The Ultimate Hayward Itinerary

In need of a Northern Wisconsin getaway? No matter what time of the year, Hayward, Wisconsin is a hub of adventure. Follow along for the ultimate Hayward itinerary, where we taste the local flavors, join in on the outdoor fun, and discover a few famous hotspots. Let the Hayward adventures begin.

Local Flavors

To begin the ultimate Hayward itinerary, let’s dig right into the good stuff–Hayward’s local flavors. From southern-inspired barbeque to homemade wine, you’ll undoubtedly fall in love with these one-of-a-kind, delectable tastes.

Dave Anderson’s Secrets

Without further ado, we’re starting at Tamarack Farms, home to Dave Anderson’s famous barbeque. Dave strives to keep his father’s connection at the heart of every dish, given his southern, Oklahoman roots. In addition, Dave also learned from his father the importance of using the finest and freshest ingredients. He goes above and beyond, freshly grinding all of his secret seasonings. Trust us, you’ll taste the difference.

Specialty Dishes

Now that we’ve let you in on the secrets, it’s time to spill the best of the best dishes. To name a few, Tamarack Farms is quickly becoming known for its wings, especially the garlic parmesan smoked wings. Any chicken tender lovers out there? These are some of the greatest in the state, cooked to juicy perfection and paired with a specialty Southern comeback sauce that will make your taste buds dance.

Tamarack Winery

As Dave continued to make mouth-watering barbeque sauces, using real fruit juices, he developed quite a unique palate. Following his flavorful senses, Dave began creating wines, including blackberry, blueberry, raspberry, and cranberry blends. As the saying goes, go big or go home, and Dave did just that; he entered into an international wine competition! And his senses paid off… Out of 2,500 entries, Tamarack Winery brought back several medals, including 2 golds, 2 silvers, and 1 bronze! 

How can you beat these Hayward flavors?

Outdoor Fun

Next on the ultimate Hayward itinerary, we’re going from local flavors to outdoor fun! With vast wilderness and waterways, Hayward is a playground for outdoor enthusiasts. 

Summit Lake Game Farm

Want to relax in the serenity of any Wisconsin season? Summit Lake Game Farm makes an ideal year-round stay. Located right on Summit Lake, the game farm houses an 88-site campground with access to a full beach. In addition, they offer 3 cabins for rent. It may be just the cozy, secluded retreat you’ve been dreaming of.

Calling all sportsmen! Summit Lake Game Farm has just about everything you love. To name a few, they offer a 5-stand station, 10 stations of sporting clays, and a 1,000-yard rifle range! For avid hunters, Summit Lake Game Farm has endless opportunities, with 400 acres of pheasant hunting. 

All in all, this property totals in at 7,400 acres and is open for in-season hunting, including bear, deer, and turkey. Everything a sportsman loves is right here at Summit Lake Game Farm. The best part? New timers are welcome, with gun rentals, ammunition, trainers, and dogs for hunting all on-site.

Barker Lake Golf Course

Looking for some competitive outdoor fun? Barker Lake Golf Course, located on Barker Lake, is the place for you. Barker Lake Golf Course is not only home to a pristine and unique course, but also holds an extensive history.

Dating back to the 1920s, the course was built by Chicago gangster Joe Soltis. Joe Soltis, a beer baron, began a brewery before the prohibition and continued to brew amidst the historical era. Using these funds, he built this marvelous playground tucked into the trees. While you play, you’ll be surrounded by scenery of the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest on one side. As your competition unfolds, notice Mr. Soltis’ Scottish-style links that bring on the challenge.

Birkebeiner Trail

From one outdoor gem to another, we’re heading to the Birkebeiner Trail. The Birkebeiner Trail is no ordinary trail; it’s unique in its year-round use. This all-season trail totals 55 km in length, from Hayward to Cable. In the warmer months, enjoy mountain biking and hiking. While in the colder months, visitors and locals alike can embark on snowy excursions like cross-country skiing. Known for cross-country skiing, Hayward is home to the American Birkebeiner Ski Race–the largest cross-country ski marathon in North America! 

Hayward Hotspots

To end our ultimate Hayward itinerary, we’re stopping at one-of-a-kind Hayward hotspots. From greenery to history, Hayward is not only a hub of adventure, but also fascinating attractions. 

Winter Greenhouse

Aspiring to grow a green thumb? Head to Winter Greenhouse–home to over 2,000 types of plants and 6 greenhouses! Each greenhouse has their own unique plants. Walk through the vast varieties of vegetables, herbs, annuals, tropicals, perennials, and trees!

This Hayward hotspot has created quite the buzz, with visitors coming for the pleasant and peaceful atmosphere and beautiful display gardens. Winter Greenhouse surpasses all expectations, seeking to share the secrets behind growing well and properly.

Freshwater Fishing Hall of Fame

From flowers to fish, all the Hayward secrets are coming out! Add the Freshwater Fishing Hall of Fame to your list. It’s THE North American freshwater fishing record keeper. 

With over 125 species and 3,000 listed entries in the record book, this hotspot holds much of the history and heritage of freshwater sport fishing. When many people think of Hayward, they think muskies, and BIG muskies at that. In fact, on site, you’ll get the chance to see the world record, caught in the famous Chippewa Flowage.

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While we wrap up our ultimate Hayward itinerary, it’s time to plan your next Northern Wisconsin getaway. No matter what time of year, Hayward is a hub of endless adventure, with local flavors, outdoor fun, and unique hotspots. Make new year-round memories up North in Hayward, Wisconsin. 

See the adventures unfold by watching this Discover Wisconsin episode, ‘Wisconsin’s Northern Treasures: Sawyer County Spotlight’ below:

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Hailey Rose: Writer for Discover Mediaworks. A born & bred Wisconsinite with a love for fishing, hunting, and enjoying the great outdoors.