Where to Find Late-fall Fun in the Rhinelander Area

Just because the fall colors have faded doesn’t mean the fun has to stop! In Rhinelander, late fall offers hiking and paddling adventures, lakeside relaxation, cozy cafés, unique downtown shops, and plenty more to enjoy before winter sets in.

On the trails

Bundle up and lace up your walking shoes or hiking boots and take a walk in the crisp fall air in the Rhinelander Area this season. Hodag Country is home to some great walking and hiking trails that are a great way to get out and see nature in the Northwoods. The Dr. Richard Nelson Trails at Nicolet College offer 2 miles of trail, from beginner to intermediate difficulty. The Washburn Lake Trail west of Rhinelander runs through a hilly, heavily forested section of the Northwoods. Hodag Park is a popular walking spot and offers outstanding views of Boom Lake just north of downtown Rhinelander.

See more Rhinelander Area hiking trails here.

ATVers and UTVers will find great trails to ride around Rhinelander, too. The Enterprise Trail, located just south of Rhinelander along Highway 17, stretches through Oneida County’s forests and consists of 19 miles of woods trails, 4 miles of connecting road routes, and 27 miles of county forest roads. The trail is also home to a dedicated ATV/UTV campground and connects to trail systems in Lincoln County and Langlade County.

Learn more about ATVing & UTVing in Rhinelander.

On the lakes

Fall is a great time to fish the Northwoods—lakes are less busy, fall colors provide a stunning backdrop for your day on the lake, and fish are hungry and bulking up for winter. Rhinelander is home to several popular, easy-to-access fishing lakes, including Boom Lake, Lake George, Lake Julia, and the Willow Flowage. Anglers can go after walleye, bass, northern pike, bluegill, and musky. And if you don’t want to fish that’s fine, too—Rhinelander’s lakes offer lots of great boating opportunities as well.

Learn more about fishing and boating in Rhinelander.

Rhinelander’s lakes and rivers also offer exceptional fall paddling opportunities for canoers and kayakers. Paddle down the Pelican River, explore the vast Willow Flowage, or launch your canoe from the shore at Hodag Park and spend the day on Boom Lake and the Wisconsin River.

Learn more about canoeing and kayaking in Rhinelander.

Cozy Up Indoors

When it’s time to warm up, Rhinelander’s local businesses make it easy. Grab a cup of coffee or a homemade treat at The Briar House or Northern Grounds Coffehouse. Or, enjoy a cup of soup and a delicious lunch at CT’s Deli, Crimson Cafe or Golden Harvest Market.

Explore Downtown Rhinelander

Visit downtown Rhinelander’s shops for art, gifts, and unique finds—perfect for early holiday shopping. Browse boutiques like Lattitudes and Tricia’s Treasures, or check out Tom’s Drawing Board or Child’s Frame Co. for one-of-a-kind creations and locally handcrafted goods—and discover plenty more as you stroll through downtown.

Discover arts and history! Also in the downtown area, you can view the latest art exhibits at ArtStart or step back in time at the Rhinelander Historical Society Museum (open by appointment in the fall and winter). The Oneida County Courthouse is also a popular historical stop. Inside, you can take the self-guided walking tour and learn about the history and architecture of the beautiful building.

Plan a Weekend Stay

Several area resorts and cabins stay open year-round, offering quiet getaways surrounded by nature. Enjoy lakeside views, a roaring fireplace, and a peaceful escape from the everyday.

Whether you’re hiking, shopping, or simply savoring a warm drink while watching the first snowflakes fall, Rhinelander offers plenty of late-fall charm to discover before winter settles in.

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