Up for a wild and scenic ride? Come along as we discover some of Wisconsin’s most exciting outdoor adventures across the counties! From the Island Shore and the Northwoods Territory to the Coastal Corridor, River Country, and the Driftless Area, we’re covering it all.
Island Shore: Bayfield, Ashland, & Douglas Counties
Let’s start on Wisconsin’s Island Shore, where Bayfield, Ashland, and Douglas counties are home to some of the most stunning natural beauty in the state!
Bayfield County: Byway & Islands
First, follow the Wisconsin Lake Superior Scenic Byway—a 70-mile route that winds through gorgeous forests, past pristine sandy beaches, and alongside the crystal-clear shores of Lake Superior. It begins in Bayfield County and stretches all the way to Douglas County.
Hop on the route in Bayfield County, then make a pit stop at the Apostle Islands, which are truly amazing and a must-see! Want to take a guided cruise? Climb aboard Apostle Islands Cruises and experience the lakeshore from the water.
Ashland County: Madeline Island
Prefer to be your own tour guide? Plan your trip on the Madeline Island Ferry. Drive aboard and be transported to Ashland County’s crown jewel—Madeline Island! As the largest of the 22 Apostle Islands, Madeline Island is a must-visit.
While you’re there, check out Big Bay State Park—a 2,350-acre park with miles of beach, campsites, and over seven miles of hiking and nature trails. Itching to get out on the water? Head to Big Bay Town Park for kayaking, canoeing, swimming, or even paddleboarding!
Douglas County: Rivers & Waterfalls
Back on the mainland, continue along the scenic shoreline, and you’ll end up in Douglas County—an angler’s paradise! It’s home to the Bois Brule River, nicknamed the “River of Presidents.”
Fun fact: five U.S. presidents have fished these waters! And that’s not all… Douglas County is also home to Wisconsin’s tallest waterfall, Big Manitou Falls, located right in the picturesque Pattison State Park. Discover more outdoor adventures in Douglas County by clicking here.
Northwoods Territory: Forest, Vilas, Oneida, & Langlade Counties
Up next, venture to the Northwoods Territory, home to Forest, Vilas, Oneida, and Langlade counties—each offering its own unique set of outdoor adventures!
Forest County: Byway & Off-Road Trails
Start the adventure in Forest County by taking the Nicolet–Wolf River Scenic Byway, which winds through the heart of the stunning Chequamegon‑Nicolet National Forest and follows the headwaters of the pristine Wolf River.
Want to explore off‑road? Forest County also has over 50 miles of UTV‑friendly trails that link untouched forests with welcoming communities. For a sneak peek of what’s waiting, check out this Discover Wisconsin episode!
Vilas County: Lakes & Paved Trails
Get back on the byway and head next to Vilas County—the land of more than 1,300 lakes! If you love water recreation, this is a must‑stop. From fishing to paddling, there are endless ways to get on the water.
If you’re into cycling, Vilas County is also home to the Heart of Vilas County Bike Trail, offering more than 52 miles of paved trails that connect St. Germain, Sayner, Boulder Junction, Manitowish Waters, and Mercer.
Oneida County: Parks & Golf Courses
In neighboring Oneida County, outdoor time comes in a few different flavors! Check out the Cedric A. Vig Outdoor Classroom, a great place to hike and take on a challenge—if you’re up for it. There’s even a ropes course on site!
Any golfers reading along? If you’re in the mood for a round, Northwood Golf Club offers a scenic 18‑hole course set among the towering pines. For a quick overview of the course, click here and let the competition begin!
Langlade County: Rapids & Rides
Conclude the scenic loop in Langlade County, where the fun leans more toward water and trails! Stop by River Forest Campground & Rafts for an epic day in the rapids. Navigate through Class 3 and 4 rapids. You can expect exciting waves, challenging maneuvers, and a few dips!
Then, saddle up and hit the trails! If you love horseback riding, the Crocker Hills Recreation Area is a must‑ride. And if you don’t have a horse of your own, not to worry. Hwy 45 Riding Stables offers amazing guided rides!
Coastal Corridor: Door County
Make your way to the eastern edge of the state, also known as the Coastal Corridor! In this region, Door County steals the spotlight.
Coastal Byway
Buckle up and start your adventure on the Door County Coastal Byway! This impressive 66‑mile loop showcases the stunning and scenic Lake Michigan, along with the Bay of Green Bay, the Niagara Escarpment bluffs, and the eight charming communities it passes through.
Egg Harbor, Bailey’s Harbor, Liberty Grove, Ephraim, Gibraltar, Jacksonport, Sister Bay, and Sevastopol each have something unique to offer! From live music and festivals to cherry and apple orchard tours, classic fish boils, boating, fishing, golf, and more, there’s so much to enjoy.
Famous Lighthouses
To see Lake Michigan from a new vantage point, check out one of Door County’s 11 lighthouses. One of the most iconic? Cana Island Lighthouse, where you can walk across a stone causeway (if the water is low enough) or ride a haywagon over the sandy causeway.
Climb the 97‑step staircase for panoramic views of the lake and peninsula, tour the lighthouse and surrounding buildings, join a kayak tour, or just wander the island at your own pace. Talk about peaceful!
Scenic Parks
Back on the byway, more adventures await! Detour to visit a few scenic parks, including Newport State Park—Wisconsin’s only official wilderness state park and its first International Dark Sky Park.
Here, you can enjoy hiking, biking, and even wildlife viewing among beautiful forests, wetlands, and meadows. Want to live on the wild side? Make it an unforgettable camping experience. For more along the byway, watch this Discover Wisconsin episode!
River Country: Crawford & Grant Counties
Head west to explore River Country, home to the breathtaking Crawford and Grant counties, where the Mississippi River winds its way through the landscape!
Crawford County: Roadways & Natural Areas
In River Country, let the Lower Wisconsin River Road—Wisconsin’s 100‑mile Scenic Byway 60—lead the way! Right in the county seat of Prairie du Chien, it intersects with the Wisconsin Great River Road, opening the door to even more adventures (we’ll get to those next)!
Just off the road, embark on a spring hike at Sugar Creek Bluff State Natural Area, where a trail climbs to a bluff‑top prairie with gorgeous river views, wildflowers, and birding. Then, explore Rush Creek State Natural Area, known for its peaceful prairies and limestone bluffs.
Grant County: State Parks
Follow the river road into Grant County, where Wyalusing State Park—one of Wisconsin’s oldest state parks—awaits on the bluffs above the confluence of the Wisconsin and Mississippi rivers! Camp above the water, hike the trails, paddle the river, scan for birds, and plan a picnic.
Just down the way, Nelson Dewey State Park also overlooks the Mississippi from a 500‑foot bluff, mixing history with outdoor fun. Camp, hike, or picnic with the river stretched out below, then discover nearby historic sites like Stonefield! See a preview of what awaits here.
Driftless Area: Vernon, Sauk, & Iowa Counties
Last but certainly not least, welcome to the Driftless Area, a truly stunning region in Wisconsin.
Here, you’ll find Vernon, Sauk, and Iowa counties, where more outdoor adventures await!
Vernon County: Trails & Tributaries
Begin in Vernon County on none other than the Wisconsin Great River Road, the state’s only National Scenic Byway! Hike scenic trails at Kickapoo Valley Reserve, then spin your wheels on the Hillsboro State Trail for an epic ride!
Trade two wheels for water and paddle the winding Kickapoo River—Wisconsin’s largest tributary! And if you’re feeling lucky? Cast a line into the Mississippi River at the iconic Clements Fishing Barge. Get a glimpse into all the action here.
Sauk County: Climbs & Canoes
Slide over into Sauk County for some of the most iconic views in the state! Devil’s Lake State Park is a must-stop—just one of the many incredible spots in the Driftless you can check out here. Home to stunning bluffs and a tucked-away lake, there’s a reason it’s so popular!
Bringing the kids? Tower Hill State Park offers an easier climb and a beautiful overlook. And there are plenty of other kid-friendly adventures nearby! Check them out here. And on the water side, you can canoe the wonderful Wisconsin River for a slower‑paced, scenic float.
Iowa County: Historic Sites
In Iowa County, history and scenery come together in the best way possible! The House on the Rock is a one‑of‑a‑kind stop—a quirky attraction built on a chimney‑like rock that offers more than just amazing views.
Just down the road in Mineral Point, Pendarvis invites you to walk the historic grounds, home to preserved stone cottages and the stories of Cornish miners who once lived here. Dive deeper into this charming town here.
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You’ve officially got your roadmap to the counties, from the Island Shore and the Northwoods Territory, through the Coastal Corridor, River Country, and into the Driftless Area. Wisconsin’s outdoor adventures are waiting! Which one will you try first?
*This article is brought to you with support from the Wisconsin Counties Association.
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Hailey Marien: Writer for Discover Mediaworks. A born & bred Wisconsinite with a love for fishing, hunting, and enjoying the great outdoors.
