Summer is a great time to visit the Minocqua area, with so many great activities and attractions here for the whole family, the biggest problem is deciding what to do. Here are 10 ideas that won't disappoint.
1. Fred Scheer's Lumberjack Show. This fast-paced show for all ages showcases professional lumberjacks competing in 10 events such as logrolling and pole-climbing. In between events, the emcee dishes out interesting tidbits about the lumberjack era, along with campy jokes. Kids love the "Yo-Ho!" lumberjack shouting contest, and a few lucky ones get to help work a crosscut saw during intermission.
2. Canoe Trip. For families with older kids, paddle 7.5 miles from the High Lake boat landing northeast of Boulder Junction to the portage just upstream from the Fishtrap Dam. You'll traverse High and Rush Lakes before gliding through a culvert and into Fishtrap Lake. From there you'll traverse Nixon Creek before arriving at the portage. Plan four hours of paddling, and perhaps turn the trip into an overnighter.
3. Northwoods Wildlife Center. Take a free tour of this wildlife facility, where injured and orphaned animals are tended. In summer, guided tours are held every 30 minutes Monday through Saturday. You can also attend twice-weekly nature programs on subjects such as birds of prey, wolf ecology and black bears.
4. Minocqua Pontoon Cruises. Putter along Minocqua's sparkling chain of lakes in a pontoon boat. Several relaxing cruises are held throughout the day, and include nature discussions. Helpful guides will assist you in spotting eagles and loons, plus point out historical boathouses. Into photography? Then sign on for the two-hour Sunset Special, where you'll be led to numerous scenic spots.
5. Go-Karting & Mini Golf
Add a little friendly competition to your family vacation with a round of mini golf or a race around the go-kart track. Rock Falls Riding Stables in Arbor Vitae offers both go-karts and a challenging 18-hole miniature golf course. For another putting adventure, head to Settlers Mill Adventure Golf & Frozen Custard in Minocqua, where an 18-hole course winds through a landscaped setting featuring waterfalls and babbling brooks. Whether you’re racing for bragging rights or trying for a hole-in-one, it’s an easy way to add some family fun to your Northwoods getaway.
6. Bearskin Trail. Cycling is a sport the whole family can enjoy, and the Bearskin Trail is the area's most popular venue. The 18-mile crushed red granite path runs from downtown Minocqua south to Harshaw, leading you through thick forests, past blue lakes and along Bearskin Creek. Pack a lunch and picnic en route. And keep an eye out for critters such as deer, raccoons, eagles and osprey. Hikers are welcome, too.
7. The Waters of Minocqua. Even when the weather doesn’t cooperate, the Minocqua area does not disappoint. Visit The Waters of Minocqua, which contains an indoor waterpark. Overnight guests receive free passes to the 10,000-square-foot play area, which includes two body slides, indoor-outdoor pools, a kiddie play area and hot tub. Walk-ins pay a modest daily fee. The resort also has an arcade, pub and café.
Put your family’s problem-solving skills to the test at The Key To Escape in downtown Minocqua. Work together to uncover clues, solve puzzles and crack the code before time runs out. It’s a fun way for families to team up, challenge their brains and enjoy an indoor activity when you’re ready for a break from the lakes and trails.
9. Minocqua Zoo. More than 1,000 animals call Wildwood home, including giraffes, tigers, zebras, kangaroos and leopards. Stroll through the park and see them all, then take in an educational program before heading for the interactive petting zoo. Guests can also feed trout, parakeets, giraffes and even bears.
10. Hit the Beach
Nothing says summer like a day at the beach. Pack the sunscreen, towels and a picnic, then spend the day swimming, building sandcastles or simply relaxing by the water. The Minocqua Area has plenty of family-friendly places to make a splash, including popular beaches at Torpy Park, Brandy Lake Park, Clear Lake and Big Arbor Vitae Lake.
