Is it your first time to the Northwoods? Or maybe you have a few short days to enjoy in the Minocqua area? Either way, there’s so many different activities to enjoy when you arrive that it can be overwhelming to decide what to do! To help you make the most of your time, we have included our favorite activities to enjoy in our communities of Minocqua, Arbor Vitae, and Woodruff. enjoy!

  1. Take a Dip. With one of the highest concentrations of freshwater lakes, rivers and streams in the world, you cannot visit the Minocqua area and not get wet! Whether you seek the excitement of a speed boat, waterskiing or wakeboarding, or prefer the serenity of kayaking or canoeing … jump in and enjoy the clean, clear waters of the Northwoods!
  2. Enjoy a Min-Aqua Bat show. Head over to the aqua Bowl on any Monday, Wednesday or Friday evening in the summer to enjoy a performance by the local waterski club. Going strong for more than 65 years, this team of local youth thrill audiences with their performances each and every show.
  3. Pass the Relish Tray. Never had the experience of enjoying a relish tray? Then you haven’t been to an authentic Northwoods supper club. Friday fish fry, Saturday night prime rib — you’ll find a relish try delivered to your table featuring a variety of vegetables, crackers, dips and maybe some pickled beets or asparagus. We prefer the trays be placed on a lazy susan to allow for easier access at the table!
  4. Drop a Line. With so many lakes, rivers and streams, you’ll find the Northwoods to be a great destination for the angler in your family. Whether from the shore or by boat, the fish are usually biting! (note those ages 16 and older require fishing licenses, and bag limits apply to most species.)
  5. Paddle ‘N Portage. Looking for a lake where you’re lucky to see another human? Minocqua is your destination. There are hundreds of small lakes throughout the area, many located in the northern Highland American Legion State Forest, where you can launch your canoe or kayak and find company with the resident wildlife.
  6. Listen for a Loon. The distinctive trill of a loon echoing over a lake is an authentic Northwoods experience. The majestic beauties are agile divers, who often disappear under the water, only to reappear moments later a considerable distance away from where you last saw them.
  7. Take a Boathouse Tour. Dozens of beautiful boathouses line the shores of lakes in the Minocqua area. take a boat cruise to see all of the unique structures, like the Lambert boathouse across from Torpy Park, the Beacons’ boathouse (dating back to 1908) or the iconic Red Eagle’s Nest boathouse on the south side of Lake Minocqua.
  8. Bike the Bearskin Trail. More than 100 miles of paved bicycle trails crisscross the Northwoods, however, the 18-mile crushed granite Bearskin trail follows an old rail corridor along the Bearskin creek. It offers a scenic ride across trestle bridges, allowing for viewing of deer and other natural residents.
  9. More S’mores, Please. sitting around a campfire is a requirement of any Northwoods getaway. chocolate, graham crackers, marshmallows, a good stick and a crackling fire — that’s all you need to create memories your family will recall for years to come.
  10. Toes in Sand.  Head down to Torpy Park, located on the north side of the island, where you will find a beautiful sand beach. Pack a lunch and enjoy it under the shelter; the kids can let loose at the playground.