty for fun in the snow. The county trail system also networks with the rest of the Upper Peninsula and northern Wisconsin, so there’s no shortage of trail riding available for the adventurous.
It’s nearing Colorama time, a period of 3–4 weeks when the trees dig into the Crayola box and pull out reds, oranges, and yellows and go full bore on redoing their green leaf color. The result is spectacular to see, whether you’re a hiker, biker, motorcyclist, or on four wheels. (Be sure to check out the four-season fun at the Fumee Lake Natural Area!) In fact, USA Today has announced their Readers’ Choice Award for best color in the entire United States was awarded this year to the Upper Peninsula!
The trails traverse deep woods, pass by vertical granite outcroppings glistening with frozen waterfalls, and come to a crossing of the Menominee River via a trestle bridge. Dickinson County enjoys well-groomed and marked trails thanks to the volunteers of the Tri-County Snowmobile Club. When it’s time to refuel the body, check out the local restaurants and taverns offering delicious food from monster-size hamburgers to mouth-watering steaks and Friday night fish fry.
Speaking of the latter, the Dickinson County area offers many opportunities for ORV/ATV riders. Whether it is on a statedesignated trail, forest road, or shoulders of county roads, the county offers a wide range of trail conditions and spectacular scenery. Norway allows ATV use within the city limits. Iron Mountain allows ATV use to travel to outside of the city limits to trails. Kingsford allows ATV use to the outside of city limits to trails.
Iron Mountain has all the lodging and trail amenities you may desire for a snowmobile or downhill or cross-country ski trip.
Looking ahead, don’t let winter pass by without a trip or two to Iron Mountain, billed as “the Gateway to the U.P,” and the entire Dickinson County Area.
There are about a dozen XC trails all within 20 miles of downtown Iron Mountain. Most are groomed and well marked and have plowed parking trailheads. There are two public sledding hills for all-day family fun: City Park in Iron Mountain (lighted and steps) and Strawberry Lake Park in Norway. In addition to downhill skiing opportunities at Pine Mountain, there are similar recreation facilities at Norway Mountain.
U.P. Michigan Region
ADVENTURE TO THE TOP OF THE WORLD'S LARGEST ARTIFICIAL SKI JUMP TOWER IN IRONWOOD, MI
& witness 360-degree, panoramic views overlooking the Ottawa National Forest, Black River, Lake Superior, and so much more. Open Every Day until Mid-October www.copperpeak.com for specific times & prices
COPPER PEAK
(906) 932-3500 UpNorthAction.com | Fall 2020
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Motors Will Roar, Dirt Will Fly at Hillclimb SOUTH RANGE – Great racing action for fans unfolds Saturday, Sept. 19, when the MASTERS racing circuit holds a motorcycle/ snowmobile hillclimb at Whealkate Bluff, South Range, MI. (This event had been postponed from its original June 20 date due to the COVID-19 pandemic.) The organizers expect this will be “the most challenging motorcycle hillclimb” at this facility since the MASTERS has put them on. “It’s truly going to be a test of racer and bike,” says MASTERS president Skip Schultz. “The racer will have to find the best way up this very steep hill, yet stay within the ‘cut’ of the hill.” There will be various categories, from youth to Open Mod. The fastest of the fast up the 500-foot bluff will be crowned Vollwerth Meats’s “King of the Hill.” Racing starts after on-site registration closes at 9 a.m. EST. Parking and concessions will be available on the grounds. Admission is $10/ person, under 6 free. The MASTERS has a new sound system whereby people throughout the grounds will be able to clearly hear the PA system on 88.5 FM. Bring your boombox to listen to the PA.
Northwest U.P. Michigan Region Region
The MASTERS, which is an acronym of Mid America Snow and Terrain Expert Racers, is the promoter and sanctioning body of the hillclimb.
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Fall 2020 | UpNorthAction.com
Up North
F A L Good L F U N For A WYour A I T S Soul YOU
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Northwest Region
U P N O R T H A C T I OUpNorthAction.com N . C O M| Fall 2020
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