REV THINGS UP ON THESE WISCONSIN SNOWMOBILE TRAILS

12-15-2010

 

 

Abundant snowfall, more than 25,000 miles of trails and Wisconsin’s
trademark hospitality make the state a snowmobiling Mecca
MADISON, Wis. (Dec. 15, 2010) — When Carl Eliason built the first sled in a small garage in 1924 and called it a “motor toboggan,” snowmobiling was born in the Badger State. Today, 25,000 miles of pristine snowmobile trails weave through forests, lakes, fields and villages. In fact, Wisconsin has enough miles of snowmobile trails to sled from Los Angeles to New York and back three times. It’s no wonder that Wisconsin’s snowmobile trail system is the envy of other states and Canadian provinces.

Trails are maintained by the 589 snowmobile clubs that make up the Association of Wisconsin Snowmobile Clubs. These 27,000 member-volunteers do everything from securing trail easements to placing signage to brushing and grooming the trails, with the last item often being done evenings and overnight to ensure snowmobilers wake up to stellar riding conditions the next morning.

The Wisconsin Department of Tourism called on some local experts to give us their picks for the ideal northern Wisconsin snowmobiling experience. The result is an itinerary of sorts that covers not only the trails but the best places to stop for comfort food and a great cup of coffee. You’ll even find the perfect spot to rest your head and warm up near a fireplace following a satisfying day on the trail.

This list just scratches the surface of snowmobiling in the state. Many more trail experiences can be found on  TravelWisconsin.com where you can also find the Department of Tourism’s Snow Conditions Report. This up-to-the-minute report is updated by locals who are familiar with the trails as snow conditions change. Subscribe to have it delivered right to your e-mail inbox on Thursday just in time to make your weekend plans.

Eagle River

	Snowmobiling and winter cabin in Eagle River Photo courtesy of Brian Malloy

The History: Eagle River, officially registered as “The Snowmobile Capital of the World” in 1964, has five snowmobile clubs that groom 600 miles of trails daily. These trails weave through Vilas and Oneida counties, the Nicolet National Forest and around 2,400 lakes.

A Must-See: The city’s annual ice castle creation, an icy architectural wonder that has changed in design every year since it was first built in 1927. It’s built by a team of volunteers headed by area firefighters who put in more than 700 man hours to cut nearly 3,000 ice blocks from a local lake and haul them into place. Trail No. 13 passes right by it.

Snowmobile Guides and Rentals: Just like fishing guides, these three businesses will take care of everything for your snowmobile expedition. There’s Decker Sno-Venture Tours, Have Sled Will Travel, and Eagle River Touring Company. You can rent snowmobiles from The Toy Shop, Boat S’Port Marine, Track Side, and Watercraft Sales.

Where to Eat: A stop at Pitlik’s Sand Beach Resort is almost required. The extensive menu, with traditional favorites like meatloaf and Friday Night “shore lunch,” also includes a selection of bison entrées. There’s also Lumpy’s Bar and Grill where a full panini menu includes a prime rib version.

Where to Sleep: The Chanticleer Inn, where the history dates back to 1922, provides villas, each with a view of Dollar Lake, fireplaces and full kitchens. The lodge homes at Wild Eagle Lodge also feature stone fireplaces. Or you can reserve a cabin at Eagle Waters Resort, where you can choose from units with wood-burning fireplaces or wood-burning stoves.

800-359-6315;  www.eagleriver.org

Three Lakes

The History: Lit by antique-inspired lampposts and lined with little gift shops and restaurants, the downtown area has an old-fashioned charm to it.

A Must-See: The Northern Lights Snowmobile Club holds overnight rides, on-trail weenie roasts, bonfires and weekly club rides. There’s also the Three Lakes Vintage Enduro Snowmobile Race on Spirit Lake, the Three Lakes Winery where the first cranberry wine was made, and the Northwoods Petroleum Museum where admission is free.

Snowmobile Rentals: Snowmobiles and helmets may be rented at Watercraft Sales in Three Lakes, Three Lakes Power Sports, and Three Lakes Do-It-Best Hardware & Rentals. 

Where to Eat: Jumpstart the day with a double espresso and some baked oatmeal at Déjà Brew. At Patty’s Place, there’s breakfast pizza. And ask about the “Mapler,” “Baconizer” and “Hockey Puck” breakfast entrées at Jake’s Bar & Grill. Also, be sure to try the “Three Lakes Poacher” at Sunset Grill.

Where to Sleep: Stay at the Northernaire, a legendary place of years gone by, reborn with whirlpool tubs, fireplaces, flat-screen TVs and complete kitchens with stainless steel appliances. There’s even a full-service day spa to soothe weary muscles after a long ride. Or, sled right in when you stay at Little Pine Motel & Resort or Oneida Village Inn.

800-972-6103;  www.threelakes.com

Minocqua

	Snowmobiling in Minocqua Photo courtesy of TravelWisconsin.com

The History: One of the area’s favorite trails is the Bearskin State Trail that stretches 18 miles through the forests of Oneida County. Traffic is two-way with several rest spots along the trail. This area also has more than 1,600 miles of trails that traverse 1,300 glacial lakes and 233,000 acres of public forestland.

A Must-See: Cruiserfest, held on Lake Minocqua, is sponsored by the Cross Country Cruisers snowmobile club. Activities include a snowmobile parade followed by fireworks, a radar run, snowmobile demos, silent auction, food and music.

Snowmobile Rentals: Contrary to its name, Wave Rental and Marine also rents snowmobiles and apparel. Minocqua Sport Rental has been renting sleds and gear for 25 years. There’s also R & R Motorsports in Hazelhurst.

Where to Eat: The Black Bear Bar & Grill is known for its charbroiled burgers and now has breakfast too. The Thirsty Whale is a 100-year-old landmark on Lake Minocqua — you’ll want to sample their Wisconsin deep-fried cheese curds followed by a fire-roasted Delmonico steak.

Where to Sleep: You can’t beat Black’s Cliff Resort in nearby Hazelhurst, featuring cabins with fireplaces and the resort’s sauna, for warming up and slowing down. It’s been a family tradition for nearly 100 years. The Beacons is nestled on 13 acres with easy trail access and their
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