An easy Northwoods getaway

There’s no better place to experience the magic of fall than Oneida County in the Northwoods of Wisconsin. It’s an easy weekend trip that delivers big fall color. Pine trees mix with hardwoods to create fall scenes you won’t find anywhere else. Here’s a sample of what you can do on a two-day, two-night trip to Oneida County.

Day 1

5pm – Arrive – The communities on Oneida County are popular fall vacation destinations. Choose from resorts, cottages, vacation homes, motels and bed & breakfasts. A two-day, two-night fall getaway to Oneida County is quite affordable. Expect trip costs to range from $150 to $300 for a couple.

6pm – Dinner – Choose from dozens of restaurants offering everything from pizza to fine dining. Explore your options with our searchable restaurant listings.

7pm – Trip to Outer Space – See a star show! Because we’re so far from big-city lights, the night stars are amazing. Take them in with a warm beverage from a seat on an Oneida County dock.

9pm – Time for Bed – Rest up for the action-packed day tomorrow!

Day 2

7am – Paddling on the Willow Flowage – After grabbing a quick breakfast, head to western Oneida County, which is home to one of Wisconsin’s greatest wilderness gems—the Willow Flowage. At 6,400 acres, it is one of Wisconsin’s largest bodies of water. The flowage’s undeveloped shores and 117 wooded islands make it a spectacular place to enjoy fall color. Kayaks can be rented in Rhinelander.

10am – Shopping – Spend some time on solid ground by going on a relaxing shopping trip. The nine communities of Oneida County offer an interesting array of shops, retailers and galleries. Shop for unique home décor, jewelry, sporting equipment, specialty foods, souvenirs and locally-crafted items.

Noon – Curd sampling – It’s Wisconsin time! Head to one of our restaurants for that Wisconsin classic: just don’t forget the ranch dressing. You’ll find great curds on menus in many of our restaurants. Which ones are the best? Try them and find out!

2pm – Hit the Trails – There are many ways to enjoy Oneida County’s great trails in the fall.

Put on your biking helmet and head out to the trail for an unforgettable autumn ride. Oneida County has several mountain biking trails to choose from. The Raven Trail is located on the shores of Clear Lake, an easy drive from Minocqua. The five-mile trail features a challenging mix of intermediate and expert loops through some wild and untouched wilderness. Bicycle rentals are available in Minocqua.

Just minutes from Rhinelander’s bustling center, you’ll find a surprising piece of untouched wilderness. The Holmboe Conifer Forest is a 32-acre natural area that protects a beautiful section of old-growth forest along the south bank of the Pelican River. Walk trails through a variety of conifer species, from dark hemlock forests to towering white and red pine groves.

For another great fall experience, head to the Madeline Trail , which runs through the Northern Highland-American Legion State Forest. The Madeline Trail has four marked trail loops ranging in length from 3 to 5 1/2 miles. The forest here is an outstanding bird habitat. Bring your binoculars.

5pm – Dinner

8pm – Campfire – Crisp fall air, clear skies and lots of stories to tell—that all adds up to the perfect recipe for a campfire.

Late – Get to Bed! – Anyone’s eyes would be tired out after all that fall color.

Day 3

Wake Up Late – Time to Head Home!

And right now it’s time to you plan your own perfect trip to Oneida County.