Find your summer getaway

It’s never too early to start planning your summer vacation in the Northwoods of Wisconsin and the U.P. of Michigan. There’s lots to see and do in the Northwoods. The activities and events will appeal to all family members, couples and solo travelers.

Thousands of lakes, serenity of the area and nature-based experiences are prime reasons to visit this area. The clear lakes are perfect for fishing, boating and swimming. The vast majority of them have public access, many with boat ramps and piers for effortless launching of watercraft.

Anglers with specific species in mind won’t have trouble finding a suitable waterbody to cast a lure or to dangle a worm under a bobber. From the smallest lakes to the Great Lakes, there are ample opportunities to catch a musky, walleye, trout, bass or panfish. Come July and August, you might even see scuba divers exploring the depths of those clear lakes. You can cover miles of Class A trout streams and rivers, fishing from the canoe or a kayak. That are rivers that offer leisurely floats or whitewater excitement.

If your preferred mode of recreation involves a bike, there are hundreds of miles of paved bike paths, along with expertly designed mountain bike trails through towering pines, and interesting places to tour within a community. You’re never far from an ice cream shop, restaurant or watering hole when it comes time to re-energize the body.

Local, state and national parks are yours to explore and play in with either free admission or a small fee. Vineyards, apple orchards and blueberry farms are there for the tasting and picking.

Many repeat travelers blend their outdoor pursuits with a visit to one of our charming communities and their unique shopping and dining opportunities. The Northwoods is replete with hometown celebrations, ranging from maple syrup festivals, to Native American pow wows, to fishing contests, to stock car races, to sailing regattas and classic and antique car/truck shows. Petting zoos and wildlife parks bring the wildlife and farm critters within reach.

Loons, bald eagles, white-tailed deer, coyotes and black bear all share the outdoors with us. Count yourself fortunate if you spot an elusive wolf or a moose.

Artists, skilled carvers and other talented folks welcome you to visit them in their studios or stores where their paintings, carvings, woven works, fine art photographs and more await your inspection. Museums tell the tale of our past with examples of tools and household items.

There is a place to stay the night, ranging from wilderness camping to national brand motels/hotels, resorts with housekeeping or American Plan stays, and B&Bs.