Nestled in the heart of Wisconsin’s Northwoods, Rhinelander is home to outstanding options for outdoor recreation, friendly shops and restaurants, and lots of stories to share. You probably know our most famous tale–who hasn’t heard of the legendary Hodag, after all?–but Rhinelander is the perfect place to add a new chapter to your own story, too.
“Live the Legend” in the Rhinelander Area. The Hodag is a legendary woodland creature—if you’re lucky, you might catch a glimpse of this mysterious beast as you hike, bike, fish, paddle, shop, dine and relax in the Rhinelander Area. In Hodag Country, you’ll enjoy the perfect balance between nature and creature comforts. You’ll find a mix of activities that’s hard to beat.
Rhinelander Area lakes offer some of Wisconsin’s best fishing. The community is known as the “Ice Fishing Capital of the World.” Year-round, the fishing in the Rhinelander Area is spectacular. You’ll find lakes right in the heart of Rhinelander, such as Boom Lake, a large flowage on the Wisconsin River. There are hundreds more lakes within a short drive, including the popular Lake George, Lake Thompson, Lake Julia and the Moen Lake Chain.
Mountain bikers and road cyclists alike will enjoy bicycling in and around the Rhinelander Area. The quiet roadways that stretch out from Rhinelander are great for touring cyclists looking to enjoy the beauty of the Northwoods.
Hodag Country offers outstanding winter trails. Cross-country ski and snowshoe through snow-covered pines or glide along tamarack bogs and groves of hemlocks. Choose from several trails located just minutes from downtown Rhinelander. Excellent trail grooming combined with the area’s lodging, restaurants and numerous amenities make Hodag Country the ideal snowmobiling destination.
The Rhinelander Area offers many attractions. Tour the Pioneer Park Logging Museum Complex, which includes the Rhinelander School Museum, the Logging Museum, Soo Line Depot, Civilian Conservation Corps Museum and Model Railroad Display. Explore art galleries at ArtStart. Take in live music at a local festival. Or play a round of golf at Northwood Golf Course.
Throughout the year, you’ll find a huge variety of special events. From festivals to fishing tournaments and concerts, there is something for everyone in Rhinelander. Annual Rhinelander Area events include Hodag Heritage Festival, Art Fair on the Courthouse Lawn, Hodag Country Festival, Project North Festival and more.
The Rhinelander Area offers hotels, resorts, cottages, cabins, vacation home rentals, campgrounds and more.
