Jefferson County: The Official Guide 2013 15th Annual Edition
Jefferson County: The Official Guide 2013 15th Annual Edition
Jefferson County: The Official Guide 2013 15th Annual Edition
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RECREATION AND LEGENDS<br />
Legendary Lake Mills, in beautiful <strong>Jefferson</strong><br />
<strong>County</strong>, Wisconsin, is blessed with an abundance<br />
of natural beauty. From the mysterious waters of<br />
Rock Lake to the scenic Glacial Drumlin Bike<br />
Trail to historic Aztalan State Park and Museum<br />
to the picturesque downtown shopping and<br />
dining district, Lake Mills has something for<br />
everyone!<br />
Why are the waters of Rock Lake mysterious?<br />
Many tales have been told of the stone structures<br />
that are reported to be found on the bottom<br />
of Rock Lake. One such legend says that after<br />
suffering a long and terrible drought, natives<br />
appealed to their gods for help by building and<br />
using sacrificial pyramids. In answer to their<br />
prayers, great waters soon covered the pyramids<br />
and created the beautiful lake the Indians came<br />
to call Tyranena, meaning “Sparkling Waters.”<br />
Legends aside, Rock Lake is a crystal clear<br />
1,371-acre recreational oasis, beckoning funseeking<br />
visitors and residents to its cool waters<br />
and tree-lined shores. <strong>The</strong> lake is surrounded<br />
by five parks which offer fishing, swimming,<br />
canoeing, rowing, kayaking, water-skiing, or<br />
a leisurely sunset cruise, all part of your next<br />
legendary experience.<br />
22 <strong>Jefferson</strong> <strong>County</strong>: THE OFFICIAL GUIDE <strong>2013</strong><br />
LAKE<br />
Located on the southern edge of Lake Mills, the<br />
Glacial Drumlin Trail offers recreation for hikers<br />
and bikers alike. <strong>The</strong> 47 mile trail follows the old<br />
Chicago and Northwestern railway. It is open<br />
365 days a year – trail pass needed. Navigating<br />
the trail, you will find one of Lake Mills’ newest<br />
treasures, Zeloski Marsh.<br />
HISTORY<br />
Just east of Lake Mills lies Aztalan State Park<br />
(see pg 25), one of Wisconsin’s most important<br />
archaeological sites. It showcases an ancient<br />
Middle-Mississippian village that thrived<br />
between 1000 and 1300 A.D. <strong>The</strong> people who<br />
settled Aztalan built large, flat-topped pyramidal<br />
mounds and a stockade around their village.<br />
Just north of the state park is the Aztalan<br />
Museum, operated by the Lake Mills-Aztalan<br />
Historical Society. <strong>The</strong> site features two pioneer<br />
churches as well as other 19th century structures<br />
and displays. <strong>The</strong> displays feature historic items<br />
dating back to 1000 A.D.<br />
SHOPPING & DINING<br />
In the heart of downtown is Commons<br />
Park. It is surrounded by charming 19th<br />
century buildings that house unique shops and
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