3 ATV Destinations for a Wisconsin Guy's Getaway
Whether you’re planning a weekend trip or a week-long vacation, Wisconsin’s outdoors are the perfect location for your next guy’s getaway. One of the best ways to experience the Wisconsin wilderness is on the back of an ATV, and the state’s expansive trail network provides plenty of opportunities to do just that. Grab the boys and read on for our suggestions of what trails to hit, where to stay, and more!
140 Miles of Trails: An ATV Getaway to Hayward
The Trails
The Hayward Lakes region of Sawyer County has some of the best ATV trails the state can offer. The trails in this region are well maintained and offer both challenging options, like the popular Dead Horse Trail, and more scenic routes like the Tuscobia Trail. To get the most out of this area’s extensive trail system, plan on at least two full days of ATVing.
Where to Stay
A stay at one of the rustic cabins or lodges in the area will guarantee you get the full Northwoods experience. Nystrom’s Resort is a great option if you want to maximize your riding time, as the resort offers easy access to the area’s best trails. If you’d rather be less remote, Mallard’s Landing in Hayward offers a variety of lakefront cabins that are close to town.
Where to Eat
The bar and grill at Pat’s Landing is south of Hayward on Chief Lake and offers beautiful views and big burgers. For stick-to-your-ribs comfort foods try out Old Southern BBQ, the perfect place to feast with your crew after a long day hitting the trails.
Let it Snow: Winter Ready Trails in Burnett County
The Trails
One of Wisconsin’s best ATV trails for winter riding is the southern portion of the Gandy Dancer trail in Burnett County. Here, your group can experience the incredible natural beauty of Wisconsin’s Northwoods in the winter. Full details on where and when you can ride can be found on the Burnett County ATV Trail page.
Where to Stay
Staying in Siren will allow you to quickly pick up the southern end of the Gandy Dancer trail. For a more modern take on the Northwoods experience, the Best Western Northwoods Lodge offers comfortable, log-cabin themed accommodations with all the amenities. The Lodge at Crooked Lake is another excellent option in the area, and features Northwoods-inspired rooms.
Where to Eat
Is there anything better than breakfast for dinner? Refuel at The Narrows Waterfront Pub and Eatery, serving breakfast every day until 10 PM. If you make your way up to Danbury, be sure to grab a bite at the Voyager Village Grill. Their menus feature hearty entrees like BBQ Ribs and loaded sandwiches, like the Hangover Burger topped with a fried egg and red pepper marmalade.
Beer and Cheese Country: ATVing in Monroe
The Trails
Monroe, known as the Swiss Cheese Capital of the World, is located in the picturesque Driftless Region of western Wisconsin. You can hop on the excellent Cheese Country Trail right in town and begin the 47-mile ride north to Mineral Point. Some trail highlights include ample amounts of mud, dozens of old railroad bridges and scenic lakes in the Cadiz Springs Recreation Area.
Where to Stay
The Sweet Minihaha Campground is only twenty minutes outside of Monroe and offers a great camping experience right on the Sugar River. If your crew would prefer to sleep indoors, book a suite at the Chalet Landhaus Inn in New Glarus.
Where to Eat
Plan to take in some Swiss heritage at Turner Hall in Monroe, where you can experience an authentic Grand Hall with the area’s largest wooden floor, enjoy traditional Swiss food and drink at the Rathskeller Restaurant, and take in a game of bowling with the boys. To get in your burgers and tex-mex fix, head over to Pancho and Lefty’s, a legendary local restaurant in Monroe.
Wisconsin is packed with ATV trails ready to be explored. Find more places to ride with these five must-experience trails, or check out our ATV directory.
