Wisconsinn Winery Wisconsi Co-op
Earn your own Wisconsin Winery Co-op glass by completing the Wisconsin Winery Co-Op Trail Book. Learn how to earn yours at one of our participating wineries.
info@wisconsinwineryco-op.com
WisconsinWineryCo-op.com Winery Co-op Bucks can be used at any of our co-op wineries! They make the perfect gift!
To purchase your Winery Co-op Bucks go to
WisconsinWineryCo-op.com
Editor’s COLUMN We’re looking good up here!
tournaments, mountain bike and foot races are just a few of the offerings that await you and your family.
We’re optimistic about the return of normalcy in our everyday lives – assuming of course that screaming down a zip line, hauling in a 30-pound muskie, and watching a rodeo cowboy hang on for dear life on top of a three-quarter-ton bull is considered “normal.”
Many people of course come north for the quality of life: the sounds of loons echoing across the lake at night; quiet conversations around a campfire; searching for a meteor streaking across the clear night sky; taking the kids swimming and fishing; shopping at unique and quaint shops; seeing an abundance of bald eagles, ospreys, white-tailed deer and the rare glimpse of a wolf or bear before it vanishes in the deep forest.
As of this writing, the Centers for Disease Control has stated that fully vaccinated people do not have to wear masks indoors or outdoors for the most part. That means visitors and residents will be able again to enjoy visiting central and northern Wisconsin and the U.P. of Michigan with few if any restrictions. As you go through this issue of Up North Action, you’ll discover this summer’s many celebrations and other events happening across the great Northwoods. Outdoor concerts, rodeos, fishing
On behalf of the many chambers of commerce/visitor centers and the businesses that serve you, the visitor, welcome to the land they call Up North! Dean Acheson Editor
Inside this issue Wisconsin Winery Co-op.........................................................................................................Inside Front Cover Rollie & Helen’s Musky Shop.........................................................................................................................Page 3 Editor’s Column.................................................................................................................................................Page 4 Iron County Michigan Lodging Council & Iron County Economic Chamber Alliance.... Back Cover
GET PUBLISHED Want to see your stories and photos in Up North Action magazine? Show us what you love about northern Wisconsin and U.P. Michigan for an opportunity to be published! For more information, go to the Get Published tab at
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Published By: 5 Star Marketing & Distribution 409 Southpark Drive • P.O. Box 10 • Tomahawk, WI 54487 715-453-4511 • E-mail: info@5starupnorth.com Owner/CEO Al Hanley alh@5starupnorth.com Editor Dean Acheson
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Accounting Jackie Blodgett Sales Associate Al Hanley Teresa Mead
June 2021 | UpNorthAction.com
Administrative Assistant Sam Bartz info@5starupnorth.com Project Manager & Senior Graphic Designer Danelle Pretasky
Drivers Kevin Atchison Gary Harlander Jeff Safranek
Map & INDEX
CENTRALREGION REGION- -page page86 CENTRAL
NORTHWEST REGION - page 40
Covering the following county: Portage
Covering the following counties: Ashland • Bayfield • Douglas • Burnett Washburn • Sawyer • Rusk • Barron Polk • St. Croix • Dunn • Chippewa
NORTHEAST REGION - page 11
Covering the following counties: Florence • Forest • Marinette Oconto • Menominee • Shawano NORTHCENTRAL REGION - page 14
U.P. MICHIGAN REGION - page 48 Covering the following counties: Gogebic • Ontonagon • Houghton • Iron Dickinson • Menominee
Covering the following counties: Iron • Vilas • Price • Oneida • Lincoln Langlade • Taylor • Marathon
UpNorthAction.com | June 2021
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Reel in adventure, family bonding with a
Fishing Trip
W
By Dean S. Acheson
a lifetime.
hether you take home a trophy bass, or walleyes for a fish fry, you’re taking home more than the catch of the day. You’re taking home a bucket of memories that will stay with you and your kids for
Fishing is truly a family sport, as all ages can take part. Little children readily take to it, although you may have to handle the worms and sunfish. To entice newcomers to the sport, both Wisconsin and Michigan offer free weekends of fishing for adults and older children! (Kids 15 and under fish free in Wisconsin; kids 16 and younger fish free in Michigan.) In Wisconsin, residents and non-residents will not be required to
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have a fishing license or trout/salmon stamps the weekend of June 5-6. In Michigan, the dates are June 12-13. But remember, all other regulations apply, including bag limits and lengths. About those memories: When I was old enough to acquire a car, one of my secret fishing spots in Barron County was a lazy bend in the Yellow River. One memorable trip I sailed a night crawler over some lily pads. As the crawler descended, a hefty largemouth bass erupted from the water, mouth agape, and inhaled it. There was at least five inches of air between its tail and the water before it splashed down. Years later, I took my boat to a small lake in Oneida County. Off a rocky point, I puzzled over the fish I could barely see. I teased a small minnow, felt the bite, and set the hook. Over the gunwale came a 17-inch crappie. I took home a half dozen, the smallest being 15 inches.
of trout streams. The Upper Peninsula is surrounded by three of the Great Lakes — Lake Superior, Lake Michigan and Lake Huron. (Wisconsin nudges the first two.) The U.P. also has 4,300 inland lakes and 12,000 miles of rivers and streams. A number of them are Blue Ribbon trout streams, so called for their exceptional abundance of wild native trout. Most of the lakes in both states have public access of some sort; many with quality boat ramps, piers and parking. There are a number of areas that offer excellent shore-fishing opportunities for people with disabilities. Fishing piers designed to accommodate wheelchairs are wider to offer enough room for turning around. They have lower railings and rod holders so that anglers can cast out and fish. There are a number of resources to tap into for finding the best places to fish. Local bait shops have all the supplies, including live bait, for a day of fishing. Not only can they tell you which lakes are “hot,” but they can direct you to the type of bait the fish seem to prefer that week. Professional fishing guides can get you on fish quickly. Their daily or half day fee covers not only their professional knowledge, but also the “rental” of their boat (and gas) for that trip. Some guides will specialize in one species, for example, muskies. You will come away with a good fishing experience, including learned techniques the next time you go by yourself. All of the above and more can be found on the Department of Natural Resources websites of Wisconsin (dnr.wisconsin.gov) and Michigan (Michigan.gov/dnr).
You don’t need a $60,000 tournament boat to catch fish. Indeed, before he passed away a fishing buddy and I enjoyed taking my 14-foot aluminum boat with a 25 hp. Mercury. We caught more fish out of that old clunker than in my fish n’ ski with the 150 that pushes it.
A few final words. Be safe. Wear a life jacket, especially important for the kids, when underway. Learn the boating rules and be respectful of other users of the lake. The navigable waters in Wisconsin and Michigan are owned by the respective states and open to all. Teach the kids well and you will have a fishing buddy for a lifetime!
Nor do you have to look far. Wisconsin and the Upper Peninsula are blessed with an abundance of lakes, ponds, rivers and streams. Wisconsin has more than 15,000 lakes and some 84,000 miles of rivers and streams. Wisconsin boasts over 13,000 miles
UpNorthAction.com | June 2021
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Come over to Plover
Northeast Central Region Region
ATTRACTIONS
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GOLDEN SANDS SPEEDWAY TEL: 715-423-4665 www.gssraces.com 11000 Wisconsin 54, Wisconsin Rapids, WI THE SANDBAR TEL: 715-315-1520 Biron Flowage, Wisconsin
DINING ANCHOR BAY BAR & GRILL TEL: 715-423-0010 anchorbaybarandgrill.com 3460 North Biron Drive, Wisconsin Rapids, WI
June 2021 | UpNorthAction.com
CLUB FOREST BAR TEL: 715-345-1220 clubforestbar.com 1176 Club Forest Drive, Plover, WI DOUG’S SPORT PUB TEL: 715-345-2334 www.facebook.com/ dougssportspub/ 6225 State Hwy 54, Plover, WI FOUR STAR FAMILY RESTAURANT TEL: 715-341-1832 5261 WI-54, Plover, WI 54467 PARADISE RESTAURANT TEL: 715-341-1755 www.facebook.com/paradise restaurantplover/ 3401 Post Road, Plover, WI
SHOOTERS TEL: 715-341-8878 5330 Harding Avenue, Plover, WI
LODGING BEST WESTERN HOTEL & CONVENTION CENTER TEL: 715-544-6200 www.bestwestern.com/en_US/ book/hotels-in-plover/bestwestern-plover-stevens-pointhotel-conference-ctr/propertyCode.50136.html 5253 Harding Avenue, Plover, WI SUPER 8 / ELIZABETH INN / CONVENTION CENTER TEL: 715-341-4414 www.wyndhamhotels.com/super-8/ plover-wisconsin/super-8-ploverstevens-point-area/ 5246 Harding Avenue, Plover, WI
RECREATION DONAHUE SUPER SPORTS TEL: 715-424-1762 www.donahuesupersports.com 6821 Plover Road, Wisconsin Rapids, WI MSC BOAT LIFTS & DOCKS TEL: 715-424-7766 docksandliftsbymsc.com 9754 Wisconsin 54, Wisconsin Rapids, WI PLOVER BAIT SELF-SERVE TEL: 715-344-6352 www.facebook.com/Plover-BaitSelf-Serve-369881540147371/ 4620 Coolidge Avenue, Plover, WI PLOVER MOTORSPORTS TEL: 715-544-6006 plovermotorsports.com 2540 Plover Road, Plover, WI RAPIDS PROPELLER & MARINE TEL: 715-423-4080 rapidspropeller.com 3460 North Biron Drive, Wisconsin Rapids, WI
RIDGEWOOD ON THE RIVER TEL: 715-344-8750 www.facebook.com/ ridgewoodontheriver 4800 River Ridge Rd, Plover, WI S&M CYCLE WORKS TEL: 715-544-1888 www.facebook.com/ SandMCycleWorks/ 2541 Post Road, Plover, WI
RETAIL FELTZ’S DAIRY STORE TEL: 715-344-1293 www.feltzsdairystore.com 5796 Porter Drive, Stevens Point, WI
SERVICES ABEL COMPLETE CONSTRUCTION TEL: 715-321-3149 www.abelcomplete.com 3011 Patton Drive, Plover, WI KWIK TRIP TEL: 715-344-7252 www.kwiktrip.com 5339 Harding Avenue, Plover, WI STONE INNOVATIONS TEL: 715-345-1601 www.stoneinnovations.net 3611 Post Road, Plover, WI
KWIK TRIP TEL: 715-344-7252 www.kwiktrip.com 5339 Harding Avenue, Plover, WI STONE INNOVATIONS TEL: 715-345-1601 www.stoneinnovations.net 3611 Post Road, Plover, WI
Enjoy the Outdoors at Lake Pacawa TOWN OF PLOVER – Just a short drive from the Town of Plover is Lake Pacawa, a small 23-acre lake that boasts two parks and a memorial honoring those who served during the Korean War. Worzella Pines Park on the shore of Lake Pacawa provides a large picnic area, charcoal grills, boat landing, paved walking paths, modular play equipment, swing set, rocking animals, shoreline benches, and two T-ball diamonds. It also is home to the Wisconsin Korean War Veterans Memorial. The park is located at 1505 Maple Dr., Plover.
Central Region
The 35-acre Lake Pacawa Park, 1831 Maple Drive (off Hoover Ave/Maple Drive, behind Menard’s), welcomes visitors to pack a picnic lunch and spend some time there. A band shell was recently constructed at the park. The master plan for park development includes additional walking trails, fishing piers, designated areas for an historical patriotic marker, parking and new shelters. Already there are two Lions Club shelters, a Pony League ball diamond, two soccer fields, a beach area, play area and shelter house with restrooms. Those fishing the 23-acre Lake Pacawa will find a variety of fish including largemouth bass, perch, striped bass, smallmouth bass, pumpkinseed, walleye, rock bass, bream/bluegill, crappie and northern pike. Motor trolling is allowed with up to three hooks, baits or lures, per angler. Whether you’re fly-fishing or bait casting your chances of getting a bite here are good.
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Come over to Plover
Korean War Veterans Memorial honors those who served PLOVER – A striking memorial to the men and women who served during the Korean War (25 June 1950 – 27 July 1953) can be seen in Plover. The Wisconsin Korean War Veterans Memorial is adjacent to the Worzella Pines Park at the junction of I-39 and County Road B. The Memorial is open daily until 11 p.m. Nestled on a 2.5-acre island in Lake Pacawa, the WKWV Memorial pays tribute to those Wisconsinites who fought, died and those who are still listed as Missing in Action as a result of the Korean War. A handicap accessible walkway leads to the memorial.
Northeast Central Region Region
The village provided a site on the island in Lake Pacawa. Funding for this Memorial comes solely from donations, sales of memorial tiles and other memorabilia sold during memorial events.
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Each year on the first Sunday of June a special memorial program is held. Several area veterans groups participate. State and federal representatives, military personnel, DVA personnel, and Korean representatives are invited. The public is also invited. In respect to what the WKWV Memorial represents no animals are allowed, nor is biking, fishing, swimming, etc.
About the Memorial The Korean War is called “The Forgotten War.” But not for the 5.7 million Americans who served in it (130,000 from Wisconsin). And not for families of the 54,000 Americans who died in it – including 801 from Wisconsin. The Memorial comprises a circular wall, open at the front, then slowly rising on both sides to its highest point at the rear, 10 feet above the base. There are four flag poles placed around the wall: the U. S. Flag, the U. N. Flag, the Korean Flag and the State of Wisconsin Flag.
June 2021 | UpNorthAction.com
Inside the wall is a 8-foot walkway, with 6 stone benches, one for each year U. N. Combat Forces were in Korea. At the front of the walkway is a pathway leading to and from the Memorial, and just above the location where the pathway and walkway come together, a 4-foot round bronze plaque covers a time capsule with mementos of the Korean War. The Memorial’s website (koreamemorial.org) notes what each statues represent: “The Memorial statuary are composed of five larger then life figures. A nurse leads the group, because without the dedication, compassion, and bravery of the medics, many would not have returned. “Following the nurse are Army and Marine Infantrymen, because the infantry bears the brunt of the battle. “Then comes the Air Force pilot and a sailor, without whose support the battle would have soon been lost. “The statues face east, because Korea is in the Far East, and in memory of all who lost their lives and are still missing in action. All five figures are touching -- touching in brotherhood that comes from battle. “There are no weapons on the Memorial -- this is to confirm the veteran’s wish for peace. The five figures will stand in memory of all veterans who serve our state.” Directions: Take Exit 153 off I-39/US51 at Plover. Turn west onto CTH B. At the first set of traffic lights, turn left onto Village Park Drive. A left turn at the end of this road will bring you onto Maple Drive, which runs parallel to the northern border of the park in which the Memorial is located.
Northeast Region EVENTS June 5 Florence – Chamber Rummage & Craft Sale June 5-6 Antigo –Roaring Raceway Off- Road Racing June 11-13 Oconto -- Copperfest June 12-13 Wabeno – Dual Sport Ride June 19 Laona – Summer Festival June 19 Mountain – Nicolet Plastics Walk/Run June 19 Shawano – Wolf River Paddle and Pedal June 19 Florence – Mud Runs July 10 Florence – Badwater Bass Tournament July 31 Lakewood – Wienerfest North
Who Says We Can’t Play in the Mud FLORENCE – ATV/UTV riders can have a lot of fun on the 160 miles of trails in Florence County. During the rides they are treated to scenic views of rolling hills, many miles of pristine rivers and streams, beautiful waterfalls, and forests that cloak the trails. There is also an ATV park east of Florence, just off Trail 2.
Northeast Region
Maintaining those trails is the focus of the Florence County Blue Ox Trail Riders Club, which includes ATV/UTV and snowmobile enthusiasts. To support their year-round trail work, club members will be sponsoring mud runs on Saturday, June 19, starting at 10:30 a.m. at the Florence County Fairgrounds on County N. For those who want to race, the entry fee is $25 per run for each of the multiple classes. Registration is from 6-9:30 a.m. The spectator admission is $10; kids 12 years and under are admitted free. Concessions will be sold onsite to raise money for the trail work. There will be no carry-ins allowed.
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Morgan Lake Campground is ATV/UTV Friendly LONG LAKE -- It’s camping season and the great Northwoods welcomes you with open arms, starry skies and maybe the hooting of an owl in the trees above. Let’s find you a place to camp. Morgan Lake Recreation Area is an ideal place to camp in Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest. The scenic campground is located in a heavily wooded forest surrounding pretty Morgan Lake. It was one of the first national campgrounds in the U.S. to allow ATVs/UTVs. (There is no joy riding within the campgrounds.) The location does provide direct access to hundreds of miles of ATV routes and trails. The campground is comfortably equipped and provides access to a number of recreational opportunities, including fishing, boating, swimming and hiking. A picnic area is available, as well as an adjacent parking area and access to the lake. Pit and vault toilets and drinking water are provided For those bringing fishing poles, the clear, 45-acre lake offers up largemouth bass in abundant numbers. Only electric motors may be used.
Northeast Region
In addition to the 18 individual family campsites in the main campground, the facility offers a single, large-group campsite, available for tent and RV camping. It can accommodate up to 25 people and four vehicles, as well as one RV or trailer. Utili-
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ty hookups are not available and parking surfaces are gravel. The group campsite, located away from the others, is equipped with multiple tables, a campfire circle and grills. Sites can be reserved at recreation.gov or by calling Reserve America at 1-877-444-6777 or TDD 1-877-833-6777. Otherwise, it’s first-come, first-serve. You can find groceries, firewood and sundry items at Long Lake, 12 mile northwest of the campground. Directions: From Laona travel north 7 miles to Highway 139. Turn left (north) on Highway 139 and continue for 11 miles to FR 2161. Turn right (east) and drive 7.8 miles to the campground
Northeast Region UpNorthAction.com | June 2021
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Northcentral Region EVENTS
Northcentral Region
EVENTS
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June 4-5 June 5 June 5 June 5 June 10 June 11 June 11-13 June 12 June 12 June 12 June 12 June 12 June 12-13 June 18-19 June 19 June 19 June 19 June 19 June 19 June 19-20 June 25-26 June 25-26 June 25-27 June 25-27 June 26 June 26 June 26-27 June 27 July 2-3 July 3 July 8-11
Manitowish Waters – Northwoods Birds and Wildlife Festival Deerbrook – Crazy Eights Mountain Bike Race Minocqua – June Bloom Arts & Crafts Festival Minocqua – Musky Tournament Philips – Girls Night Out Eagle River – Up North Beer Fest Premier Night Merrill – Wisconsin River Pro Rodeo Rhinelander – Art Fair on the Courthouse Lawn Rhinelander – Rhinelander Car Show St. Germain – Walk in the Woods Art Fair Eagle River – Up North Beerfest Mercer - Lupine Junefest Bike Tour Eagle River – Spring Classic of Champions Musky Tournament Manitowish Waters – Solstice Bike Festival Phelps – Valley of the Giants Musky Tournament Eagle River – Props and Pistons Fly-In, Car Show & Radar Run Hurley – Snake Hunt Fishing Tournament Laona – Summer Festival Minocqua – Paws on the Run Gleason – Gleason Heritage Days Mercer – Mercer Open All-Species Fishing Tournament Minocqua – Antique & Classic Boat Show Antigo – Northwoods Exhibition Equine/Rodeo Crandon -- Brush Run Off-Road Races Minocqua – Bear Cupboard Run Saxton – Bass Tournament Eagle River – Professional Musky Tournament Trail Conover – Taste of Conover Phillips – Price County Rodeo Tomahawk – Art and Craft Show Rhinelander – Hodag Country Music Festival
June 2021 | UpNorthAction.com
NORTHCENTRAL REGION
Antique & Classic Boat Show Returns to Minocqua MINOCQUA – The much-anticipated Minocqua Antique & Classic Boat Show in Minocqua is out of COVID-19 drydock, and ready to wow visitors to this event headquartered at – appropriately enough – The Boathouse in downtown Minocqua. The 29th annual event will be Friday and Saturday, June 25-26. Spectator admission is free. Friday’s hours are noon to 8 p.m. The boat parade will take place during intermission of that evening’s Min-Aqua Bats water ski show. Saturday’s hours are from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Scheduled also Saturday is live music from 1-8 p.m. The many wooden beauties from near and far will be tied up at the Boathouse’s berths, with a few on shore at nearby Redman Realty. You can chat with the captains about their crafts, many of which date back to the 1930s, 40s and 50s. Visitors and boat captains will be casting ballots for Best of Show. There will be food, beverages, clothing, and raffle tickets available both days with proceeds supporting local non-profits. At certain times, the boat owners will be asked to start the boat engines so all can hear the deep, mellow rumble of the big motors. The boat owners will be touring the Minocqua Chain of Lakes throughout the weekend. Due to liability concerns, however, they cannot give rides to outside parties.
Northcentral Region UpNorthAction.com UpNorthAction.com ||June May 2021
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B bber Down Guide Service
Bobber Down Guide Service Jeff Robl 715.776.0140 BobberDownGS@gmail.com BobberDownGuideService.com
“Jeff’s ability to get on fish is uncanny and his knowledge of the Turtle Flambeau Flowage and special "Honey Holes" is unmatched."
Pat Lorsung, Amherst, Wisconsin
Northcentral Region
4816 N Little Pike Lake Road, Mercer, Wisconsin 54547 USA
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June 2021 | UpNorthAction.com
Northcentral Region UpNorthAction.com UpNorthAction.com ||June May 2021
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Enjoy the Great Outdoors During Mercer’s Lupine Fest and Bird Festival MERCER -- The Mercer Chamber of Commerce’s twin Lupine Fest and Bird Festival have you covered whether you perch on your bike to view the beautiful wild lupines as you travel the
southern part of Iron County or take a walk on a birding outing. Both events will be Saturday, June 12 with headquarters at W. S. Carow Park in Mercer. Overall hours are 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. The chamber has mapped several scenic routes for bike riders, including 10- and 28-mile routes. Riders can also select their own routes. The rides will be on paved roads, through rolling hills and forests and past lakes and rivers. On-site registration begins at 6:30 a.m. with a group start at 8 a.m. The registration fee includes a tee, goodie bag, snacks, lunch coupon, water and SAG vehicle support. There’s also an early packet pick-up from 4-6 p.m. on Friday, June 11 at Carow Park where riders can discuss bike routes and meet event organizers and fellow riders.
Northcentral Region
Once back at Carow Park, Saturday’s riders will enjoy lunch and drinks from the concession stand as they listen to music and enjoy the view of Grand Portage Lake. The Mercer chamber will be hosting its first-ever Backyard BBQ Cook-off, also at Carow Park.
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The Mercer Bird Festival will be underway from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Carow Park with a live bird event, nature displays, kids activities, information booths, bird calling contest and bird-banding demonstrations. There’s limited registration for the separate guided birding hikes to the Little Turtle Wildlife Area and the Turtle Flambeau Flowage Scenic Waters Area. Mercer is recognized as a Bird City by Bird City Wisconsin because of the community’s programs that educate residents and visitors about birds and sound conservation practices. For more information on the two events, visit mercercc.com.
June 2021 | UpNorthAction.com
Northcentral Region UpNorthAction.com UpNorthAction.com ||June May 2021
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‘Taste of Conover’ Sure to Delight Taste Buds CONOVER – Hundreds of people typically turn out for the annual Taste of Conover event, and this year should be no different. The event will be Sunday, June 27, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Conover Town Park, Hwy. K East. The Conover Chamber of Commerce is the event sponsor. They promise you will not go away hungry. Area restaurants and businesses will feature specialty items covering breakfast, lunch,
dinner and desserts. Each vendor will have food items in $1 increments. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance. Many families plan a trip “Up North” specifically for this event! There will be activities for kids and live music as you enjoy the food and chat with friends new and old.
Northcentral Region UpNorthAction.com UpNorthAction.com ||June May 2021
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All Ages Will Enjoy a Visit to the Minocqua Museum
MINOCQUA – Minocqua has a charming museum where you can learn more about the community’s early days and the people who made a difference in the history of this flourishing resort community. There is something for everyone to discover, including a 1908 Cameron automobile and a very large model train layout with two running trains. Minocqua became a township on March 13, 1889. The town’s name was derived from the Ojibwe word “Ninocqua,” meaning “noon-day rest.” Native Americans once used the Island of Minocqua as a place of rest during their journeys.
The history of Minocqua is rich in logging lore. In 1891 the town consisted of 29 saloons, two hotels, two general stores, a small market and approximately 15 homes. Photos, memorabilia, displays and artifacts from the decades that followed are fascinating to view.
photo by Dean S Acheson
Among the exhibits is one of the devastating fire of 1912 that wiped out a good portion of Minocqua’s business district. A scale model train display shows how the community looked before the fire. After the lumbering era was over, the town became attractive to people seeking fishing adventures and a quiet way of life. An exhibit on the Min-Aqua Bats, a water-ski club still active today after nearly 70 years, will be expanding this summer in observance of the club’s 70th anniversary. Kids will get a kick out of the one-room schoolhouse display – no electronic devices here! There’s also an exhibit on the military.
Northcentral Region
photo by Dean S Acheson
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Admission to the museum is free; donations welcomed. It’s open weekdays from June to Labor Day, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., and other times by appointment (715-356-7666). The museum is located at 503 Flambeau Street, on the Island of Minocqua.
Northcentral Region
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Let the Sun Sparkle Off Your Bike Spokes MANITOWISH WATERS – There will be so much sun, so much fun at the Solstice Festival in Manitowish Waters the long weekend of June 18-20. They will be celebrating the longest day of the year and kicking off the summer cycling season.
Northcentral Region
Solstice Festival has perfect courses and activities to offer riders, whether they are preparing for a week-long tour or charity ride, training for a summer of competitive racing, or simply getting the family out for an organized ride.
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Rides will be on paved bike trails, including the family fun ride (up to 12 miles), 29-mile cranberry ride, 50-mile half-century ride, 100-mile century ride, or give the new 15-mile Buswell loop ride a whirl. The fun ride begins at Koller Park and includes stops at North Lakeland Discovery Center, Camp Jorn YMCA, and
June 2021 | UpNorthAction.com
North Lakeland School. All other rides begin at the community center on U.S. Hwy. 51. Register at solsticefestival.us. During Friday’s kickoff event, from 3-7 p.m. at Koller Memorial Park, riders can register, pick up a swag bag, meet other riders and head out on the free sunset ride to River’s Edge Outfitters for food, drinks, music and a campfire. After a day in the saddle on Saturday, riders can enjoy a party from noon to 4 p.m. at Koller Park, featuring live music, food, drinks and more. On Sunday, take the family to the North Lakeland Discovery Center where staff will guide you on the two dirt trail rides that will be offered from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. This is for riders of all abilities.
Northcentral Region
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Northcentral Region
‘Walk in the Woods’ Art Fair Announced ST. GERMAIN – Sample wine and cheese selections and listen to the music as you stroll through the woods at Chamber Park in St. Germain to find unique treasures at the 14th annual Walk in the Woods Art Fair on Saturday, June 12. The St. Germain Chamber of Commerce is presenting the event from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Admission is free. Dozens of local and regional artisans will showcase an eclectic mix of handcrafted pottery, paintings, photography, woodcarvings, ironwork, furniture, basketry and jewelry. Many of their juried works were inspired by the beauty of the great outdoors. Their booths will be nestled among the beautiful pine trees that cover these grounds behind the chamber building.
Northcentral Region UpNorthAction.com UpNorthAction.com ||June May 2021
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Be Among the First to Ride the InSayner Bike Race SAYNER – The Lakeland Area Mountain Bike Organization (LAMBO) is inviting 75 people to sign up for their inaugural InSayner bike race on Saturday, June 12. The InSayner joins the Fatathlon (January) and the Rip, Zip and Sip (February) as the third leg in a LAMBO Triple Crown. This sometimes-grueling course also has a few surprises in store. Weather will dictate what type of bike riders should plan on using, but with the varied terrain, an advantage on one part of the course might be a disadvantage on another. The 23-mile route will take riders through the depths of the Northern Highland-American Legion State Forest. There will be snowmobile trails, sweet stretches of downhills, an old ski hill run (Mus-ski Mountain), logging roads, gravel roads, a small stretch of blacktop, and a few other surprises along the way. There’s a 7K alternative for those opting out of the longer route. As noted, the field is limited to 75 riders with advance registration only. If you want to see the 10 a.m. race start, it will be at the Plum Lake Community Center in Sayner. For more information or to register, visit lamboriders.org.
Northcentral Region
If you don’t make the field, consider the four trails that LAMBO has developed and maintains: Zip Trails, Shannon Lake, Raven Trails, and Schlecht Lake. Information and location on these trail is also on their website.
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Northcentral Region UpNorthAction.com UpNorthAction.com ||June May 2021
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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!
Northcentral Region
OFFERING EXTRAORDINARY ANIMAL EXPERIENCES 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.
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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 De Brazza’s Monkeyto call out, which can be Our De Brazza’s Darwin and Amyaya welcomed a healthy baby heard over 2 miles To their monkey family. Come check it out! away! De Brazza’s Monkey: Our De Brazza’s Darwin and Amyaya welcomed a healthy baby to their monkey family. Come check it out!
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.
Amphitheater: Learn about your favorite animals during our Zoo Chats and meet our animal ambassadors.
Northcentral Region
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. 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.
UpNorthAction.com UpNorthAction.com ||June May2021 2021
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Rhinelander to Host Art Fair, Car and Motorcycle Shows RHINELANDER – More than 100 arts and crafts vendors will be waiting for those drawn to the 34th annual Art Fair on the Courthouse Lawn in Rhinelander on Saturday, June 12. The Art Fair is held on the spacious grounds of the historical courthouse and also along Davenport Street. Hours are 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. A wide array of media will be available for purchase, including pottery, metal art, fabric art, jewelry, wood art, paintings, and photographs. The event also includes kids activities, plenty of food and entertainment. In the past, the Rhinelander Band has played. Two other shows are held in conjunction with the Art Fair, drawing thousands of visitors to the newly renovated downtown. The Rhinelander “Second Saturday in June” Car Show will showcase over 125 unique vehicles.
Northcentral Region
Dr. Kate Museum & State Historical Marker
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Learn the inspiring story of Dr. Kate, Angel on Snowshoes
923 Second Avenue, Woodruff, WI 715-356-6896 • Visit us on the web: drkatemuseum.org Monetary donations appreciated Mid-June through Labor Day: Open Monday – Friday 11am-3pm September Hours: Open Tuesday & Thursday 11am-2pm Group Tours by Appointment Affiliated with the State Historical Society of Wisconsin Across from the Lakeland Cinema on Highway 51 North Handicap Accessible
June 2021 | UpNorthAction.com
Also scheduled is the fourth annual motorcycle show “Bikes and Burgers” in downtown Rhinelander. Open to all makes and models, the entries will be competing in four classes, including special interest (dirt, UTV, mini, bicycle, Spider). Then check out the downtown restaurants and pubs to satisfy your appetite with a tasty grilled burger.
Northcentral Region UpNorthAction.com UpNorthAction.com ||June May 2021
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Logging Lore Comes Alive at Scheer’s Lumberjack Shows
No matter how good a log roller is, he or she will end up in the water eventually. It’s a cold swim before those first few shows of the season.
Northcentral Region
WOODRUFF -- Weeks before the official start of summer, Scheer’s Lumberjack Shows begins preparing for the upcoming season. 2021 will mark the 36th year that Fred Scheer’s Lumberjack Shows has been entertaining area visitors on Woodland Lake in downtown Woodruff.
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A spin-off of the famous Scheer’s Lumberjack Shows that began in Hayward, the Woodruff show features the same world-class athletes in a performance that is identical to the Hayward venue. Preparing the site for the summer performances involves maintenance to guarantee the safety of performers, as well as guests. The climbing poles that rise 60 to 90 feet into the air are inspected and the pads are secured in place. “When you are climbing that pole at record speed, the last thing you want on your mind is its stability,” says Cassidy Scheer, world champion pole climber. The log dogs on which the lumberjacks stand and swing razor sharp axes in the event called the underhand chop are checked for structural safety. The specially turned cedar logs used for the logrolling and boom-run events are pulled out of storage and replaced if necessary.
June 2021 | UpNorthAction.com
The gear and equipment used by the lumberjacks are also checked for safety. Steel-toed boots, leather leg chaps, climbing belts and gaffs (the spikes on the side of a climber’s shoes) must be in tiptop shape to protect the performers. They inspect and repair the special leather guards that are placed over a portion of saw blades to protect children as they cross-cut saw with the lumberjacks during the kids matinees. In addition to the lumberjack gear, the show site is prepared for the throng of summer guests who arrive with the warm weather. Bleachers, walkways and the handicap ramp are checked and the landscaping is refreshed.
How about all the logs the lumberjacks saw and chop? Over 20 tons of aspen logs are hauled to the site throughout the summer. Logs need to be uniform in diameter and stripped of bark – the same guidelines adhered to in the Lumberjack World Championships. The season starts Memorial Day weekend and runs through Labor Day weekend. The Lumberjacks are eager to entertain and display the athleticism they’ve worked hard to keep tuned during the winter months. With everything checked out, cleaned up, and the staff eager to get another season underway, there is one element of the shows that cannot be controlled. That is the temperature of the water in Woodland Lake or Lake Hayward. “Logrolling and the boom-run are pretty darn cold events for us those first few shows of the season,” explains Zac Tom, show manager. “That lake doesn’t really warm up until the beginning of July. No matter how good you are at these events, you’re going to end up in the water at some point.”
UpNorthAction.com UpNorthAction.com ||June May 2021
Northcentral Region
2 miles north of Minocqua at Hwys. 51 and 47, 1 block right
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Rodeo Lassoes Up Fun, Excitement for Families for Friday and Saturday evenings and early Sunday afternoon. The Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association (PRCA) sanctions the event, which will be enjoyed by all family members. Of added note is the “boot scramble” contest for kids ages 5-13. The Jerry Schmidt band will be playing after the two evening rodeos. Crowned the 2007 State Country Band Champions by the Hodag Country Music Festival, the band showcases steel guitar, fiddle, keyboard/organ, lead guitar, rhythm guitar, bass guitar and drums. MERRILL – The Lincoln County Rodeo Association announces the Wisconsin River Pro Rodeo will return to Merrill on June 1113, bringing with it all the action of bull riding, bucking broncos and blazing fast barrel races. Rodeo performances are scheduled
Following the patriotic Grand Entry get ready for exciting bareback riding, steer wresting, team roping, saddle bronc riding, tie-down roping, barrel racing, break away roping and bull riding. The announcer gives a heads-up on each competitor and engages in banter with the professional rodeo clown. Barnes PRCA Rodeo from Peterson, Iowa is the stock contractor. Food and merchandise vendors will be open starting Friday afternoon. The rodeo performance gets underway at 7 p.m. and is a salute to the nation’s Armed Services. Saturday brings the antique stock tractor pull. The pulls will start at 10 a.m. Admission to the tractor pull is free. The evening rodeo performance will be at 7 p.m. It’s “Tough Enough to Wear Pink” night in support of cancer education, treatment and research. You are encouraged to wear an item of pink clothing; similar pink clothing will be available for purchase at the rodeo grounds.
Northcentral Region
Sunday’s rodeo will be at 1 p.m. following the queen coronation at noon.
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June 2021 | UpNorthAction.com
Open Daily 11am
N12025 County Hwy. L, Tomahawk, WI
715-453-4984 OPEN DAILY AT 11 AM
Homemade Sandwiches, Burgers, Wraps, Salads & Chicago Style Thin Crust Pizza Happy Mon-Fri Half Price Drinks hour 2-5 PM Rail & Tap Beer THURSDAYS - AWARD WINNING
Baby Back Ribs & Smoked Chicken (Memorial Day - Labor Day)
Starting at 5 pm Outside Seating Available!
Music by Jeff Calhoun
FRIDAY FISH FRY ALL DAY LONG SATURDAY NIGHT
SUNDAYS - 10 AM TO 1 PM
ALL-U-CAN-EAT $11.99 Adults BrUNCH Buffet $6.99 8 & Under
6 Big Screen TVs! LIKE US ON ATM & Wifi Available BillyBobsSportsBarAndGrill.com
Large Patio Overlooking the Wisconsin River Live Music on the Patio Every Saturday from 4-7 and Sunday 2-5 (June 12th-Aug 8th) Friday Fish Fry All Day Long Saturday Night: BBQ Chicken and Ribs at 5pm (Memorial Day - Labor Day)
Sunday Fried Chicken All Day Long Full Service Catering for Weddings, Parties and Everything in Between 10 Large TVs, WIFi, ATM
616 N. 4th Street, Tomahawk
(715) 224-3594
outboardsbarandgrill.com UpNorthAction.com UpNorthAction.com ||June May 2021
Northcentral Region
Prime Rib Special Slow roasted Prime Rib with baked potato & fresh vegetable. $14.99
Happy Hour: Mon-Thur 2-5pm 1/2 off on all Drinks & Appetizers
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Northcentral Region
Plenty of Excitement is Planned for Northwoods Exhibition ANTIGO -- The Northwoods Exhibition on June 25-27 is three days of family fun and entertainment. The equine rodeo-based event will at the Langlade County Fairgrounds in Antigo. There will be kids activities, various contests, craft and tack vendors and food vendors. Friday’s line-up includes a fish fry from 4-8 p.m., WHPA sanctioned horse pull at 4 p.m., and jackpot barrel race at 7:30 p.m. Saturday line-up includes vendor booths, pancake breakfast, mounted shooting jackpot starting at 9 a.m., quick draw contest, dog agility demo, BBQ challenge and Bulls and Barrels event with CC Bucking Bull, the 2019 Bullriders Stock Contractor of the Year returning. Sunday features vendor booths, pancake breakfast, WPPA pony pull at 10 a.m., and Triple Crown Challenge at 2 p.m. Times as of this writing were tentative. Check their Facebook for updates. The fairgrounds is located at 1633 Neva Road in Antigo. For more information, call 715-317-0012.
Northcentral Region UpNorthAction.com UpNorthAction.com ||June May 2021
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Northwest Region EVENTS June 5: Amery – Amery Trails Day June 5 Barron – Dairy Breakfast June 5: St. Croix Falls – City of Trails 5K, 10K, & half and full marathon June 5-6: Milltown – Kids “R” 1st Fishing June 7 Chetek – Taste of Chetek June 11-13 Hayward – Women’s Mountain Biking Weekend June 11-13 Frederic – Family Days June 12: Osceola – Rhubarb Fest June 12 Rice Lake – Demolition Derby June 12 Luck – Tractor Pull June 13 Rice Lake – Car Show June 15-17 Chetek Wine Walk June 18-20: Clayton – Clayton Cheese Days June 19: Amery – Woman’s Club Arts & Craft Fair June 19: Amery – Stower Seven Lakes State Trail Marathon June 19 Cable – Chequamegon 100 Mtn. Bike Race June 19 Turtle Lake – Summer Solstice Celebration June 25-27 Hayward – Musky Festival June 25-27 Mason – Mason Days June 26-27 Rice Lake – Hungry Hollow Steam & Gas Engine Show June 26-27 St. Croix Falls – Cars, BBQ and Blues Fest June 26-27 Milltown – Fisherman’s Party June 26-27 Clear Lake – Heritage Days July 8-10 Spooner – Heart of the North Rodeo July 9-11 Turtle Lake – Inter-County Fair July 10-11 Centuria – Centuria Memory Days
Hungry Hollow Fires Up the Antiques, Classics RICE LAKE – Come step back in time at the Hungry Hollow Gas & Steam Engine Club’s 51st annual show the weekend of June 26 & 27. Gates open at 7 a.m. each day at the show grounds, corner of Hwy. 25 and 19th Avenue, outside of Rice Lake.
Northwest Region
There will be numerous antique machinery in action, as well as displays of antique tractors and antique and classic cars. Demonstrations will include blacksmithing, corn shredding and shelling, and wood sawing.
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The Western Wisconsin Pedal Pullers fun pull begins at 10 a.m. Saturday. The tractor pull on Saturday begins at 4 p.m. The garden tractor pull is slated for noon Sunday. Also scheduled are vintage fire truck rides and a “parade of power’ each day at noon. Watch the sky for demonstrations of remote controlled model airplanes. Bring a bit of money because there’s a flea market, arts & crafts, and country store. Food and refreshments, including a pancake breakfast with pure maple syrup, will be available. Area musicians will take part in a “tractor jam.” For updates and more information, visit hungryhollowclub.com.
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Northwest Region UpNorthAction.com UpNorthAction.com ||June May 2021
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Tour Chetek Area by Bike CHETEK – Load up the road bikes and head to Chetek in Barron County to explore the countryside. This tourism-friendly community has a lot to offer visitors, including an outstanding lake chain, a quiet pace of life, a museum, trails, camping and more.
June 2021 Schedule New First Night with the Blue Canvas Orchestra hosted by Michael Perry Friday • 6/18/2021 • 7:30pm • $26 Youth half-price (BCO+) New Second Night with the Blue Canvas Orchestra hosted by Michael Perry Saturday • 6/19/2021 • 7:30pm • $26 Youth half-price (BCO+) Back to the Garden: The Music of Woodstock Friday • 6/25/2021 • 7:30pm • $26 Youth half-price (BCO+) Ozark Mountain Daredevils Saturday • 6/26/2021 • 7:30pm • $70 / $62 / $50 Martha Redbone presents Bone Hill - The Concert Sunday • 6/27/2021 • 7:30pm • $26 Youth half-price
w w w. b i g to p. o rg
Chetek – the City of Lakes -- is at the apex of a 33-mile bicycle route that is included in a former Wisconsin Biking Guide published by the Wisconsin Division of Tourism. The recommended route is fairly easy biking and characterized by farmland and wooded acreage. Starting on the city’s south side, the Chetek Tour takes riders some 12 miles to the charming community of Sand Creek in Dunn County. Along the way, a series of four steep 100-foot hills provide a half-serious test of your fitness level. After a rest and eats at Creek Café, it’s back on the bikes to continue the route that runs nearly 10 miles northeast through Chippewa County to New Auburn. From there it’s a straight shot north 6.5 miles before a turn west on Hwy. D takes you back to Chetek, a distance of another 13 miles. Of course, one is free to carve out his or her own route on the idyllic paths that are Barron County’s signature roads. If you do, be aware that Hwy. 53 is a four-lane freeway and that only certain county roads grant access to the other side.
Northwest Region
For more information and maps about this bicycle route, and more than 100 others in Wisconsin, go to travelwisconsin.com.
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June 2021 | UpNorthAction.com
Enjoy Old-Fashioned Fun at Hayward Musky Festival HAYWARD – The 71st annual Musky Festival in downtown Hayward will be one you won’t want to miss. It’s Hayward’s largest summer festival and one of the largest in the Northwoods. The 2021 dates are Thursday-Sunday, June 24-27.
Northwest Region
This annual event draws thousands of visitors with more than 120 handmade art and crafts booths, sidewalk sales, kids’ games (including watermelon and ice cream-eating contests) and entertainment, including a carnival and live music, along with a run/walk, parade, Musky Queen Scholarship program and the Hayward Lions Club’s fishing contest. There will be food and beer tents.
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Bands will perform on the main stage in the downtown Friday afternoon and night, and Saturday afternoon and night. Admission to the musical performances is free. The 5K run/walk and 10K run will take place Sunday morning. The top male and female finishers in the 5K and 10K will receive special prizes. Age class winners will also take home a prize. The festival finale is the Grand Parade, which takes place Sunday. It sets off at 1 p.m. and goes through Historic Main Street. The Grand Parade features area business and non-profit floats, area high school and professional marching bands, clowns, horses and more.
June 2021 | UpNorthAction.com
Northwest Region UpNorthAction.com UpNorthAction.com ||June May 2021
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Scheers Lumberjack Shows is a great family adventure. Lumberjacks invite kids from the audience onstage during matinee intermissions to cross-cut saw with the lumberjacks. The canoe joust is one of the events in the Lumberjack Shows that keeps the crowd laughing.
Don’t Miss a Highlight of the Summer – a Lumberjack Show HAYWARD – It was 39 years ago Fred Scheer and his brother, Robert, created a new form of family entertainment, a lumberjack show, for northern Wisconsin visitors. The two brothers and their four sisters had spent numerous summers as kids balancing and rolling on the logs on Lake Hayward in the bay of North Wisconsin Lumber Company. Their summer fun trained them to become fierce competitors in the logrolling event (birling) of the Lumberjack World Championships (LWC) held in Hayward every July. The young Scheers expanded their activities and became skillful at the boom run and pole climbing, as well as other events that were part of the LWC. In 1981, the two brothers established the original Scheer’s Lumberjack Show and used their lumberjack skills to entertain area tourists.
Northwest Region
More than a demonstration, the show features a competition between two lumberjack teams as they do 10 different events, including logrolling, pole climbing and crosscut saw. Cheering the teams on gets the crowd involved in the show and down-home humor has everybody chuckling.
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The original venue for the show in 1981 was a small dock on the shore of Lake Hayward, behind what was then Windmill Square. The show’s lumberjacks delighted small crowds and it soon became apparent the production needed more space. With encouragement from Tony Wise, the legendary Hayward promoter, Fred and Robert Scheer moved the show to its present location, Lumberjack Village. After that the Woodruff location opened up. Fred is now the sole owner of Fred Scheer’s Lumberjack Shows and the Lumberjack Village. Training young athletes to be lumberjacks is still a fulfilling role for Fred. Through the years many lumberjacks have come, performed and moved on to other careers. Numerous world champion logrollers, pole climbers and boom-runners had their start as apprentices in Fred Scheer’s Lumberjack Show and the cast has always included world champion lumberjacks. A world champion log roller himself, Fred occasionally delights audiences by personally participating in a show. For all the years Scheer’s Lumberjack Shows has been in Hayward, it continues to draw crowds. One might say that a visit to northern Wisconsin isn’t complete without seeing a Scheer’s Lumberjack Show.
June 2021 | UpNorthAction.com
Opening May 28th
UpNorthAction.com UpNorthAction.com ||June May 2021
Northwest Region
4 PM - Close
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U.P. Michigan Region EVENTS June 26
Florence – Mud Runs
Who’s UP for a Road Trip?
U.P. Michigan Region
SILVER CITY – Catch the open road with a trip to the U.P. Michigan, where you can discover the Midwest’s last great wilderness. Listed on the Porcupine Mountains and Ontonagon Area Convention & Visitors Bureau website (porcupineup.com) are a half dozen suggestions for touring (by auto or motorcycle) the Porcupine Mountains area. Among them is one of our favorites:
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Porcupine Mountains-Lake Gogebic Loop (approx. 120 miles) -From Silver City, travel west on 107th Engineers Memorial Highway, then turn south on South Boundary Road. Stop and see Little Union Gorge Falls and then five miles later, Nonesuch Falls.
June 2021 | UpNorthAction.com
Continue west through the forest along South Boundary Road for more than 25 miles and enjoy some of the most remote and rugged woodlands in the Upper Midwest. Where the road bends south at the westernmost edge of the Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park, you’ll find three outstanding waterfalls on the Presque Isle River: Manabezho, Manido and Nawadaha. From here, continue south on County Road 519 to Wakefield. Then head east on M-28 to Bergland, located on the northern shore of Lake Gogebic. From Bergland, head north on M-64 back to Silver City.
U.P. Michigan Region UpNorthAction.com UpNorthAction.com ||June May 2021
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Capture Summer Magic at Sunday Lake and Eddy Park Don’t be misled. A fun-filled vacation for the entire family can be had within city limits. Designated as Family Friendly Fishing Waters by the Michigan DNR, Wakefield’s Sunday Lake and Eddy Park are the proof. Eddy Park runs along the north shore of the more than mile long Sunday Lake. The animal friendly, no entrance fee park offers the day visitor plenty of picnic tables and grills, along with modern restrooms. Two pavilions are available for larger groups or the rare need for shelter. Fishing is permitted along the lake’s entire shore, as well as from piers and the Indian sculpture deck near the Visitor’s Center. For the more serious angler there is a boat launch in the park and at the mouth of the Little Black River on the south shore. Largemouth bass, northern pike, walleye, sunfish and perch are there for those who know where to look. The shallow shoreline makes for easy canoe and kayak launching or Tom Sawyer like wading. Because, there is rarely more than a single powerboat on the lake, the time is almost always right for a smooth water paddle, especially at sunset.
U.P. Michigan Region
The extensive playground features modern equipment for the younger children, and lots of swings, slides, “monkey” bars, and even an old-fashioned “Merrygo-round” spinner, the kind we grandparents used to enjoy, for the older kids. For the wheelchair bound, young or old, there is a wheelchair glider.
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On busier days, located between the playground and the beach there is a popcorn wagon, offering drinks, hot dogs, and other tasty snacks. Day visitors and campers share access to the swimming beach
June 2021 | UpNorthAction.com
adjacent to the campground. The sandy bottom tapers gradually to the swimming raft and Maui mat, as well as a popular water trampoline. Beach water is tested weekly by the Western UP Health Department. Many find Eddy Park’s campground the perfect base camp for an extended stay in the area. Dozens of waterfalls, sights, activities and attractions are only minutes away. Nearly half of the campground’s 70 sites are located on the shoreline. Many of the interior sites are pull-thru with sewer connections and some include concrete parking pads. Except for the 10 walkin tent sites located north of the access road, all have water and electric hookups. The modern bathhouse is centrally located, and free upgraded Wi-Fi is included in the low free structure. The “Almost-a-Hike.” All of the park’s features, as well as access to downtown Wakefield, are connected by the Sunday Lake Loop, a three mile lighted and paved, or boardwalk, bike and walking path circling the lake. Halfway around visit the Whispering Giant, one of Peter Toth’s 60 plus huge carvings honoring Native Americans. There is at least one in each of the United States, gifted by Toth to the local community. His feat was recognized in Ripley’s Believe It or Not, because he refused to accept any payment for the 18 years of work that it took to create the monuments. Also check out the Wakefield Veteran’s Monument. It’s unique because it doesn’t require a service related death to be recognized. Honorable service is enough to have one’s name carved on these stones, explaining why this patriotic community is happy and proud to have left so much space for future names. While in town consider enjoying a pasty from our world-renowned bakery, a traditional Yooper Friday night fish fry from any of the local Ma & Pa restaurants, or maybe a hand-dipped ice cream delight from the Northwoods General Store. Finally, before completing the loop back to Eddy Park, stop in the Chamber of Commerce Visitor’s Center for advice on your next day’s adventure.
Best Bet for the Summer: Rock Dam Falls Hiking Trail IRON MOUNTAIN – Dickinson County is blessed with unrivaled natural beauty, including its forests and tumbling waterfalls. A summer hike is the perfect tonic for individuals and families looking to stretch their legs on an adventure hike to view these natural wonders. Among the many trails is one relatively close to town. Pine Creek’s Rock Dam Falls hiking trail is located in the state forest northeast of Iron Mountain. It’s suggested that you bring water, especially if the temps are up there. Wear good walking shoes or boots. Here’s how to get there: From Iron Mountain, head west on U.S. 2 to M-95. On M-95 go north about four miles to Sportsmen’s Club Road. Turn east (right) and travel about two miles to Carney Lake Road (a “T” in the road). Turn south (right) and go about one mile (you’ll go through a former gravel pit, but the road is well graded), and you’ll come to a “Y” in the road. Stay right.
U.P. Michigan Region
You will now be on a slightly rougher, curvy, hilly road (In summer this is no problem for cars.) This road is called Forest Service Road on Google Maps. Go about one mile. You’ll see a dirt lane on your left. On a large red pine is a sign that says Rock Dam. Pull into the turn-around and park. Take the path, cross over Hosking Creek wooden bridge, and Pine Creek and Rock Dam are right there. You can follow the trail up the rocks going left of the creek up to the top, or you can cross two very narrow foot-bridges (a long pole is recommended) to the other side of Pine Creek and follow those trails. For information on other hiking trails, visit www.dickinsonchamber.com.
UpNorthAction.com UpNorthAction.com ||June May 2021
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Your Iron Belle Trail Adventure Starts at Ironwood IRONWOOD -- Jump on the longest designated state trail in the nation – Iron Belle Trail -- as you hike or bike your way between historic Ironwood in the Upper Peninsula and Belle Isle Park in Detroit. With a starting point at the Michigan/Wisconsin Montreal River border, the paved trail enters Ironwood from the west, follows the historic Chicago and Northwestern railroad grade through Ironwood and on to North Moore Street in Bessemer and Ramsay, MI. (10.5 paved miles). With benches and historic signage along the groomed shoulders, the Western Gateway of Iron Belle Trail from Ironwood (“Mile 0”) tells the story of the iron mining days in Gogebic County. To start your adventure, park in the historic Ironwood Depot parking lot in the downtown area. Iron Belle Trail comprises two trails – one for hiking, the other for biking. Explore pristine forests, pass cool rivers and across
Mark Your Calendar for Ironwood’s Fourth of July U.P. Michigan Region
IRONWOOD – Summer in the U.P. is festival time-- the sun is out and the energy level is high!
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Experience a great small-town America tradition this year by attending Festival Ironwood, July 14-17, at Depot Park in downtown Ironwood. The four fun-filled days of activities will run the gamut from volleyball and outdoor pool tournaments to an awesome classic car display and an all-day Saturday craft and artisan show. Don’t miss the nightly food specials (the Yooper wood-fired chicken feed is outstanding), live music under the big top tent, and a full range of kid’s offerings, including foot races, a trout pond, the “world’s largest duck pick” and face painting by Downtown Art Place artists. Festival Ironwood has its own Facebook page: facebook.com/ Festival-Ironwood-111502582226563/. You can see the full schedule of events on the Ironwood Chamber website: ironwoodchamber.org/festival-ironwood/.
June 2021 | UpNorthAction.com
railroad trestles, as you visit charming towns, historic sites and find out why Michigan is known as “The Trails State.” About 70% complete, the 1,259-mile hiking route incorporates a large portion of the existing North Country National Scenic Trail. It traverses the west side of the Lower Peninsula and borders Lake Superior in the Upper Peninsula. About 65% complete, the 774mile bicycle route uses existing multi-use trails and follows U.S. 2, a designated national bicycling route in the Upper Peninsula. Construction will continue on to Wakefield in the coming years and connect up to the statewide Iron Belle Trail stretching to Belle Isle Park in Detroit. Stop in one of the communities and enjoy local fare, including pasties, microbrews, coffee and sandwiches. Get more information at IronBelleWesternGateway.org.
U.P. Michigan Region UpNorthAction.com UpNorthAction.com ||June May 2021
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U.P. Michigan Region
The Brule is Calling You Paddlers
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IRON COUNTY – You won’t run out of water to paddle in Iron County, MI. There are 200 miles of rivers, including 43 miles of designated Blue Ribbon trout streams. If flat water is more your liking, Iron County has more than 250 lakes in which to tour with kayak or canoe. Among the more famous rivers is the Brule River. The 55-milelong Brule River is one of the most secluded, navigable rivers in the state, flowing through a remote wilderness setting with few cabins and even fewer roads. The river provides an excellent, relaxing “get-away” experience for canoers and kayakers. Most of the river forms a segment of the border between Wisconsin and Upper Michigan. The Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest borders nearly the entire length along the Wisconsin side, while the Michigan DNR owns most of the land on the Michigan side.
June 2021 | UpNorthAction.com
The Brule has that fun, small-river character in a beautiful, often intimate Northwoods setting. The landscape varies from small rolling hills with steep wooded banks, to a dense northern lowland forest of spruce/tamarack swamp, to open wetlands. The river is also a popular trout stream with brown and brook trout frequently pulled from the many pools scattered throughout the river’s length. The Brule is mainly quiet water with just a few, short sets of rapids, mostly located just above and below the Pentoga (FR 2446) Bridge in Segment B2. Early French explorers named the river ‘Brule’, which means ‘burnt’ in French. The forest near the confluence with the Menominee had been decimated by fire around the time the explorers first arrived. The Chippewa called the river “We-sa-co-ta.”
Adventure awaits!
U.P. Michigan Region
• Miles of ATV/UTV trails • Bountiful fishing • Hiking/biking trails • Camping adventures • Plus SO MUCH MORE!
Ironwood Chamber of Commerce
Lake Gogebic Chamber of Commerce
Wakefield Chamber of Commerce
Travel Ironwood
150 N Lowell St. Ironwood, Michigan 49938 1-906-932-1122 chamber@ironwoodchamber.org ironwoodchamber.org facebook.com/IronwoodChamber/
PO Box 114 Bergland, Michigan 49910 1-888-464-3242 info@lakegogebicarea.com lakegogebicarea.com facebook.com/lakegogebicarea
M-28 at US-2 Wakefield, Michigan 49968 PO Box 93 1-906-224-2222 chamber@wakefieldmi.org wakefieldmi.org
213 Marquette St. Ironwood, Michigan 49938 1-906-932-5050 info@travelironwood.com travelironwood.com
UpNorthAction.com | Spring 2021
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