Winter Thrills Await on Hayward’s Snowmobile Trails

With over 600 miles of trails, the Hayward region gives snowmobilers plenty of room to explore the Northwoods of Wisconsin. Here, you’re welcomed with open arms and open trails—consider this your invitation to make some new cold-weather memories.

Getting Your Bearings

Hayward and greater Sawyer County’s extraordinary network of trails are meticulously groomed and kept open to the public by friendly neighborhood snowmobile clubs. Trails are well marked and weave naturally between serviced towns and the area’s well-known backcountry. It's a welcoming place for novice riders exploring winter power sports.

Don’t have a ride of your own? No problem. Local outfitters, including Hayward Power Sports, offer rentals and guided trips so everyone in your crew can have their own sled –  though sharing a 2-up with your partner can really rev up your connection. Once you have your ride, the sky’s the limit, with trails departing in every direction right from downtown Hayward.

Start with a Classic: Trail 31

First-timers and seasoned riders should set their sights on Trail 31. Heading south out of town, this trail has all the elements that make the Northwoods special. Roll deep through the pines, cross frozen lakes and feel the freedom of a boundless open land. Pause and take it all in over Lac Courte Oreilles, one of the more pristine lakes of the region. Known as a historic gathering place over centuries, it remains one of the more memorable winter views. Further south, the trail winds through off the beaten track wilderness where you get into more rugged country.

Go the Distance: Tuscobia Trail

Trail 31 links up with the much longer Tuscobia Trail, a bucket-list route of Sawyer County. As one of the longest rails-to-trails in the state, the 64-miles between Red Cedar Lake and Park Falls are a rider’s heaven. Following the former grade of logging trains, expect wide paths, long straightaways and charming whistlestops along the way. There’s much less meandering and route finding—just settle into a rhythm with your companions as the miles fly by.

The trail is nicely broken up into sections marked by small town warmth. Radisson, Ojibwa and Winter all cater to winter travelers; each has welcoming pit stops and taverns for gassing up, warming up or just taking some proud group photos along your journey.

Wide Open Wilderness: Lake Chippewa Flowage Trails

Lake Chippewa Flowage has a strong reputation among outdoorsy types. Considered the largest wilderness lake in the state, “Big Chip” is treasured by boaters, anglers and snowmobilers alike. The lake reliably freezes each winter, opening its famously extensive shoreline and hundreds of islands as a snowmobiler’s playground. These trails are also less weather and snow-dependent, as long as the ice conditions are safe, you can get your crew out there.

In some ways Lake Chippewa’s hidden side is more accessible in the winter. Dedicated and groomed trails thread through the maze-like expanse of inlets and bays. No competition for space either. You share the snowmobile-only trails with kindred powersport lovers. Ride across wide stretches of ice or take it slow and catch sight of frozen islands not seen by more casual summertime visitors.

Whatever your pace, a snowmobile trip in Hayward will stock you with memories and campfire stories for years.