winderz

Try to visit in the early mornings or on some of the summer twilight “zoofari’s” where the zoo stays open past the normal closing hours. During the summer when it’s muggy and hot the animals are less active. Plan a viewing course of the outdoor exhibits and then work on the indoor ones and the farm(maps make plotting easier). It’s worth a little extra walking to avoid staring at sluggish creatures.

Bug spray. Lots of bug spray.
Binoculars
Water
Camera

Unfortunately on my first visit I had none of these…

The forest is definately beautiful and the hike up the hill isn’t too steep but it’s a bit of a climb. Benches are placed at various locations for a pit stop.

When you get to the top of the hill, climb that tower! It may have been a tiring walk and the tower is quite tall. If you must, sit on the steps every few flights to catch your breath, but get all the way up there.

The view from atop is definately worth it. The long drive, the tiring walk, the bugs. I’m planning to go again in a month, only more prepared this time.

I happened to go just before dusk because I planned on watching the sunset. Clouds spoiled this plan. Also, the park closes at dusk. Because I was short on time I did not get to explore much. I can vouch for a small playground, a swimming area down the road, and a nice gazebo area for eating lunches. The map posted had a few different hiking trails as well as horse trails for riding.

My family has had a cabin between the cities of Minocqua and Tomohawk for about 20 years now so I feel more like a local than a tourist when it comes to these cities. I love them dearly, especially in the off-season.

Minocqua is very tourist oriented. Over the last ten years there has been a dramatic overhaul on this island city to make visiting it a little easier. The main street is a one-way circle, so if you miss your turn or a parking spot just keep to the inside lane, you can circle around and get back to it.

If you’re into shopping be sure to go during the day as a lot of shops do tend to close up early, especially if you are from a larger city and expect everything to be open until at least 9PM.

Minocqua fudge is delicious and a hit with all the tourists. So much so that locals have been referring to visitors as “fudgies” for years. I recommend stopping by the Root Cellar, just south of the Dairy Queen on the main street. I am always finding some oddities and delicious smelling incense there.

If visiting over Independance day, I’d recommend arriving early for the fireworks display. It never fails to deliver!

If you have the chance, visit Holiday Karts and Settlers Mill for some mini-golf and go-karting action. They’re located just south of Minocqua on HWY 51. Horse riding is also available and the place is always expanding. I do believe a third go-kart track will be added soon, but that is still a rumor I have yet to confirm.

If you’re camping and forgot some items, there is a WalMart located just north of the city on HWY 70. Very handy if you need a swimsuit or forgot your sleeping bag ;)