Oct/Nov Up North Action Magazine

UpNorthAction.com | Oct/Nov 2021

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Wisconsinn Winery Wisconsi Co-op

Earn your own Wisconsin Winery Co-op glass by completing the Wisconsin Winery Co-Op Trail Book. Learn how to earn yours at one of our participating wineries.

info@wisconsinwineryco-op.com

WisconsinWineryCo-op.com Winery Co-op Bucks can be used at any of our co-op wineries!

They make the perfect gift!

To purchase your Winery Co-op Bucks go to

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Oct/Nov 2021 | UpNorthAction.com

UpNorthAction.com | Oct/Nov 2021

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Editor’s Column Stop By for a Spell in the Northwoods

By Dean S. Acheson

When the air is crisp in the morning, but the sun shines brightly, then you know it’s time to head to the Northwoods for a few days of relaxation and adventure on the trails.

The crowds have thinned out and soon the leaves will too. But for the first two or three weeks of October the leaves are in full “bloom,” displaying eye-popping fall colors. Even after the leaves have departed, the swamps and lowlands that harbor tamarack are ablaze in stunning curtains of yellow.

This is the time to enjoy a pint before a comforting fireplace, to walk the quiet woods and forests, and to take a deep breath as you contemplate one’s place in the universe. (Hint: It belongs in the Northwoods.)

Dedicated fishermen are plying the lakes trying to lure in a 30-pound muskie, but in actuality are happy to have “follows” or to hold a 20-pounder before releasing it back in the waters. Walleyes are fair game for the table. They’re in the shallows now, searching for their own meal.

Across the landscape are any number of fall festivals and events, including walleye and muskie tournaments, running competitions, dryland sled dog races and craft shows.

Make your reservations now because autumn doesn’t last forever. But don’t fret, come November, you’ll be enjoying Christmas bazaars and holiday lighting displays and maybe a bit of fall hunting.

When winter finally pokes its nose under the covers, like Old Shep, the snowmobilers, skiers and ice fishermen will have their turn at outdoor fun in the land they call “Up North.”

Inside this issue Wisconsin Winery Co-op.........................................................................................................Inside Front Cover Rollie & Helen’s Musky Shop.........................................................................................................................Page 3 Editor’s Column.................................................................................................................................................Page 4 Iron County Michigan Lodging Council & Iron County Economic Chamber Alliance.... Back Cover

GET PUBLISHED Want to see your stories and photos in Up North Action magazine? Show us what you love about northern Wisconsin and U.P. Michigan for an opportunity to be published!

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Cover Photo Credit: James Marvin Phelps Published By: 5 Star Marketing & Distribution 409 Southpark Drive • P.O. Box 10 • Tomahawk, WI 54487 715-453-4511 • E-mail: info@5starupnorth.com Owner/CEO Al Hanley alh@5starupnorth.com Editor Dean Acheson

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Accounting Jackie Blodgett Sales Associate Al Hanley Teresa Mead

Oct/Nov 2021 | UpNorthAction.com

Production Manager Sam Bartz info@5starupnorth.com Project Manager & Senior Graphic Designer Danelle Pretasky

Drivers Gary Harlander Brian Wiedeman

Map & Index

CENTRALREGION REGION- -page page86 CENTRAL

NORTHWEST REGION - page 27

Covering the following county: Portage

Covering the following counties: Ashland • Bayfield • Douglas • Burnett Washburn • Sawyer • Rusk • Barron Polk • St. Croix • Dunn • Chippewa

NORTHEAST REGION - page 11

Covering the following counties: Florence • Forest • Marinette Oconto • Menominee • Shawano NORTHCENTRAL REGION - page 14

U.P. MICHIGAN REGION - page 34

Covering the following counties: Gogebic • Ontonagon • Houghton • Iron Dickinson • Menominee

Covering the following counties: Iron • Vilas • Price • Oneida • Lincoln Langlade • Taylor • Marathon

UpNorthAction.com | Oct/Nov 2021

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Ahhh…Autumn’s Adventures Await

I

t’s time to celebrate all things autumn in the Northwoods.

Northern Wisconsin and the Upper Peninsula of Michigan are renowned for their thousands of clear lakes and Paul Bunyan-size forests. Nestled within those forests, and connected to small towns and cities, are numerous recreational trails that beckon all stripes of outdoor enthusiasts.

Those lucky enough to hit those trails during the first two weeks of October will be rewarded with gorgous fall colors, unforgettable hiking and biking trails, and ATV/UTV trail systems unrivaled in the Midwest. Many of the trails skirt lakes or take you down to waterfalls, where you can pause to drink in their beauty.

Even in late October and early November, the trails draw savy users who dress appropriately for the temps. Come deer hunting season, however, you may want to refrain from hitting trails that go through the woods.

The exception will be those hunters who use their machines to get to their hunting stands and to transport game.

Looking across the vast landscape we see that the Mercer area and the rest of Iron County boast a very large network of ATV/UTV trails. You can also ride from Rice Lake to Superior on a rail-to-trails corridor. Or, from Park Falls west to connect with trails in Polk County.

A number of cities and townships, including the Town of Plover, have opened their roads so that ATV/UTV riders can visit restaurants, pubs and retail shops, as well as motels.

For our bicycle warriors, it seems that every month brings word of a new paved trail for uber explorers. An example of this is the Phelps to Phillips hike/bike trail recently completed in Vilas County. It adds about 10 miles to their biking adventures. Speaking of which, the expansive Heart of North hike/bike trail system in that county may be the next thing to heaven for silent sports enthusiasts.

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Oct/Nov 2021 | UpNorthAction.com

Gear grinders looking for a challenge are invited to visit Mt Ashwabay in Bayfield County where the CAMBA folks have a network of trails that go through the county and state forests there. CAMBA also have mountain bike trails in the Cable area that are outstanding.

Indeed, there are trails waiting to be explored in every county of central and northern Wisconsin, and further up into the U.P. of Michigan.

Just want to get out for a walk or hike? Get a bird’s eye view with a trip to the top of our landscapes. Up in Ontonagon County, head to the Summit Peak Scenic Area where you’ll find an observation tower that overlooks the highest point in the park, or visit the Lake of the Clouds Scenic Area, one of the most photographed spots in the Porkies.

Copper Peak, a former ski jumping site just north of Ironwood, invites visitors to an overlook that offers views of 2,500 square miles and three states (and even Canada on a clear day).

While in the UP, you should meander over to Crystal Falls where the view from the tower of the county courthouse is simply breathtaking when the fall colors are at their peak. Wolf Mountain between Wakefield and Marenisco requires a bit of steep climbing, but the view over the valley, especially when the sun breaks through the clouds, is well worth it.

Back in Bayfield County, the view from Mt. Ashwabay over the valley and Lake Superior is another favorite of ours. South of Ashland is St. Peter’s Dome, which also requires some steep climbing again to reach the peak. From there it offers a breathtaking view of Chequamegon Bay of Lake Superior and the Apostle Islands. Going south to Price County you’ll find tallest spot in the Badger State when you visit Timm’s Hill County Park near Ogema Squirrel Hill in Winter Park just west of Minocqua is another prime choice. It requires a climb, but for three days in October they open the gate for motorists.

UpNorthAction.com | Oct/Nov 2021

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ComeOverToPlover.com

Central Region

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n u F l l a

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o f r g y n o i t u i ! a w is I

Plover Wisconsin CONTACT: comeovertoplover@gmail.com VISIT: www.comeovertoplover.com

Fall fun awaits you in Plover! Come view our beautiful scenery by ATV/UTV or hike some area trails. Fall is a prime time to come

to come hunt this fall. For more information on the area and area businesses, visit comeovertoplover.com

Central Region

Musky Fish the Wisconsin River and our state land is waiting for you

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ComeOverToPlover.com

Visit Naturally at Buena Vista Wildlife Area

Central Region

TOWN OF PLOVER AREA – Bird watchers, hunters, hikers and cross-country skiers have ample space and opportunities to pursue their respective sport in the Buena Vista Wildlife Area.

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The 12,700-acre property is located in southwestern Portage County. It consists of scattered parcels 10 miles east of Wisconsin Rapids and 4 miles south of Plover. From the intersection of State Hwy. 54 and County Hwy. F (west of Plover), go south on County Hwy. F 6 miles, then east on Griffith Avenue 0.75 mile to the southern boundary of the natural area.

An informational kiosk is located off County Hwy. W, just east of County Hwy. F. There is a checklist of birds available from the Golden Sands Resource Conservation and Development Council.

Buena Vista Grasslands is home to the largest concentration of greater prairie chickens in Wisconsin and represents one of the most extensive grasslands east of the Mississippi River. The property harbors a healthy population of other important grassland bird species.

Oct/Nov 2021 | UpNorthAction.com

Several state natural areas are found within the borders of the property including the Buena Vista Quarry Prairie and the Buena Vista Prairie Chicken Meadow. The latter is a part of Buena Vista Marsh, a large outwash plain and former glacial lake bed. Part of the site is grassland dominated by bluegrass and is managed for prairie chickens.

In the spring, the area draws visitors who come to see the mating rituals of the prairie chicken. But the chickens reside there year-round and winter provides ample opportunities to see them against the snow-covered ground or perched in trees. If you go, bring a spotting scope, binoculars and a long lens for your camera.

Murray Berner, writing on eBird.org, also notes: “From September through March, it isn’t necessary to concentrate on public land.

The stubble fields, grazed pastures, and woodlots offer interesting birding. Flocks of hundreds of staging Sandhill Cranes are present through November. These are usually south of County Hwy. W. In corn stubble or harvested potato fields, flocks of Horned Larks, longspurs and American Golden-Plovers appear in October. North of W seems best.”

If you are lucky, you may spot one or more snowy owls!

Northeast Region Calendar

Oct. 2 Shawano – Downtown Shawano Octoberfest Oct. 3 Shawano – Vintage & Collector Car Show Oct. 8 Shawano – Witches’ Night Out Oct. 9 Riverview – Oktoberfest Oct. 9 Shawano Lake – Mooseyard

Oktoberfest & Scavenger Hunt Oct. 16-17 Mountain – Dryland Sled Dog Races Oct. 23 Florence – Leff’s Game Feed Dec. 4 Florence – Christmas in Florence

Florence County ATV Trails Northeast Region

Florence County is home to over 160 miles of ATV trails and routes with hundreds more connecting neighboring counties and Michigan.

The northern part of the Nicolet State Trail runs through the western portion of the county. This particular trail also runs through Forest and Oconto counties.

The Florence County ATV trail system winds through the open Spread Eagle Barrens State Natural Area and county, industrial and national forests. Riders will encounter trails leading to 3 waterfalls (Breakwater, LaSalle & Washburn), several scenic overlooks, county parks and 3 ATV/UTV friendly campgrounds: Lake Emily, West Bass Lake and Morgan Lake campgrounds.

Florence County also has a 17-acre ATV park which is located on the south side of Fisher Lake in the Town of Florence.

UpNorthAction.com | Oct/Nov 2021

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Dual Sport Motorcycles Finding Solid Traction in the Northwoods Dual sport motorcycling has grown by leaps and bounds in recent years, and in response trails are being develop to serve that segment of outdoor enthusiasts.

For those in the dark about that type of two-wheel machine, a dual sport (dual purpose) motorcycle somewhat bridges the street and off-road categories. Generally, a dual sport motorcycle is one that is street legal and can be ridden off road as well.

Riders of dual sport motorcycles will find miles of related adventure trails in Oconto County.

Next season, be aware that some forest roads that are part of the routes below don’t open until early May. For more information, visit ocontocounty.org.

Northern Wisconsin Adventure Trail The Northern Wisconsin Adventure Trail (NWAT) is a 950mile dual sport motorcycle route that loops through the forests of northern Wisconsin.

The route can be followed by using a GPS file that is available for download at the web link listed above for this ride.

There is also a link at the download site that leads to more details about the ride, including distances between gas stops and interesting places to visit along the route. There are many photographs along with the details so that riders can get an idea of what the surfaces and terrain are like along the route.

Northeast Region

It will take 4-6 days to complete this ride. Camping, lodging, and restaurants are available along the route. There are many two-track and trail segments on this path. Riders should be sufficiently skilled to navigate off-highway paths. For more information, call 262-569-1474.

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Lakewood Area Adventure Motorcycle Path This 100-mile path is intended for adventure or dual sport motorcycles. It traverses scenic natural and historic sites in the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest in the area around Lakewood. You can visit scenic lakes and streams, logging camps, old growth pines, and climb a forest lookout tower.

With stops to take in the scenery, this ride will take most of the day.

Oct/Nov 2021 | UpNorthAction.com

Begin your ride anywhere on the loop, but a good place to start is at the National Forest Ranger Station about a halfmile south of Lakewood on Hwy. 32. While there, pick up brochures about the forest that will complement your riding experience.

Large Arts and Crafts Show Planned for Florence FLORENCE – On Saturday, Dec. 4 from 10 a.m. until 3 p.m. the Florence Chamber of Commerce is hosting its 11th annual Christmas in Florence event at the Florence High School. Admission is is free and includes a chance to win many door prizes.

There will be more than 90 vendors in the gym offering a large variety of unique hand-made arts and craft items, as well as other items for sale to help you with your Christmas shopping.

There will be many activities for kids, including visiting Santa and listening to stories from Mrs. Claus. They are due to arrive from the North Pole at 10:30 a.m. Children will enjoy making free Christmas craft projects with the TORPEDOS students. Homemade chili, Christmas cookies and other food items will be for sale in the cafeteria.

Performances in the auditorium will include FHS Drama Club, FHS Jazz Band, and the dance performers. The school’s Show Choir will be caroling around the school.

Northeast Region UpNorthAction.com | Oct/Nov 2021

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Northcentral Region

NORTHCENTRAL REGION

Northcentral Region

Calendar

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Oct 1-3 Phelps – Midwest Musky Classic Tournament Oct. 2 Manitowish Waters – Cran A Rama Festival Oct. 2 Wausau – Ironbull Ultra Trail 50K/15K Oct. 2 Merrill – Lincoln Lager Barleyfest Oct. 2 Boulder Junction – Library Wine &

Beer Tasting Oct. 2 White Lake – Biketabler Fest Oct. 2-3 Boulder Junction – Walleye Classic Oct. 2-3 St. Germain – Greater WI Musky Tournament Oct. 2-3 Eagle River – Cranberry Fest Oct. 7-10 Mercer – Pumpkin Run ATV/UTV Rally Oct. 8-10 Various – Northwoods Art Tour Oct. 9 Boulder Junction – Harvest Fest Oct. 9 Minocqua -- Harvest Fest at Winter Park Oct. 9 Minocqua – Zoo Boo at Wildwood

Wildlife Park Oct. 9 Three Lakes – Three Eagle Half

Marathon & 5K Oct. 9 Three Lakes – Three Lakes Pumpkin Fest Oct. 9 Wausau – Harvest Fest Oct. 15-16 Mercer – Mercer Muskie Madness Tournament Oct. 15-16 Sayner – Sayner Stampede Oct. 16 St. Germain – Olives in October Oct. 16 Wausau – Ironbull Red Granite

Grinder Bike Race Oct. 16 Antigo – Jr. Woman’s Craft Fair Oct. 23 Hurley – Spooky Halloween Trail Walk Oct. 24 Minocqua – Buck Rut Run Oct. 30 Boulder Junction – Ghouls Night

Out/Halloween Walk Oct. 30 Land O’ Lakes – Zombie Crawl Event Oct. 30-31 Kennan – Dryland Sled Dog Races Oct. 31 Presque Isle – Halloween Shanty

Town, Trunk or Treat Nov. 6-7 Pearson – Dryland Sled Dog Race Nov. 13 St. Germain – Christmas Bazaar Nov. 13 Merrill – Fall Craft Shows Nov. 13 Eagle River – Old Fashioneds Up North Nov. 20 Eagle River – Wi-does Wine Walk Nov. 25 Park Falls – Turkey Trot Nov. 25 Minocqua – Minocqua Turkey Trot Nov. 26 Boulder Junction – Christmas Walk Nov. 26 Three Lakes – Festival of Lights Nov. 27 Minocqua – Christmas in Minocqua Nov. 27 Boulder Junction – Christmas Walk

Kid’s Day Nov. 27 St. Germain – Holiday Marketplace Nov. 27 St. Germain – Lighting Up St. Germain Dec. 1 Antigo – Christmas Parade, Chili Cook-Off Dec. 4 Merrill – Christmas Parade Dec. 4 Rhinelander – Parade of Lights Dec. 4-5 Merrill – Tannenbaum Tour

Oct/Nov 2021 | UpNorthAction.com

Take a Run to the Pumpkin Run ATV/UTV Rally MERCER – Before you knew it, fall is here. And so is the 19th annual Pumpkin Run ATV/UTV Rally, which will be Oct. 7-10 in Mercer.

The rally kicks off at 3 p.m. Thursday with a four-day poker run. Register in advance at MercerPumpkinRunRally.com. The $20 fee includes a poker run sheet, commemorative bandana, and the opportunity to win cash prizes, as well as door prizes. The poker run includes stops at businesses throughout Iron County with lots of great riding along the way. The poker run hours are Thursday 3-8 p.m., Friday noon to 8 p.m., Saturday noon to 8 p.m. and Sunday noon to 6 p.m.

The ATV, UTV and lawn tractor pull will be 2-6 p.m. Friday, Oct. 8 at Liberty Way Tap House. There are multiple classes for ATVs and UTVs. There is one class for lawn tractors. Participants will test their skills and machines against the Z Force ATV Sled from the Tuscobia Trails ATV Association. The Mercer Dusty Loons ATV Club and the Mercer Area Chamber of Commerce are sponsoring this event.

The Great Pumpkin ATV/UTV Parade through downtown Mercer will start at 5

p.m. Saturday, Oct. 9. No decorations or costumes are necessary, but prizes will be awarded for best decorated Halloween-themed vehicles.

Northcentral Region

The wrap-up party at Great Nortern Hotel will be Saturday immediately after the parade. Enjoy music, food, drinks, door prizes, and raffles. For more information visit the website mercerpumpkinrunrally.com or call the chamber at 715-476-2389.

UpNorthAction.com | Oct/Nov 2021

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The Bite is On for Fall Fishermen MERCER – Savvy muskie anglers know October can produce some real trophies as falling lake temperatures trigger increased feeding in this apex predator. Pair it with a tournament on excellent water bodies, and it’s game on! Of course, we’re talking about the Mercer Muskie Madness Tournament, which will be Oct. 15 & 16.

The two- person team muskie fishing challenge with cash prizes will be headquartered out of Gateway Lodge in Mercer. A dozen lake bodies, included the famed Turtle-Flambeau Flowage, are open for tournament anglers.

Fishing will take place from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. both days. Tournament rules allow for two lines in the water per angler: one live bait, one artificial. No trolling is allowed however. After the close of fishing Saturday, there will be the awards ceremony and raffle drawing at 6 p.m. Cash prizes will be awarded based on the number of participants. The banquet gets underway at 8 p.m.

Northcentral Region

To register and for more information, go to MercerMuskieMadness.com or call Gatway Lodge at 715-476-7878 or e-mail info@thegatewaylodge.com.

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Oct/Nov 2021 | UpNorthAction.com

Join the Fun at Boulder Junction’s Harvest Fest BOULDER JUNCTION -- This October the Boulder Junction Chamber and downtown businesses are hosting the 26th annual Harvest Fest.

Harvest Fest will take place on Saturday, Oct. 9 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. “Shop the Haystack” tent will be at Peeple’s Park. Shoppers who accumulate $35 or more in receipts from purchases made on Oct. 9 at Boulder Junction businesses can take them to the haystack for a gift certificate or donated item from Boulder Junction businesses.

Northcentral Region

Granny Autumn will lead children to activities throughout the day, including from 10-10:45 a.m. for story hour at the Boulder Junction Public Library’s reading garden. From 11-11:45 a.m., you can visit the Boulder Junction Volunteer Fire Department’s open house. Oliva England will be on the Music on Main Street stage from noon to 1 p.m. Beginning at 1 p.m. children can decorate a pumpkin at Peeple’s Park.

Along Main Street, vendors will be selling fall treats, including baked goods, hand-dipped caramel apples, chili and hot dogs.

Children are encouraged to come in costume and participate in the Harvest Hunt, a self-guided scavenger hunt, and in-store games.

Harvest Hunt and in-store game information can be picked up at the Shop the Haystack tent. Anyone completing the scavenger hunt that day from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., can return their completed Harvest Hunt card for a participation prize.

Local businesses will be participating in a scarecrow decorating contest. Images of the scarecrows will be posted on boulderjct.org on Oct. 8 & 9. The public can go there to vote for their favorite.

UpNorthAction.com | Oct/Nov 2021

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Oct/Nov 2021 | UpNorthAction.com

ATV/UTV Riders Can Explore the Trails from Phelps PHELPS – Many visitors come to the Phelps area to experience the vast wilderness trails via ATV/UTV during the fall months.

In fact, ATV/UTV riders can now access more than 130 miles of preferred routes and trails from Phelps. From May to October, town roads and county roads are open to registered Off-Road Vehicles, giving you just one more way to get out and enjoy the great outdoors in Vilas County.

The Vilas County ATV/UTV route system connects the communities of Phelps, St. Germain, Arbor Vitae, Lincoln, Eagle River, Conover, and Land O’Lakes. From there, they connect with trails in Forest and Oneida counties, where more off-road fun awaits you. These routes also connect to the trails of the Upper Peninsula of Michigan.

The Landover ATV/UTV Club has been in the forefront developing and requesting routes to be opened, marking the trails and preferred routes and maintaining them.

Riders can cover a variety of terrain, from paved roads to dirt routes on former fire roads. Navigating the trails is easy with the Map It Vilas County trails app. It covers on-road and off-road routes and it’s good for long-haul rides, as well as shorter outings. The app uses GPS and works without a cell signal so it will keep you on track.

Along with the privilege of enjoying the sport comes the responsibility of making sure you are operating these vehicles safely and responsibly, including respecting private property. ATV and UTV operators born on or after Jan. 1, 1988 who are at least 12 years old for ATV (and at least 16 years old for UTV) must complete an ATV and UTV safety certification course in order to operate on public ATV/UTV trails and areas in Wisconsin. For more information about ATV/UTV riding in Wisconsin, visit the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources website.

Northcentral Region UpNorthAction.com | Oct/Nov 2021

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Northwoods Communities Bring Christmas Cheer

p.m. at the chamber office and finish in time for you to enjoy the “Lighting Up St. Germain” Holiday Christmas tree lighting. Race registration will be online. Proceeds from the Jingle Bell Run will be shared with St. Germain’s Mission Possible Running Club.

The parade route will start its “jingle jangle” at 5 p.m. from Paul’s Rent-All to the St. Germain Fire Department. At the parade’s end, the fire department, Santa will lead everybody in a few carols and the Christmas tree lighting. Santa and members of the fire department invite all to the fire station for a tour and some holiday treats.

ST. GERMAIN – The second annual Holiday Marketplace, a kick-off to Christmas season in St Germain will be Saturday, Nov. 27. From 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the St. Germain Community Center, you can check off items on your Christmas shopping list while supporting local craft vendors. There will be kids activities, food and more, according to the St. Germain Chamber of Commerce.

Northcentral Region

Needing to move a little after a fun and filling Thanksgiving meal with family and friends? The Jingle Bell Fun Run in St. Germain, also on Saturday, Nov. 27, is just for you. Whatever the weather – warm, cold, snow or no snow, join in the “jingling” of the holiday season with this fun-filled run or walk. The event will start at 4

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Oct/Nov 2021 | UpNorthAction.com

BOULDER JUNCTION -- Over in Boulder Junction on Friday, Nov. 26 during the town’s Christmas Walk, you can welcome in the holiday season with the lighting of the town, a visit from Santa and Mrs. Claus, carolers, sleigh rides and treats for shoppers at the stores from 5-8 p.m. There’s also an arts and crafts fair from 9 a.m.to 3 p.m. at the Community Center. Friends of the Boulder Junction Public Library will have their cookie walk beginning at 5 p.m. in the lobby of the Acorn Lodge. Choose from a huge assortment of fancy cookies, all-time favorites and special holiday candies. The sale will run until all cookies and treats are sold.

THREE LAKES – The Three Lakes Chamber invites you to celebrate the Christmas season by attending the Festival of Lights from 6-9 p.m. Friday, Nov. 26. Santa will be attending along with his reindeers to light the big tree outside the chamber of commerce office. Children can hand Santa their Christmas list.

Then on Saturday, Nov 27 the downtown will be sponsoring “Jingle Mingle,” their seventh annual small business promotion.

There will be holiday deals, free snacks, activities and prizes.

There will be horse-drawn sleigh rides through town and the Vil-

lage Skate rink will be open. Kids visit with Santa at Black Forest Pub & Grille from noon to 5 p.m.

MINOCQUA -- Santa and Mrs. Claus are making their annual stop on Saturday, Nov. 30 in downtown Minocqua for Christmas in Minocqua. They will arrive on a horse-drawn wagon ay 1 p.m. at Gaslight Square. Until 4 p.m., the pair will visit with children at the Gaslight Square Shoppes. Bring your camera to take pictures of your child with Santa. Santa and Mrs. Claus will lead the way at 4 p.m. to Veterans Park for carols and the official lighting of the Christmas display. There will be hot chocolate and cookies at the park.

Enjoy the decorations downtown, take a horse-drawn wagon ride (anytime from noon to 4 p.m.) and start your holiday shopping at the numerous unique stores on the Island.

Northcentral Region UpNorthAction.com | Oct/Nov 2021

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Northcentral Region

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Oct/Nov 2021 | UpNorthAction.com

Northcentral Region UpNorthAction.com | Oct/Nov 2021

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Minocqua Winter Park Says: ‘Let’s Fall Y’All’ MINOCQUA – Minocqua Winter Park is the place you’ll want to take your family or companion to this fall. They bump the fun up a notch on Saturday, Oct. 2 when they will host the Dirty Squirrel Gravel Grind.

The mountain bike race uses the park’s own trail system along with several local gravel roads thrown in for good measure.

They will follow it up with Fall Fest set for Saturday, Oct. 9. A bushel-basket of fun activities await you, including bluegrass music by Hand Picked, scarecrow building, a visit to the pumpkin patch, sack races, pie eating contest and craft vendors. More activities were to be announced after our press deadline.

Northcentral Region

Then come back on Saturday, Oct. 23 for the haunted hay rides. It’s over the creek and through the woods, but not to grandma’s crib. The ride will take you along the haunted trail. Starts at 5 p.m. and goes ’till 10 p.m.

Age appropriate for those 14 years and up.

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After an absence of five years, the timed Buck Rut Run returns to Winter Park on Sunday, Oct. 24. This will be the 26th year the foot race been held on Winter Park’s scenic trails.

Saturday, Oct. 30 is drive-in movie night at Winter Park with the showing of “Hocus Pocus.” The movie is shown on an extra-large inflatable screen. Parking opens at 4:30 p.m. with the movie showing at 6 p.m.

From atop of Squirrel Hill at Winter Park you can see for miles – and when fall colors roll around, it’s an extra spectacular viewing experience. You can walk up to the Squirrel Summit to the overlook. Or on three special days – Oct. 3, 9 & 10 – the gate at the bottom of the hill is opened and you can drive up there!

For updates and directions, visit minocquawinterpark.org. It’s also where you want to check for winter events as they are posted.

Oct/Nov 2021 | UpNorthAction.com

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Northcentral Region

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Northwest Region Calendar

Canoe Routes Trace Historic Paths of Fur Traders

The Sawmill Lake Primitive Canoe Route: This canoe route begins at the Sawmill Lake campground, 16 miles east of Spooner on Hwy. 70, 2 miles south on Hwy. B, 5 miles east on Birchwood Fire Lane. The portage trail accesses nine separate lakes, with most portages less than 100 yards. The campground has 20 primitive campsites with tables and fire rings, but no electricity. The lakes along this route are relatively deep, with maximum depths of up to 40 feet. Bass and panfish are abundant, however many of these lakes are prone to winterkill. Of particular interest is the presence of Green Sunfish.

Loyhead lake Primitive Canoe Route: This canoe route is located 7 miles north of Birchwood. The route begins at Loyhead Lake at the boat landing on the Birchwood fire lane. The portage trail accesses 7 separate lakes with most portages less than 200 yards. Marked canoe routes lead you along the Yellow River in the southern

part of Washburn County and the Totogatic River in the north, as well as the Namekagon National Scenic Riverway.

The Namekagon District Visitor Center provides maps, field guides and information about camping and river conditions.

Located on Hwy. 63 just north of Trego, the center features exhibits on local history, as well as an aquarium, slide show and children’s touch table. Call 715-635-8346 for hours.

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Northwest Region

Canoeing two special waterways in Washburn County will set you back in time – about 200 years ago when Native Americans and the fur traders used the routes to access more than 30 lakes as they traded goods and furs. Known today as the Loyhead and Sawmill Lake Primitive Canoe Routes, the historic routes offer splendid canoeing and camping opportunities.

Oct. 1-3 Cable – Tour de Chequamegon Oct. 1-3 Hayward – Muskies Inc. Fall Tournament Oct. 1-3 Bayfield – Bayfield Apple Festival Oct. 2 Stone Lake – Cranberry Festival Oct. 2-3 St. Croix Falls – October Festival Oct. 7-9 Hayward – Treeland Musky Fly

Fishing Championship Oct. 9 Ashland – Cruisin’ the Corridor 5K

& 10K Oct. 9 Amery – Changing Colors Bike Ride Oct. 9 Iron River – WhistleStop Marathon Oct. 9 Luck – Gandy Dancer Trail Marathon Oct. 9-10 Webster – Mixed Sampler Quilt

Guild Show Oct. 10 Turtle Lake – Toy Tractor Show Oct. 10 Iron River – Oulu October Fest Oct. 15-17 Osceola – Pumpkin Express Train Ride Oct. 15-17 Hayward – Ladies’ Musky Fishing School Oct. 16 Madeline Island – Fall Festival Oct. 16-17 St. Croix Falls – Oktorber Festival Oct. 16 La Pointe – Madeline Island Family

Fall Fest Oct. 22-24 St. Croix Falls – AutumnFest & Craft Fair Oct. 23 Milltown – Pumpkin Fest Nov. 3-6 Ashland – Big Water Film Festival Nov. 13 Cushing – Venison Feed Dec. 4 Shell Lake – Holiday Saturday Dec. 4 Amery – Amery Holiday Stroll Dec. 4 Birchwood – Christmas Fest Dec. 4 Turtle Lake – Chamber Christmas Dec. 4 Centuria – Cozy Country Christmas Dec. 4 Dresser – Vintage Sled Extravaganza Dec. 4-5 St. Croix Falls – Rivertown Holiday

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Discover Mt. Ashwabay Ski and Recreation Area

Northwest Region

BAYFIELD – Fall colors and an excellent mountain bike system will be your introduction to Mt. Ashwabay, a family-centered recreation complex located just south of Bayfield.

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These trails were masterfully crafted by CAMBA (Chequamegon Area Mountain Bike Association). With views of Lake Superior and the Apostle Islands, this is a very scenic area to enjoy, especially now when fall colors are on display.

Come winter, though, our thoughts will turn to the alpine ski slope with 12 runs, 2 terrain parks, a tubing hill and the amazing cross-country ski trail system found there. Bring your snowshoes and fat bikes as there are trails for these sports also.

The non-profit Ashwabay Outdoor Educational Foundation is in charge of the facility. Operations manager Doug Olson reports that this winter season will see the introduction of five Lenko Sweden snow guns, as well as improved signage for the trail system.

The hill is comfortable for families with a vertical drop of 317 feet. The longest run is 1,500 feet with two beginner runs, four in-

Oct/Nov 2021 | UpNorthAction.com

termediate ones and six advanced. They have one double chairlift and one surface lift. The lifts run Wednesdays from 9:30 a.m.-7 pm, Fridays from 4-7 p.m., Saturdays from 9:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m., and Sundays from 10:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m.

There’s an impressive 40 plus kilometers of XC trails that will take you through adjoining county and state forests with towering maples, oaks and evergreens. (There is a hidden gem along trail – a 1920s-eara log structure that once housed a sugar bush operation.) There are about 25 kilometers of combined skating and classic trails and another 15 kilometers of classic only. Trails are groomed and tracked as needed. Their ratings range from beginner to expert.

The Nordic trails are open seven days a week. Purchase a season pass, pay for a daily ticket in the chalet, or put the daily trail fee in the tube of the trailhead if the chalet is closed.

The chalet at entrance of the complex offers rentals of classic ski equipment, food and a lounge with bar. There is also a changing room adjacent to the chalet. Instructors also are available for ski lessons. NASTAR racing takes place on Sundays at 1 p.m.

For more information, visit mtashwabay.org or call 715-7793227. Mt. Ashwabay is located at 32525 Ski Hill Rd., Bayfield.

Northwest Region UpNorthAction.com | Aug/Sept 2021

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Catching Muskies on the Fly HAYWARD – Muskies are the apex predator in northern Wisconsin waters and for good reason. Half alligator and half bulldog, they can put up a fight on the end of your line like no other fish. Most anglers go to battle with them armed with a broom-

stick of a rod and bait-casting lures that would be considered keepers if they were certain fish species.

Yet, there are other resourceful anglers who have adopted fly tackle to handle muskies as a legitimate fly-rod target. They’re using gear better suited for big saltwater fish: heavy 10- to 12-weight rods and weighted fly lines. The flies can range from seven inches to over a foot long.

A number of those die-hard, fly-casting muskie hunters will be gathering at Treeland Resorts in Hayward for their sixth annual Treeland Premier Musky Fly Fishing Championships set for Oct. 7-9, Entry fee is $150 per person with the field capped at 100 entries. Team (up to 3 members) and individual trophies will be awarded, along with largest muskie recognition. A trio of dinners is covered by your entry fee. There will be daily door prizes and one grand daily door prize. Thursday’s schedule includes a casting contest. Fishing takes place Friday and Saturday.

Northwest Region

For more information, e-mail or call: reservations@treelandresorts.com or 715-4623874 or visit treelandresorts.com.

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Northwest Region UpNorthAction.com | Aug/Sept 2021

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By Feet or by Pedals, Pick Your Trail LUCK – The annual Gandy Dancer Marathon and Half Marathon will be Saturday, Oct. 9 during the peak of the fall color season. It will be held on the Gandy Dancer State Trail in Luck with the start at West Street and 3rd Avenue. The full marathon will start at 8 a.m. with the half marathon to follow at 9 a.m. Also offered are a four-person marathon relay and a 5km run/walk.

The trail is a flat and fast limestone surface that should allow runners to post a PR. Both the full and half marathons are chipped time, but the full is not a Boston qualifier. Medals will be given to finishers, with a finish line party waiting for all. For more information visit gandymarathon.net.

AMERY -- If you prefer putting the feet to the bike pedals, then you’ll want to go for the Changing Colors bike ride set for the same day. The event will be headquartered at Soo Line Park in Amery starting at 1 p.m. with games for all ages.

There will also be international booths and vendor demonstrations.

Northwest Region

The group bike ride (or hike) begins at 3 p.m. on Stower 7 Lakes Trail. Live music is scheduled from 4-6 p.m. There will be free hot dogs for bikers at 5 p.m. Friends of Stower Lakes is sponsoring this annual event.

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Northwest Region UpNorthAction.com | Oct/Nov 2021

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U.P. Michigan Region Calendar

Nov. 18 Ironwood – Jack Frost Festival Tree Lighting Nov. 26-Dec. 5 Crystal Falls – Christmas Tree Galleria Dec. 4 Iron River – Christmas in Lights Dec. 4 Ironwood – Jack Frost Festival Parade Dec. 11 Crystal Falls – Crystal Christmas

U.P. Michigan Region

You Betcha, Eh? We’re Going to the Jack Frost Festival

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IRONOOD -- In the U.P., “Jack Frost nipping at your nose” is more than just a fireside song image, it symbolizes the beginning of the winter season—and snow! Throughout October and November, the brilliant fall foliage drops to the ground, the chill winds blow, and Jack Frost appears (on your car windshield and other places), heralding the arrival of winter. And winter in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula is a time of fun, celebration, and real “U.P. North Action.”

For over 25 years, the town of Ironwood has had a “Jack Frost Festival” — a group of community events running from Nov. 18 to Jan. 29. Snowmobile races, ski and snowshoe races, winter-themed music and art, and, of course, the famous downtown Ironwood Jack Frost Parade on Saturday, Dec. 4, at 6 p.m. There is nothing like being bundled up and cheering on a full-scale outdoor winter parade! It offers real proof that Jack Frost does indeed nip at your nose.

Oct/Nov 2021 | UpNorthAction.com

The Jack Frost Festival starts with the Old Depot Park Christmas tree lighting event on Thursday, Nov. 18, at 6 p.m. Folks near and far gather in the snow at the base of the Depot big pine tree for opening speeches (and you betcha, eh? they are short!), Christmas and winter music sung by a choir, and then the illuminating of the giant Jack Frost tree. Hot cider and treats follow inside the Historic Ironwood Depot. Often, Jack Frost makes a personal appearance at the event, disguised as wind-blown snow.

A scant 16 days later, on Dec. 4, the Jack Frost Festival of Lights Parade kicks off at 6 p.m. Different from your usual summertime parade, the Jack Frost/Christmas theme showcases brilliantly lighted floats, massive trail groomers, decorated tow trucks, marching H.O.P.E. animal shelter dogs with lighted collars, Fat Tire Winter Bike Club riders, and of course, the dazzling marching performances of the famous Ironwood Precision Snow Shovel Drill Team! A parade visitor tip: make your lodging accommodations early.

A listing of the Jack Frost Festival events can be found on the Ironwood Chamber of Commerce’s Jack Frost page ironwoodchamber.org/jack-frost-festival/. You can also like the Festival Facebook page facebook.com/JackFrostFestival and keep up with the latest news.

U.P. Michigan Region UpNorthAction.com | Oct/Nov 2021

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‘Yooperlites’ Can be Found on the Shores of Lake Superior

U.P. Michigan Region

What are all those people doing on the beach after dark?

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In 2018, Michigan gem and mineral collector, Eric Rintamaki, was searching for rocks on the shore of Lake Superior when he made what he called a “mind blowing” discovery. Resting among the thousands of pebbles covering the beach, he saw a glowing rock, a florescent orb that he later named “Yooperlites.”

Like lava glowing through cracks in the earth, a glowing light seeped out of the lines in the small rock.

Eric couldn’t find any information about glowing rocks online.

He knew many people in the gem and mineral field, but everyone he asked had no clue what these mysterious rocks were.

He went back to the beach night after night, carrying a black light which helped illuminate the glowing rocks and began collecting them by the bagful.

Michigan State University, along with the University of Saskatewan, researched the Yooperlites. They determined that Eric did discover a new type of rock. He said that other people may have spotted these gems, but he was the first person to get Yooperlites

Oct/Nov 2021 | UpNorthAction.com

verified. Michigan State gave the rocks a scientific name: syenite clasts containing fluorescent sodalite.

The name Eric gave them – Yooperlites – comes from the nickname “Yoopers,” which refers to people who live in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula.

Lake Superior is known for its rocky bottom and stoned-lined beaches. Many of these rocks were brought down from Canadian glaciers centuries ago and deposited throughout the lake and shore, which has made the Northern Michigan shoreline a haven for rockhounds. If you plan on searching the water for Yooperlites, make sure that your UV light is waterproof and that you are prepared for the extremely cold water of Lake Superior, even in August the water averages 65F. The best time of year to search for Yooperlites is in the fall and early winter as the storms and waves produced by the lake create a turbulent force that can alter the beach and shoreline daily.

Early spring is also a great time to search for Yooperlites because the flake ice pushes against the shore and causes a good amount of erosion, exposing new rock layers to search.

Since it takes using a UV light to help locate Yooperlites, searching from dusk to dawn will always yield the best results. It’s an added benefit to go hunting for the glowing rocks on a cloudy night while there is no moon or stars. This will increase the odds of seeing the UV light bounce off a Yooperlite because the beam of light will be stronger and your eyes will not need to adjust as much from the interference of the moonlight.

FeLiveLife.org: Find Your Element The Gogebic Iron Range is a pretty incredible piece of real estate waiting to be explored. Born of volcanoes, seas and towering mountains of eons ago, the iron range stretches across Gogebic County in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan and through Iron County in Wisconsin.

Its vast iron ore reserves drew miners and railroads and finally saw the development of communities on both sides of the border between the two states.

recreation centers, an amazing silver lining for a boom-and-bust economic history.

In 2017, FeLiveLife.org refocused itself into an easy-to-use community calendar for the Gogebic Iron Range. The outcome of the collaborations was a well-rounded representation of community events that inform both locals and visitors. The website is maintained regionally, a point of pride itself!

As long as there are woods and water to explore -- and communities to care for them – you can count on FeLiveLife.org to point you in the right direction!

More than a decade ago, community-minded citizens saw a need for one-stop info place to let visitors and locals know about the many recreational opportunities here, as well as the festivals and other events that populate all 12 months of the calendar.

U.P. Michigan Region

The group incorporated the scientific symbol for iron (Fe) in its name and as a symbol for the Gogebic Iron Range. FeLiveLife partners included a dynamic mix of representatives from municipalities, chambers of commerce, small businesses, as well as citizen volunteers.

FeLiveLife.org debuted in 2010. It offered a suite of directories to local parks, trails, businesses and events. The publication and website showcased the Gogebic Iron Range as a great place to live, play and work, inspiring a new sense of community pride postiron mining.

FeLiveLife partners wanted to show everybody that the diverse landscape provides excellent opportunities for outdoor recreation that greatly contributes to the quality of life. In some cases, the old mining scars became outdoor

UpNorthAction.com | Oct/Nov 2021

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Discover the Amazing Gogebic County Shore

By Dennis Fearson

Gogebic County’s Lake Superior shoreline is only 30 miles long, but there is so much family vacation adventure waiting there, along the water, as well as the first mile or two inland.

Start at the west end, where the Montreal River drops over Superior Falls only a couple hundred yards from Lake Superior. Here the Montreal River is the dividing line between Michigan and Wisconsin, and the simplest way to find the falls is to travel north on WI-122 from US-2, until the road crosses the river, enters Michigan, and becomes MI-505.

Once across the bridge turn left into the second gravel drive leading to a small Xcel Energy parking lot where two signs greet you, one pointing to the top of the falls, the other to the bottom. Take the short path to see the top view first. Soon you will be looking down at a wide waterfall dropping into the canyon on the other side.

Headed towards the bottom of the falls we pass just above the generating plant, where the diverted water from the upstream dam has been carried by flumes. The trail to the bottom of the falls is steep but paved. At the bottom access to the pool beneath the falls is a tricky stepping stone river bank. A horn at the generator outlet gives adequate warning if adjustments at the dam would raise the river level.

We all got our feet wet, but it was worth it. The climb back to the top is always daunting, and I’m happy that the single cable railing also serves as a hand pull.

U.P. Michigan Region

Back at the top a second short path doubles back toward the shore.

The path ends at an overlook high on the sandstone cliffs. I can see Madeline Island in the distance.

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Just a couple miles east on MI-505 we turned on Powers Road and into the Powers Road Recreational Area. The area’s multi-use trails are considered to be some of the most scenic in the region. The county describes the area as “open to hikers or bikers to four wheelers or four legged modes of transportation.” There is also a significant snowmobile trail system. This day we chose to simply follow the Bald Mountain Scenic Drive, basically Powers Road. We stopped to take the half mile hike up an old “two-track” over the top of the ridge to the Bald Mountain overlook, a beautiful southern facing vista. Not only was the trail well marked there were educational signs on many of the trees, explaining their species and what they might be used for when felled.

Back on the Scenic Drive we came to a second overlook, this one facing to the north. We could see our next objective in the distance, Little Girl’s Point.

The scenic drive ends as it began, at MI-505. We backtracked to get to the shoreline we had seen from above. The long curving beach at Little Girl’s Point is beautiful to see, but nearly impossible to walk on.

It’s not sandy like other area beaches, but covered with a deep layer of fist-sized rocks. My grandkids spent some time trying to refill the lake by throwing back rocks from the beach, but were disappointed that most were too heavy and round to make good “skippers.”

It had been a busy day, and a meal was called for. But, as along much of the Upper Peninsula’s rugged and unpopulated coast there is no road along the shore, and away from cities finding nearby food or fuel can be difficult. We returned to town to plan our next day’s adventure along the Black River Scenic Byway.

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Black River Scenic Byway Going north on MI-513 from Bessemer the route twists through the town and ski area, but once past Airport Road there is no way to get lost as the highway goes directly to the harbor and back. About eight miles north of Airport Road a fork to the right leads you to the base of the Copper Peak, the highest ski jump in the western hemisphere. At this height it is call Ski Flying. When you first see it, it’s a little scary, but getting to the top is a must do!

We purchased our tickets at the visitor’s chalet before heading to the chair lift loading platform. My granddaughter was a little nervous of the chair lift that was going to carry us up the first 800 feet of this copper bearing volcanic outcropping, but she slid onto the chair anyway, and by the time we approached the first lift tower the smooth and quiet ride had calmed her. Grandma, who dislikes cable rides of any kind, took a deep breath and rode up with our youngest “no fears” grandson.

After stepping off the chair at the top, there’s a short walk to the jump’s single leg, actually an 18-story elevator tower to the viewing platform. Even Grandma felt safe on the concrete and steel platform, but the now calmed granddaughter challenged me to a race to the top, eight stories above.

I was no match for her young legs, but in a few minutes, we were both leaning on the railing, 26 stories above the ground, snapping photos of the unobstructed view: 2,500 square miles, three states, and pretty sure that the hazy bumps on the horizon across the lake were in Canada. You don’t want to start down, but we had to, there was much more to see. Back in the valley we agreed on the “Peter Pan like” feeling we felt as the lift seemed to float us to the ground.

There are five amazing waterfalls along the road between Copper Peak and the harbor. The National Forest has provided signage and parking for each. We stopped at Potawatomi which shares its parking with Gorge Falls. The two are connected by a complicated system of stairs and elevated board walks. We voted and decided that we would visit the others on our way back if there was time and then headed towards the harbor.

In the center of the river edge Black River Harbor there is a long and sturdy suspension bridge built decades ago by the CCC giving access to the miles-long sandy beach.

The final stop on our Gogebic County Shoreline tour was to be the waterfalls of the Presque Isle at the far west end of the Porcupine Mountains State Park. They were only five miles by hiking trail from where we stood, but again the rugged and thinly populated Upper Peninsula lacked direct access by road. The 45-mile drive back to US2, then east, and finally north again on MI-519 took nearly an hour.

Now energy packed with food and a restful ride, we chose to leave the truck at the South Boundary Road Bridge over the Presque Isle River, and walk the last 2/3rds of a mile or so to the lake shore. The West River Trail is mostly boardwalk, and passes by each of the three named waterfalls, Nawadaha, Manido, and Manabezho. Not far from the mouth of the river a suspension bridge leads to a peninsula that becomes an island during periods of high water, giving the area its name. Presque Isle can be translated to mean “almost an island.”

Between the bridge and Lake Superior, over the eons, spinning rocks have ground deep, steeply sided circular holes into the river’s granite bottom. Curious to see, but dangerous traps when high water hides their existence, this area has become known as The Kettles. Excited as I was to see these wonders for the first time, grandkids are only impressed for a few minutes. Anxious to return home the kids urged us back along the river trail to the truck. Like batteries going dead, there was silence from the back seat almost before we were out of the park.

Adventure awaits!

• Miles of ATV/UTV trails • Bountiful fishing • Hiking/biking trails • Camping adventures • Plus SO MUCH MORE!

Ironwood Chamber of Commerce

Lake Gogebic Chamber of Commerce

Wakefield Chamber of Commerce

Travel Ironwood

150 N Lowell St. Ironwood, Michigan 49938 1-906-932-1122 chamber@ironwoodchamber.org ironwoodchamber.org facebook.com/IronwoodChamber/

PO Box 114 Bergland, Michigan 49910 1-888-464-3242 info@lakegogebicarea.com lakegogebicarea.com facebook.com/lakegogebicarea

M-28 at US-2 Wakefield, Michigan 49968 PO Box 93 1-906-224-2222 chamber@wakefieldmi.org wakefieldmi.org

213 Marquette St. Ironwood, Michigan 49938 1-906-932-5050 info@travelironwood.com travelironwood.com

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