Vilas County Visitor Guide - 2020

LAKES & WATERWAYS
Vilas County is home to one of the largest collections of freshwater lakes in the world, with more than 1,300 beautiful
lakes and 73 rivers and streams. There are large lake chains with miles of shoreline to explore and backcountry waters that
haven’t even been named. You can see details on our largest lakes on pages 11-14, including GPS coordinates, what you’ll
fi nd there, public access information, and the size and depth of each lake.
But there are some things that can’t be charted or graphed, like the wonder of seeing the Milky Way from the end of a dock
or how it feels to sit with someone special on the shore and watch the sun dip below the trees. Find your own moment—and
your new favorite lake in Vilas County.
GET ON THE WATER
Vilas County’s lakes have lured people to the Northwoods
for more than a century, and these waterways are still as
beautiful and unspoiled as they were during the days of the
steam trains. Here are some of the best ways to enjoy the
county’s remarkable lakes.
PADDLING
If you’re looking for a paddling adventure, you’ve found it.
Launch your canoe, kayak or stand-up paddleboard on one
of our established routes or chart your own course. There
are endless calm waters to explore.
TUBING
Outfi tters on the Wisconsin River are ready to set you up for
a relaxing trip. They’ll help you with all the details, including
the best places to spot wildlife.
SWIMMING
Is there anything more refreshing than a swim in a
Northwoods lake? Dive into the cool, clear waters of a
Vilas County lake or soak up the sun on the soft sand of a
secluded, postcard-perfect beach.
FISHING
Vilas County’s rich fi shing waters attract anglers throughout
the year. Here, you’ll find everything from crappie, perch
and bluegill to hard-fighting walleye, pike and musky. Vilas
County lakes also hold some of the biggest, most beautiful
smallmouth bass in the state. When temperatures drop,
grab your auger to experience one of the best areas for ice
fi shing in the Northwoods.
BOATING
Boaters will find endless waters to explore, including big
lake chains perfect for a day cruise, and lakes that are ideal
for waterskiing and tubing.
8 LAKES & WATERWAYS
VILAS.ORG