Leaf Peeping 101: Where to Catch Peak Fall Colors in Minocqua
When the temps begin to cool and there’s an invigorating crispness to the air, it’s time to start planning your fall leaf-peeping adventure. Leaf peeping – the annual practice of identifying the best spots to enjoy fall’s vibrant colors – is a popular activity in Wisconsin. Starting around mid-September and continuing through the first half of October, the state’s foliage bursts into impressive crimson, orange and golden hues, which are a joy to view. While there are many great locales throughout the state to drink in the fall colors, one of the best spots is Minocqua.
Views From the Water
Minocqua sits in Wisconsin’s northern tier and is surrounded by more than 107,000 acres of state and national forestland, so there are plenty of leaves here to observe. It’s also home to a sparkling chain of lakes, whose sapphire waters beautifully reflect autumn’s bold palette. If this appeals to you, book a pontoon cruise along the Minocqua Chain of Lakes. As you enjoy the fall colors, keep an eye out for the wildlife, especially the loons and eagles that frequent the area. You can rent your own pontoon boat, too.
Leaf-peeping on the Trails
Another solid option is to grab your family and friends for a leisurely stroll along one of the numerous trails winding through the area, such as those found in the Madeline Lake Trail System. About 16 miles of trail here are split into four routes ranging from easy to moderate, with some rolling hills. The paths meander past four lakes, including the system’s namesake, Madeline Lake.
Visitors and locals also give high marks to the Raven Trails, which roll 14.5 miles through the woods and around Clear, Hemlock and Inkpot Lakes. The Nature Trail Loop is especially popular, as it’s an easy 1.4-mile jaunt.
Cruising Through Autumn
If biking is your passion, head for the Bearskin State Trail, which unspools about 20 miles between Minocqua and Tomahawk. Once a railroad corridor used to transport white pine logs, today it’s a popular recreational path. Cruise along its level, packed-granite surface while taking in the outstanding fall colors. You’ll cross more than a dozen railroad trestles along the way, all of which offer striking views of the numerous lakes dotting the region.
At some point, stop at the Greater Minocqua Area Visitors Bureau for info about fall color tours, then hop in your car. The area is home to three of Wisconsin’s Rustic Roads – lightly traveled routes noted for their scenery – and all will lead you through hardwood and pine forests, and past burbling creeks and shimmering lakes.
High Above the Treetops
The more adventurous ones in your crew can actually fly through the fall colors by signing on for a Northwoods Zip Line Adventure Tour. The company offers several excursions, with its most popular being the Full Adventure Tour. This 3.5-hour experience will allow you to sail along 13 ziplines, two of which cross a lake, and tackle five adventure bridges and 14 aerial elements, such as a rope bridge. There’s also some rappelling and a cargo-net climb.
No matter which activities you add to your itinerary, don’t forget to incorporate a simple one – sitting back with your loved ones and enjoying fall’s colorful display at sunset. As the sun sinks into the horizon, it casts a warm light that makes the trees’ golden, crimson and orange tones appear even more vibrant. Snap a few photos, too, so you’ll have memories of your colorful excursion.
Deals
