A three-day guide to exploring the trails and waterways of Rhinelander
Love the great outdoors? Rhinelander is the perfect place for a Northwoods getaway. Surrounded by lakes and trails, there’s plenty to see and do in Hogag County. Have just three days to explore? Here’s what you can do.
DAY 1
Afternoon
- Select an idyllic campsite under a canopy of ancient hemlocks. We have four great campgrounds to choose from.
- Hop on the mountain bikes and pedal into Rhinelander.
- Hit up Trig’s Foods or Bessey’s Meat Market to stock up on groceries for a fresh homemade dinner in camp.
Evening
- Enjoy a dinner cooked over the campfire.
- Go mountain biking on the 15-mile Washburn Lake Trail, located just outside of Rhinelander.
- Head back to camp and fall asleep under the stars.
Day 2
Morning
- As the sun rises over the banks of the lake, prepare a sunrise breakfast in camp.
- Paddle your way down the Pelican River or the Wisconsin River. If you need to rent a canoe or pick up some extra gear, stop at Mel’s Trading Post or Shoeder’s RV and Marine.
- Stop at a wide bend in the river to cast for smallmouth bass.
Afternoon
- Stop in town to have lunch at a great sandwich shop. Rhinelander offers several options.
- After lunch learn about the forest and the natural beauty of the Northwoods at the Ced A. Vig Outdoor Classroom (CAVOC).
- Finish off your afternoon with a scenic horseback ride along forest lined trails at Holiday Stables.
Evening
- Enjoy the sunset on a 2.25-mile hike along Almon Park Trail as you take in the beauty of the Northwoods.
- Head back to camp to enjoy a late dinner cooked over the open fire as you tell stories about your day around the campfire.
Day 3
Morning
- Get up early to take a walk along the lake as the sun rises. A Rhinelander sunrise is the perfect ending to your trip.
- Gather your tents, bikes, maps and binoculars and pack up the car.
- As you make your way out of town for a quick picture with the Hodag at the Rhinelander Chamber and Visitor’s Center to prove to all of your friends back home you saw the mythical forest creature.
