Up North Action Oct/Nov 2022

Editor’s Column

A Perfect Day…in the Northwoods

Hands down, autumn is one of the prettiest times of the year to ex plore the Northwoods.

Photographers – especially professionals – are absolutely giddy as they embark on a photo journey to rushing waterfalls, framed by the forest’s brilliant and rich yellows, golds and reds that surround them during the first two weeks of Octo ber. Even in late October and very early November, you can find gorgeous color as the tamarack trees put on their own Broadway razzle, dazzle show.

For hikers during this time of the year, it’s “no bugs, no sweat.” The cool air has driven away those pesky insects,

Inside This Issue

Musky Shop

Spooner

and it takes a great deal of exercise for someone to break out into a serious sweat. There are numerous hiking trails, some taking you to scenic overlooks. You provide the locomotion; we provide the location!

Listed inside this issue of Up North Action magazine are a number of community celebrations, as well as those nature hikes, art shows, harvest festivals, visits to apple orchards and pumpkin patches, and more. More suggestions can be found inside in the calendar of events and also on our web site: UpNorthAction.com. Isn’t it time for a soul-relaxing visit to the land they call Up North?

Dean Acheson, Editor

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*All events & businesses subject to change.

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Map & Index

NORTHEAST REGION - page

NORTHWEST REGION - page

NORTHCENTRAL REGION -

U.P. MICHIGAN REGION - page

Northeast Region

Nov. 6 Suring – Holiday Craft Bazaar

Nov. 9 Shawano – Ladies’ Day

Nov. 26 Oconto Falls – Avenue of Lights Ceremony

Nov. 26 Lakewood – Christmas Tree Lighting

Nov. 26 Lakewood & Townsend – Holiday Craft Fair

Nov. 26 Shawano – Holiday Stroll & Tree Lighting

Dec. 2 Shawano – Santa Parade

Dec. 3 Florence – Christmas in Florence

Dec. 3 Oconto – Christmas Parade & Santa Visit

Dec. 3 Riverview – Christmas Tree Lighting Celebration

Northeast Region

Find Fall Colors for Miles and Miles

OCONTO COUNTY -- Pack up the family and travel to the northernmost region of Oconto County for a truly remarkable fall adventure. The local chamber suggests these outings:

Quartz Hill Trail -- The Quartz Hill Trail offers one of the pret tiest views of the brilliant fall colors from atop a quartz rock out crop. As you hike through the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest you’ll take in the dazzling colors of the hardwood forest and the glassy luster of quartz crystal.

Quartz Hill Trail cascades into two sections. One portion is lo cated on the east and the other portion is located on the west side of State Highway 32. 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.

For a panoramic view of the surrounding hills and forest, take the east section that leads across a boardwalk to the top of Mc Caslin Mountain. The trail is rocky and uneven and is also used by ATVs. It has moderately steep sections. Interpretive signs outline the area’s unique history and identity. For example, at the quartz crystal deposit, hikers can learn why the early Native Americans visited Quartz Hill to collect quartz. However, dig ging or collecting quartz crystals is now prohibited at Quartz Hill. Take pictures of these beautiful creations and leave only with your memories.

From Carter, take State Highway 32 south 1 mile. The parking area is on the west side of the highway. A sign with trail map is at the trailhead. To get to the east portion of the trail from the parking lot you must cross over State Highway 32. Be cautious

for high-speed traffic. The trail section to the east to McCaslin Mountain is 6/10ths of a mile. The section to the west to Carter Tower site is 3/4ths of a mile.

Mountain Fire Lookout Tower -- Then it’s off to Mountain Fire Lookout Tower to experience another bird’s eye view of the Northwoods’ natural beauty. The Mountain Fire Lookout Tower delivers a spectacular panorama of the east side of the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest. To reach the 7-by-7foot lookout perch, you will have to climb 132 steps.

The 100-foot-high steel tower was built in 1935 by the U.S. Forest Service and Civilian Conservation Corps. Just the 41st lookout tower registered in the U.S., the tower is listed on the National Historic Lookout Register and the National Register of Historic Places. The Lakewood-Laona Ranger District re stored the tower in 2015-16.

Early October is typically the time of year when fall foliage is at its peak in Oconto County. The lookout tower is located 2.5 miles north of Mountain off Forest Road 2106/Old 32 on the Lakewood-Laona Ranger District. It’s open from 8 a.m. until sunset until Oct. 31. Visiting the site is free, but donations are appreciated.

Butler Rock – Hike up the recently developed out-and-back trail to Butler Rock, in the town of Brazeau, to reach the county’s highest point. This two-mile sand trek is not for the faint-heart ed, but the views are spectacular. Directions: In Mountain, turn right onto Old 64 Road/Old Hwy. 64, sharp right onto Butler Rock Road and turn left onto Butler Rock Lookout Lane.

Tour the Nicolet-Wolf River Scenic Byway

Autumn is an excellent time to tour the Nicolet-Wolf River Scenic Byway and to see the fall colors during a time known as Col orama. The bulk of the scenic byway is located in Forest County, with segments in Langlade, Oneida and Vilas counties.

The Nicolet-Wolf River Scenic Byway is located in the heart of the majestic Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest and home to the headwaters of the pristine Wolf River. About 95% of the Wolf River watershed is wooded and wild.

A variety of recreational opportunities are available to travelers ranging from activities on the extensive multi-use trail systems to water-based sports during the warmer months. You’ll find hiking and biking trails where you’ll discover the beauty of the North woods. There are shopping opportunities at unique shops and at tractions to visit along the route.

The route winds through the National Forest and various small communities, including Langlade, Hollister, Lily, Pickerel, Mole Lake, Crandon, Argonne, Alvin, and Nelma on WIS 55; Choate on WIS 52; Hiles, Carter, Wabeno, Padus, and Laona on WIS 32, as well as the Sokaogon Chippewa and the Forest County Potawatomi communities.

The route offers a variety of historic and cultural sites, rustic roads, many waterways and an abundance of wildlife. Attractions include the Ice Age Trail, the Wolf River State Trail, the historic Dinesen House in Mole Lake and the Forest County Potawatomi Cultural Center near Crandon. The region’s logging heritage comes alive at the Lumberjack Steam Train and Camp 5 Museum complex in Laona, and the Wabeno Logging Museum. Stop in Argonne and view the new mural in front of the Hiles town hall on Hwy. 32. The eight-foot high, multi-panel mural showcases the town’s early days, the appreciation of Native American cul ture and traditions, and the exceptional recreational opportunities in the area. The “World’s Largest Soup Kettle” can be found in Laona.

Check out the website and interactive map at nicolet-wolfriv er-scenicbyway.com to plan your fall adventure and future trips to the Northwoods.

Northeast Region

Northcentral Region

Calendar

Oct. 6-9

Pumpkin Run ATV/UTV Rally Showcases Area’s Scenic Trails

MERCER – It’ll be four days of ATV/UTV adventures and fun when the annual Pumpkin Run ATV/UTV Rally is held in Iron County the extended weekend of Oct. 6-9. The event is family-friendly and is a favorite of riders.

Register for the event at either the Mercer or Hurley chambers of commerce. The poker run (two sets of stops) starts Thursday, Oct. 6 and ends Sunday, Oct. 9. Prizes will be awarded to the top five hands. Last year’s top winner took home a cool $600!

Friday and Saturday are packed with fun events, as well as riding the great trails and routes throughout the county. The rally takes place during the peak of fall color, so bring your camera! Another great photo opportunity is the world’s larg est loon – Claire d’ Loon – located next to the Mercer Chamber office.

Friday afternoon’s lineup includes the ATV, UTV and lawn tractor pulls from 2-6 p.m. The Tuscobia Trails ATV Association is bringing its custom-built pull sled to Mercer for this event. There will be separate divisions with multiple classes. The event takes place at Liberty Way Tap House on the corner of Saarnio Road and Highway 51, off trail 17.

The Great Pumpkin Parade through downtown Mercer will be Saturday with line-up at 4 p.m. at the Mercer DNR Ranger Station parking lot at 5291 N State House Circle. Riders are encouraged to decorate their vehicles and wear cos tumes in keeping with a Halloween theme. Prizes will be awarded. There is no cost to participate in the 5 p.m. parade. Everyone is invited afterward to the “pumpkin party” at the Liberty Way Tap House.

There will be live music and food/drink specials at various venues throughout the county during the Pumpkin Run.

Oct. 7-9 Oct. 8 Oct. 8 Oct. 8 Oct. 14-15 Oct. 15 Antigo -- Craft Fair Oct. 15 Wausau – Red Granite Grinder Bike Race Oct. 15-16 Minocqua – “Almost” Winter Dryland Dogsled Race Oct. 29 Land O’ Lakes – Zombie Crawl Oct. 29 Park Falls – Festival of Fright Oct. 29 Tomahawk -- Fall Fest Oct. 29 Eagle River -- Hallofest Oct. 31 Presque Isle – Halloween Spooktacular Nov. 5 Elcho – Craft Fair & Vendor Fair Nov. 5 Merrill – Fall Moonlight Festival Nov. 5-6 Pearson – Sled Dog Races Nov. 12 Merrill – Fall Craft Shows Nov. 12 St. Germain – Christmas Bazaar Nov. 12 Eagle River – Old Fashioneds Up North Nov. 18 Rhinelander – Downtown Holiday Open House Nov. 18 Tomahawk – Venison Feed Nov. 19 Eagle River – Wi-Does Wine Walk Nov. 24 Minocqua – Turkey Trot 5K Nov. 24 Park Falls – Turkey Trot 5K Run/Walk Nov. 25 Boulder Junction –Christmas Walk, Cookie Walk

Nov. 25 Tomahawk – Christmas Tree Lighting Nov. 25-27Christmas in Downtown Sayner-Star Lake Nov. 26 St. Germain – Jingle Bell Fun Run Nov. 26 St. Germain – Holiday Celebration Nov. 26 Minocqua -- Christmas in Minocqua Area Nov. 26 Land O’ Lakes – Breakfast with Santa Dec. 2 Phillips – Christmas Parade Dec. 3 Merrill – Christmas Parade, O’Tannenbaum Tour, Luminaria Dec. 3 Mercer – Winter Wonderland Dec. 3 Eagle River – Christmas Kickoff

Muskie Madness ChallengeTournament Fast Approaching

MERCER – The lakes in and around Mercer are renowned for their healthy muskie populations – some of which are true trophies. One of those rod-benders could be on the end of your line if you take part in the annual Mercer Muskie Madness Challenge tournament, hosted by Gateway Lodge & Resort in Mercer.

This year’s tournament will be Friday and Saturday, Oct. 14 & 15. The wrap-up banquet will be Saturday night at the Gate way. Fishing hours are 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday and 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday. A unique feature of this catch-and-release tour nament is that each team member may have two lines in the water using one artificial bait and one live bait. But no trolling is allowed.

Eligible tournament lakes are Turtle Flambeau Flowage, Fish er, Spider, Oxbow, Echo, Grand Portage, Pike Lake, Mercer, Lake of the Falls, Catherine, Cedar and Trude Lake, according to tournament director Wayne Riebe of Gateway Lodge.

The event supports the Wounded Warriors in Action charity and Camp Ryan Adams. For more information contact the Gateway Lodge at 715-476-7878 or e-mail info@thegatewaylodge.com or visit mercermuskiemadness.com.

Check Out These Festive Events

Autumn brings a tantalizing array of fun events for families and couples to enjoy. Here’s a sampling of those events. Go to our calendar of events for more possibilities.

BOULDER JUNCTION – This community’s 27th annual Harvest Fest will be Saturday, Oct. 8 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Ev eryone is invited to “Shop the Haystack” at Peeple’s Park and to take part in the scavenger hunt. Children can visit Granny Au tumn for planned activities, as well as stopping by at the public library for the “fall book walk.” Deb Lund’s artwork will be on display also at the library. There will be live music, games, fall treats and more at Harvest Fest.

THREE LAKES – The Three Lakes Pumpkin Fest on Satur day, Oct. 8 features a juried craft show with nearly 100 vendors inside the Three Lakes High School from 9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. There will be a farmer’s market outside. The kitchen will tempt you with brats, hot dogs, chili and five different homemade soups. A special treat will be the freshly baked (and huge!) cin namon rolls. Suggested admission is by a non-perishable food item for the local food pantry.

TOMAHAWK – Downtown Tomahawk will be decorated for the autumn season during its Fall Fest celebration on Saturday,

Oct. 29, from 1-3 p.m. There will be activities for kids of all ages. Retail businesses and restaurants will have specials. The down town businesses also host trick-or-treat during the same hours. Look for window signs for participating businesses. The following month, downtown Tomahawk will become a sea of blaze orange as hunters gather for the annual venison feed. The 2022 version will be Friday, Nov. 18 (always the day before the gun-deer season opener). They will serve venison burgers (mixed with hamburger for texture and taste) from 11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m., or ‘till gone! They also hand out a soda and a bag of chips with each burger. This year, those 21 and older can also purchase beer. It’s a festive way to kick off the season in downtown Toma hawk—put on the blaze orange and pick up your burger!

PARK FALLS – Over at Park Falls on Saturday, Oct. 29, it will be busy with events and other happenings during the annual Fright Fest sponsored by the Park Falls Chamber of Commerce. Sign up for the 10 a.m. Haunted Trail 5K. The Park Theatre is hosting a free movie at 1 p.m. Drop by Triangle Park for the 3 p.m. pumpkin drop! Then at 4 p.m., the “trunk or treat” will be held in the downtown. There will be hayrides, games, photo op portunities, costume contest and booth decoration.

Start a New Family Tradition at Wildwood

MINOCQUA – There’s just something magical about exploring a pumpkin patch in the fall. And what kid doesn’t enjoy coming to a pumpkin patch for that perfect pumpkin to take home!

Start a new family tradition this fall by visiting the Pumpkin Patch at Wildwood Wildlife Park Zoo & Safari in Minocqua, with hours from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on both Saturday and Sunday, Oct. 8 and 9. Tram rides will take visitors to and from the pumpkin patch.

For those 12 and older, admission is $10 (11 and under is $5). Vis itors can pick their own pumpkin ($5 each). In addition to finding that perfect pumpkin, there will be games for the youngsters. Bring a nonperishable food item for local food pantries and receive game tickets.

Bring a camera to capture a photo of your kids with their pump kins. Refreshments will also be available. Please note, cash only for this event. Wildwood is located just west of Minocqua on High way 70 West.

Color Your World With Art

MULTI-COUNTIES – The North Woods Fall Art Tour, Oct. 7-9, is an easy and enjoyable way to meet dozens of artists in galleries and studios tucked under majestic pine trees and in quaint com munities throughout Vilas, Oneida, Iron, Langlade and Lincoln counties.

You’re sure to find unique gifts or something special for your home or office that will elevate your spirit and your space. The tour of open houses comprises 36 sites where you can craft your itinerary as time and interest allow. Tour maps are available at local chambers of commerce or go to northwoodsarttour.com to download one. The map includes descriptions and directions to each site. Please come prepared to honor all face mask requests.

Hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., which gives you time to grab break fast and to enjoy dinner afterwards. Drive the colorful back roads (it’s the peak of colorama!) and get a behind-the-scenes view of how the artists create original art.

Chat with painters in oil, acrylic, watercolor and pastel; potters, photographers, carvers, jewelers, quilters, weavers, woodwork ers, stained and hot glass artists, printmakers, sculptors and gourd designers in their studios. Some will be demonstrating their tech niques.

Three Eagle Half Marathon

THREE LAKES – Spread your wings, eh.., feet at the ninth annual Three Eagle Half Marathon & 5K on Saturday, Oct. 8 at Three Lakes. Start time is 9 a.m. The races will take place on the pristine Three Eagle Trail, a 13.1-mile crushed limestone trail connecting the towns of Eagle River and Three Lakes. The trail will be adorned by the peak fall colors. This is a chiptimed, point-to-point race. There will be mile markers, porta ble toilets and aid stations along the route. Funds raised will benefit the Three Eagle Trail and the Three Lakes track & field, cross country, and track club programs. For registration and more information, visit 3eaglehalf.com.

It’s Dog-Powered Adventure at Pearson

PEARSON -- Come experience the excitement of sled dog racing on dry land at the Ma-Ka-Ja-Wan Boy Scout Reserva tion on Saturday and Sunday, Nov. 5 & 6. Of note, there’s no snow and cold expected but a sweater or jacket is suggested as the weekend may be chilly at times. The Dirty Dog Dryland Derby features teams with bikes, scooters, carts, and dogs part nered with running mushers. There will also be a cani-fun run/ walk on Saturday afternoon.

Dryland racing (or training) is a sport that combines athletic prowess from both a human and their canine companion. You can run with a dog (canicross) or be pulled by your dog(s) on a bike, scooter or cart. Some classes require only one dog but in others you may have 2, 4, 8 or even more.

Spectator admission is free and visitors are encouraged to visit with drivers and smooze with their dogs at their trucks too! Races start at 9 a.m. on both days. Home-cooked food service will be available at the race site. There’s free admission and plenty of parking is available. Don’t forget your camera.

The race site is north of Antigo. Turn east off Highway 45 on County T toward Pearson. Stay on County T through Pearson. Look for signs and turn left off County T to race site (W6500 Spring Lake Road, Pearson).

Pine Line Rail Trail -- From Locomotive to Locomotion

PRICE AND TAYLOR COUNTIES –- You won’t hear the lonesome train whistle while mountain bike riding or hiking on the Pine Line Rail Trail, but you can whistle a tune as you travel along it.

This rail-to-trail features stands of white pines in the north and picturesque dairy farms in the south. Located on the former Wis consin Central, Ltd. section, it runs a full marathon length (26.2 miles) from just south of Prentice in Price County to Medford in Taylor County.

The northern trailhead and the southern trailhead offer lodging, dining, parking and other ser vices. You’ll find limited services in smaller communities along the way. Camping is available at Pio neer Park & Campground in Oge ma located one block off the trail.

During the warmer months, the trail is open to non-motorized use such as bicycling, hiking, horseback riding and wildlife viewing. There are no fees for trail use. The trail surface for much of the route is crushed gravel with about five miles surfaced with limestone screenings beginning in Medford.

The trail in Price and Taylor counties is open to snowmobiles and

ATVs/UTVs from December through March when the tempera ture is below 28 degrees. ATVs/UTVs are allowed on the trails during those conditions only in Price County.

About the trail

The trail is named for the huge quantities of eastern white pine that were shipped on the route between 1876 and 1988 by the Wisconsin Central Railway. After the railroad abandoned the line, the rails were torn up and the rail bed converted to a multi-use recreation trail. The Price-Taylor Rail Trail Commission maintains the trail.

The northern portion of the trail runs through the terminal moraine left by the last Wisconsin glacier some 12,000 years ago. Hardwood and white pine forests cover the hummocks and hills. A restored railroad depot in Ogema is a perfect place for a photograph. The northern forests give way to flatter landscapes of neat and picturesque dairy farms and wetlands in the south. Many active beaver dams can be seen adjacent to the trail and the trail crosses several brooks.

Parking for the trail is available at the Allman Street trailhead in Medford, on municipal streets in Ogema, Westboro, Chelsea, the Whittlesey parking lot and the Buccaneer Park trailhead on Morner Road in Prentice.

Community Christmas Parade

ANTIGO -- Mark the calendar to return to Langlade County for the annual Antigo holiday parade on Wednesday, Dec. 7. It will feature more than 40 floats with lights, sights and sounds of Christmas. Entries will include the Antigo High School marching band, color guard and the arrival of Santa. This year’s holiday parade theme is “The Twelve Days of Christmas.” The parade starts at 6:30 p.m. and goes through down town Antigo.

There’s an added bonus for locals and visitors the same day as the Christmas parade. Downtown Anti go will get a little “chili” as the An tigo/Langlade County Chamber will present its 25th annual Chili Cookoff. Teams will compete to find out who has the best chili in Langlade County. Chili samples will be hand ed out to the public at 5:30 p.m.

Northwest Region

Calendar

Oct. 8 Oct. 8

Oct. 8 Amery – Stower Trail Bike Ride/Walk

Oct. 15 Ashland – WhistleStop Marathon/Half-Marathon

Oct. 15 Cable – Fall ATV/UTV Ride

Oct. 15 Milltown – Pumpkin Fest

Oct. 21 Cable – “Fun in the Forest” ATV Benefit

Oct. 15 & 16 St. Croix Falls – Oktoberfest Wine Festival

Oct. 28 Chetek – Beer Crawl

Nov. 12 Cushing – Venison Feed

Nov. 17 Rice Lake – Hunters Feed

Nov. 22 Amery – Parade of Lights & Chili Feed

Nov. 24 Spooner – Tozer Turkey Trot

Nov. 26 Winter – Craft Show

Dec. 1 Clayton – Community Tree Lighting

Dec. 3 Amery – Holiday Stroll

Dec. 3 Ashland – Christmas Parade

Dec. 3 Frederic – Christmas in Frederic Dec. 3 Dresser – Vintage Sled Extravaganza

Dec. 3 Centuria – Cozy Country Christmas

Dec. 3 St. Croix Falls – Rivertown Holiday Celebration

Dec. 3 Shell Lake – Holiday Saturday

A Perfect Pair – Autumn and Chateau St. Croix Winery

ST. CROIX FALLS – The countryside will be painted in lush autumn colors when you visit the Chateau St. Croix Winery & Vineyard in St. Croix Falls this October. The winery is doubling down by offering wine lovers ample reasons to visit them during their Oktoberfest Wine Festival the weekend of Oct. 15 and 16. Admission is free.

Gather up family and friends for an afternoon of authentic Ger man foods, Hammerschlagen, Octoberfest beer, craft hard cider and of course great wines. Enjoy live music under the big tent, featuring a double header of the legendary Gray’s Ridgeland Dutchman back-to-back on Oct. 15 and 16.

With a purchase of a glass of wine, you can try Federweisser from noon to 6 p.m. Federweisser is a fermenting white wine that is semi-sweet and refreshing. This is a German tradition that you will love. Wine will available by the glass or bottle. Sorry, there’s no tastings available during this event.

Then return on Saturday, Oct. 29 to Chateau St. Croix Winery for a Halloween bash. Enjoy Horror d’oeuvres and sip on devilishly

delicious wine. Wine-O-Ween will also feature dress-up prizes for single best costume and couple’s best costume. You can do the Monster Mash with music by Hank the Tank music show from 7-11 p.m. They will provide a complimentary drink and shuttle to the Holiday Inn and Suites in St. Croix Falls. Attendance is limited, so it’s best to get your tickets in advance.

For those that are looking for something to do while your loved ones are out hunting in November the Chateau is hosting cheese and chocolate wine pairings on Nov. 5 and 6 and then again on Nov. 19 and 20. Come try some of the best cheese samples, fea turing Burnett Dairy, paired with whites, rose and red wines. Then for the sweet tooth lovers there will be chocolates, chocolate cakes and Saras Tipsy Pies paired with wines. This is a ticketed event, so go to the Chateau St. Croix and check for the ticket link.

The winery is located at 1998 State Road 87 #A. For more infor mation, call 715-483-2556 or visit online at chateaustcroix.com.

A Festive Time for All This Fall

CUSHING – The Cushing Fire Department welcomes all to their annual venison feed on Saturday, Nov. 12. The fundraiser starts at 4 p.m. at the community center and includes bingo, raffles, prize drawings, auction and food, including hamburgers and drinks.

MILLTOWN – Kids 12 and under will get a free pumpkin when their families travel to Milltown for the annual Pumpkin Fest on Saturday, Oct. 15. The event will be from 1-3 p.m. in Bering Park. The festival features pumpkins, scarecrows, trike races, corn pit, trunk and treat, costume contest, food and music.

WINTER – The 35th annual “Homespun Holi days” Arts & Craft Show in Winter will be Saturday, Nov. 26, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., at the Winter School. The Winter Area Chamber of Commerce is sponsoring the event, which features more than 90 vendors offering hand-crafted items.

Visitors will Gush Over These Waterfalls

Region

MULTI-COUNTY – Go with the flow! The greater Cable and Hayward area offers fall hikers and waterfalls lovers numerous options to enjoy the Northwoods before the landscape turns white. Early to mid-October is a perfect time to explore these waterfalls, enhanced by the fall leaf colors. Bring a camera and capture the memories to share with family and friends.

Speaking of flow, water creates its own path to its final destina tion, as it carves its way through soil and rock over the eons. The Cable Area is referred to as “The Great Divide,” a term that de scribes geographical point where waters split and either run south to the Mississippi or north to Lake Superior.

Like fingerprints, each waterfall is unique. Some roar like the lion; others whisper as to not disturb the forest creatures. Copper Falls State Park, named after the copper-colored water cascading down brownstone rocks, has limestone pathways directly from the parking lot through the park allowing easier access for those with limited mobility.

St. Peter’s Dome, the 1,600-foot-high granite dome is the high est point in the Chequamegon Nicolet National Forest. St. Peter’s Dome is an approximately 3.6-mile round-trip hike from the small parking lot. The trail to St. Peter’s Dome is fairly rugged with exposed rock and steep climbs. But it’s well worth the effort. On a clear day one can see Lake Superior and the Apostle Islands over 20 miles to the north. Morgan Falls at St. Peter’s Dome cascades some 70 feet off a rock cliff to a small shaded pool. Morgan Falls is rated amongst the tallest waterfalls in Wisconsin, but the flow tapers off in drier months. Morgan Falls is a half-mile mile hike from the parking lot.

Some of the most spectacular waterfalls are located along the south shore of Lake Superior in Ashland, Bayfield, Douglas and Iron counties. State and county parks usually provide public ac cess, although private property border some of the falls. Be sure to stay on established trails and take caution at water’s edge. Some locations are remote and require hiking across difficult terrain. Check with local chambers of commerce for directions and sug gestions, including of smaller, scenic waterfalls. Pack a picnic and go enjoy the natural beauty of the Northern Wisconsin waterfalls!

Wisconsin’s Highest Waterfalls

Big Manitou Falls -- Douglas County: 165 ft.

Morgan Falls -- Ashland County: 70 ft.

Superior Falls -- Iron County: 90 ft.

Potato Falls -- Iron County: 90 ft.

Saxon Falls -- Iron County: 90 ft.

Copper Falls -- Ashland County: 40 ft.

Peterson Falls -- Iron County: 35 ft.

Brownstone Falls -- Ashland County: 30 ft.

Little Manitou Falls -- Douglas County: 30 ft.

Foster Falls -- Iron County: 25 ft.

Photo by Eric Reischl

U.P.RegionMichigan

Calendar

Oct. 7 Ironwood – Plaidurday Celebration

Oct. 8 Crystal Falls – Haunted Nights

Oct. 14 L’Anse – Boo on the Bay

Oct. 22 Hurley – Spooky Halloween Trail Walk

Oct. 31 Marenisco – Halloween Hayride & Trunk or Treat

Nov. 17 Ironwood – Tree Lighting Ceremony

Nov. 17-Jan. 28 Ironwood and Area – Jack Frost Festival

Nov. 19 Crystal Falls – Buck Fest

Nov. 19 Ewen/Trout Creek – Christmas Bazaar

Nov. 19 Iron River – Holiday Art, Craft, Bake Sale

Nov. 26-Dec. 4 Caspian – Christmas Tree Galleria

Plan a Color Tour in Iron County

IRON COUNTY, MI – Fall leaf colors in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan should still be at their peak the first week or so of Oc tober, and there’s no better place to see them than in Iron County. Iron County boasts an abundance of tree species that participate in the smooth transition of color, so traveling anywhere in the county during a color tour can provide breath-taking scenery.

Historically, the color tour seasons starts mid-September and runs for almost three weeks – putting the first week or so of October in the window of opportunity. Even when the majority of leaves fade, there will still be pockets of color to enjoy.

Region

Contact the Iron County Economic Chamber Alliance in Iron River (888-TRY-IRON or e-mail info@iron.org) as you plan a leaf-peeping trip there. With above-average temperatures predict ed this fall for the northern tier of the continental U.S. the foliage change may be delayed.

Book your getaway accommodations and to get your started on your journey, here are a few suggestions from the local chamber:

Head west over the rolling hills of US-2 or travel north on either Forest Highway 16 or US-141. Those stretches feature some of the more “mountainous” regions of the county, for views of reds, oranges, and yellows in the valleys and hills.

Taking the main road east will bring travelers to some of the highest spots in Iron County. The zenith of the 4-lane of US-2 between Iron River and Crystal Falls will provide an expansive picture that covers miles of territory.

US-2 east, M-189 south and M-73 south all provide their unique opportunities for a color tour supreme. Whether you want to see color up-close — or prefer a panoramic color — the highways will offer you a view to behold.

Also, consider a trip to the county courthouse, which, from the upper levels, offers a breathtaking view of the landscape. It’s lo cated in Crystal Falls.

Christmas Tree Galleria

Later in the season, come back for the 33rd annual Christmas Tree Galleria set for Saturday, Nov. 26 through Sunday, Dec. 4, at the Iron County Historical Museum in Caspian. The galleria will be open daily from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Daily offerings throughout the galleria will include a display of more than 40 decked-out themed Christmas trees decorated by lo cal businesses and groups, a gift basket raffle, and complimentary treats. For more details on the event and to purchase gift basket raffle tickets, go to ironcountymuseum.org/galleria, the muse um’s Facebook page, e-mail info@ironcountymuseum.org or call 906-265-2617.

The Iron County Museum is one of the largest outdoor museum complexes in the U.P. and is the designated “Log Cabin Capital of Michigan” with more historic log structures than any place in the state. Some of the most popular exhibits include: Carrie Ja cobs-Bond House, Stager Depot, St. Mary’s Church, Toti’s Tav ern, Pioneer School House, Giovanelli Studio and Gallery, Lee LeBlanc Memorial Art Gallery.

It’s (Still) a Good Day to Ride

PAULDING AND BESSEMER – Locals know that the first week or so of October offers the best fall colors in the Upper Pen insula. There means lots of good days to twist the throttle on your bike and explore the attractions and biker-friendly places of the Upper Peninsula.

You will easily fill your day with straightaways and twisting turns on low-traveled roads in the UP. We found a couple of recom mended tours for you.

The first option is tied to the beautiful waterfalls north of Besse mer and Watersmeet. Start the ride where US 2 and M-45 intersect in Watersmeet. Take M-45 north to Paulding. Look for the Bond Falls sign, turn right and take in this 50-foot beauty of rushing water. Parking is available both above and below the falls. (Fee for parking below.)

As you return south and go west on US 2 look for the Big Powderhorn Mountain Resort sign. Turn into the entrance, follow the road to the t-inter section and take a left onto Black River Road. Along the way you will see the massive Copper Peak flying ski jump. Then along the nearly 14-mile-long Black River Scenic By way stop to see five amazing waterfalls — Great Conglomerate, Potawatomi, Gorge, Sandstone and Rainbow.

At Black River Harbor on Lake Superior there’s a suspension bridge (foot traffic only) that spans the mouth of the Black Riv er. It takes you to a beach that is popular place for “pretty rock” hunting. There is a $5 per vehicle day-use fee for the picnic area.

IRONWOOD -- Another great ride takes you on a 50-mile tour north and west of Ironwood. You begin in Ironwood at the inter section of US 2 and Lake Road (the Holiday Gas Station is there). Take Lake Road north for about 15 miles. At this point you will enter the Gogebic County Forest to begin your gentle descent to the south shore of Lake Superior.

As you continue on Lake Road (513) you will come to Little Girls Point. Take some time to walk the beach and listen to the waves of the Big Lake. This stretch of land was the site of Indian villages and resting points for the Jesuit missionaries, most notably Father Jacques Marquette, as they traveled from St. Ignace to Madeline Island in 1669.

Hop back on the bike and head west to Superior Falls and the mouth of the Montreal River. This is another good spot to explore.

As you cross the Montreal River you will enter Wisconsin.

Shortly after this, watch for the Saxon Harbor signs. This place is part of the Old Flambeau Trail serving the Chippewa from LaPointe to Lac du Flambeau. As you return to the main road you will come to Hwy. 2, turn left and return to Ironwood. Stop for a bite to eat, and look for a motel to continue your adventures the next day.

U.P.’s Split Rock Trails Include Scenic Overlooks

WAKEFIELD – The Split Rock Trails near Wakefield offer a beautiful forest tour, which includes scenic overlooks, wild flow ers including apple blossoms in the spring, lilacs and lupines, var ious rock formations and remnants of a once thriving U.P. mining town.

The trail system offers a fun outing for hikers, mountain bikers and trail runners (and snowshoers when winter arrives). The trails are mapped and color-coded for different skill levels. But even the “difficult” and “expert” sections are only about one-third mile in length. Trail users will find the rest of the 2.8 miles of trails to be easy.

The trail system gets its moniker from the actual splitting of rock that occurred years ago in relation to the now defunct Sunday Lake Mine, which operated in the region from 1885 to 1961, ac cording to the local newspaper.

Directions: From Wakefield, follow Putnam Street to Castile Road. Turn left onto Sunday Lake Mine Road and follow sign to the right directing visitors to the trailhead parking in the warmer months. Trail maps are available at the Wakefield Visitors and Information Center.

And Away We Go Mountain Bikers!

IRONWOOD – Be among the first to ride the new, profession ally built mountain biking trails in Ironwood’s Miner’s Memorial Heritage Park this fall.

Depending on when you read this, the new seven miles of ma chine-built mountain bike trail should be ready, or nearly so, to welcome riders sometime in October. (Check travelironwood. com for updates.) Designed and constructed by Flowtrack Moun tain Bike Trails, LLC, these single-track trails will include a be ginner trail, as well as intermediate-rated trails.

In addition, a new trailhead parking lot at the Ayer/Bonnie Road intersection allows easy access to the park trails, as well as to picnic tables, a bike fix-it station and outdoor grill. Three more miles of trail, with a special skills course, will be completed in the

spring of 2023. The project calls for several trailheads around the park, as well as a link and trailhead on the Iron Belle Trail north of the site. You can now visit downtown Ironwood, hop on your bike and in minutes enjoy some great riding on these trails.

The 167-acre park, located in the center of the city, was once the location of numerous historical mining operations. The park this past summer hosted “Art in the Park,” a created art/nature event that was part of Ironwood’s Emberlight Festival. With the completion of the new bike trails, Miner’s Park offers not only miles of hiking/snowshoeing trails, but a completely new outdoor biking recreational experience. Whether you are a mountain biker (just learning or very experienced), hiker, or snowshoe devote, you won’t want to miss the Miner Park experience -- one that is available year-round.

Jack Frost Festival Welcomes the Holiday Season with Fun Activities

IRONWOOD – The Jack Frost Festival in Ironwood is a multiweek celebration of winter sports, outdoor recreation and holiday excitement. As a community Christmas present like no other, Jack Frost Festival events begin Thursday, Nov. 17 at 6 p.m. with the Jack Frost Festival tree lighting ceremony in Ironwood’s Depot Park. The festival ends with the “Light Up the Night” Christmas tree burning ceremony on the last Saturday of January.

Along the way, visitors and locals can marvel at the offerings: Concerts, Christmas movies at the Historic Ironwood Theatre, Pro-Vintage snowmobile races, SISU Ski Fest, craft fairs and the much-anticipated Jack Frost Festival of Lights Parade on Saturday, Dec. 3 in downtown Ironwood. Be sure to check out the Northern Elves Holiday Market. Santa and Mrs. Claus have marked their calendar to visit children at this festival. Take a chance on the chamber’s $10,000 Jack Frost raffle. Top prize with all 200 tickets sold is a cool $5,000!

As noted, the parade takes place on Dec. 3, at 6 p.m., in down town Ironwood. But before it gets underway, there’s the 5:30 p.m. Santa Dash, where participants in paper Santa costumes and fake beards will race from the Ironwood Carnegie Library, down Aurora Street, to City Square. Then the brightly lit parade units (more than 40 last year) will begin their march. And no Jack Frost Parade would be complete without the Precision Snow Shovel Drill Team displaying intricate group marching maneuvers and amazing snow shovel techniques! Yep, we’re Yoopers and our blood type runs a bit crazy!

The full schedule of events, including times, is posted on the Ironwood Chamber of Commerce website: ironwoodchamber. org/jack-frost-festival/.

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