With more than 25,000 miles of pristine snowmobile trails in Wisconsin, it’s no surprise the snowmobile is an vital part of winter fun in the state. In fact, the first sled was invented in 1924 by Carl Eliason in Sayner, and it now resides at the Vilas County Historical Museum. There’s even a Snowmobile Hall of Fame located in St. Germain.
Travel Wisconsin called on some local experts to give them some great spots for the ideal northern Wisconsin snowmobiling experience. They even tossed in some delicious spots to eat and comfortable places to sleep while you travel along the state’s scenic snowmobile trails.
Eagle River Snowmobile Trails
• The History: Eagle River, officially registered as “The Snowmobile Capital of the World” in 1964, has five snowmobile clubs that groom 600 miles of trails daily. These snowmobile trails weave through Vilas and Oneida counties, the Nicolet National Forest and around 2,400 lakes.
• A Must-See: The city’s annual Ice Castle creation is an icy architectural wonder that has changed in design every year since it was first built in 1927. It’s built by a team of volunteers headed by area firefighters who put in more than 700 man hours to cut nearly 3,000 ice blocks from a local lake and haul them into place. Trail #13 passes right by it adding more winter fun to your snowmobiling journey.
• Snowmobile Guides and Rentals: Just like fishing guides, these three businesses will take care of everything for your snowmobile expedition. There’s Decker Sno-Venture Tours, Have Sled Will Travel, and Eagle River Touring Company. You can rent snowmobiles from The Toy Shop, Boat S’Port Marine, Track Side, and Watercraft Sales.
• Where to Eat: A stop at Pitlik’s Sand Beach Resort is almost required. The extensive menu, with time-honored favorites like meatloaf and Friday Night “shore lunch,” also includes a selection of bison entrées. There’s also Lumpy’s Bar and Grill where a full menu includes a panini of the day choice. Be sure to fuel yourself up before heading out again on the snowmobile trails.
• Where to Sleep: The Chanticleer Inn, where the history dates back to 1922, provides villas, each with a view of Dollar Lake, fireplaces and full kitchens. The lodge homes at Wild Eagle Lodge also feature stone fireplaces. Or you can reserve a cabin at Eagle Waters Resort, where you can choose from units with wood-burning fireplaces or wood-burning stoves. Wisconsin’s snowmobile trails provide all the comforts of home along the way.
Three Lakes Snowmobile Trails
• The History: Lit by antique-inspired lampposts and lined with little gift shops and restaurants, the Three Lakes downtown area has an old-fashioned charm to it.
• A Must See: Winter fun is always close by.The Northern Lights Snowmobile Club holds overnight rides, on-trail weenie roasts, bonfires and weekly club rides. There’s also the Three Lakes Winery where the first cranberry wine was made, and the Northwoods Petroleum Museum with an extensive collection of classic gas pumps, neon signs on display from floor to ceiling.
• Snowmobile Rentals: Snowmobiles and helmets may be rented at Watercraft Sales in Three Lakes, Three Lakes Power Sports, and Three Lakes Do-It- Best Hardware & Rentals.
• Where to Eat: Jumpstart the day with a double espresso and some baked oatmeal at Déjà Brew. Ask about the “Mapler,” “Baconizer” and “Hockey Puck” breakfast entrées at Jake’s Bar & Grill. Also, be sure to try the “Three Lakes Poacher” at Sunset Grill. These wonderful entrées are indispensable during any snowmobiling trek.
• Where to Sleep: Stay at the Northernaire Resort, a legendary place of years gone by reborn with whirlpool tubs, fireplaces, flat-screen TVs and complete kitchens with stainless steel appliances. There’s even a full-service day spa to soothe weary muscles after a long snowmobile ride. Or, sled right in when you stay at Little Pine Motel & Resort .
St. Germain Snowmobile Trails
• The History: You might say St. Germain is in the center of it all for snowmobilers. Head in any direction and there will be snowmobile trails to accommodate your wanderlust.
• A Must See: Seeking more winter fun? Every year there’s a Radar Run where riders can race their sleds on a 1,000-foot track of ice and be timed by a radar gun. In the unlimited class, speeds can top 160 mph.
• Snowmobile Rentals: There are four places to rent snowmobiles in the area: P-Dog Snowmobile Rental & Repair, St. Germain Rentals, Paul’s Rent-All, and St. Germain Sport Marine.
• What to Eat: All the soups and entrées are homemade daily at Golden Pines where every Thursday is German Night. Relax in front of one of the most lovely stone fireplaces in the northwoods at Whitetail Inn where you can enjoy the renowned Parmesan Encrusted Tenderloin Filet.
• Where to Stay: After a long day of snowmobiling, rent the home at Rustic Manor Motor Lodge and enjoy the wood burning fireplace. There’s also a immense heated garage for snowmobile repairs. Black Bear Lodge on Little St. Germain Lake has condo-like deluxe lodge homes with stone gas fireplaces and amazing lake views. The homes and cottages at Elbert’s Resort are appointed with fireplaces too.
