A river gorge, large boulders and striking rock outcrops along the banks define the Prairie Dells Scenic Area. You can experience the landscape from three observation platforms, one of which is accessible. A wide variety of wildlife can also be observed there. Those who enjoy spending time outdoors will find diverse trails and landscapes in Lincoln County—from a loop through deciduous forest to an extensive trail network across hilly terrain.
Riverbanks, Lakes and Forest Landscapes
On the Wisconsin River, Council Grounds State Park is near the site of former Native American encampments. A boat landing provides access to Lake Alexander and the Wisconsin River. There is also an accessible fishing pier. Otter Lake Recreation Area is equipped for day use, with a swimming beach, picnic area, boat landing and nature trails. Only non-motorized boats are allowed on Otter Lake—a key distinction when planning a day on the water.
The Otter Lake Nature Trail is a 1.3-mile loop through scenic deciduous forest. New Wood State Wildlife Area offers a different setting: its 1,600 acres bring together cedar swamps and wooded uplands. The area is suitable for hiking and birdwatching. The New Wood River attracts a wide variety of wildlife and numerous bird species.
Camp New Wood County Park also combines nature and history. The park is located on the grounds of a Civilian Conservation Corps camp that was active in the 1930s. Today, the facilities mentioned there include a boat landing on the Wisconsin River and hiking trails. The park is on State Highway 107, ten miles northwest of Merrill.
Trails for Different Interests
Underdown Recreation Area offers more than 20 miles of marked trails. Activities include horseback riding, hiking, biking, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, hunting, fishing and snowmobiling. The area is a popular destination for horseback riders; ten parking spaces for vehicles with trailers add to the facilities. If you are looking for a particular activity, you can choose between an extensive trail network and individual, clearly described routes.
The River Bend Trail has five miles of paved trails. It runs from the east side of Merrill to Council Grounds State Park and is suitable for walking, running and biking. Strollers, wheelchairs and pets are also welcome. For a different kind of outing, try the Otter Lake Nature Trail and its loop through deciduous forest. The designated Ice Age Trail and other trails on Lincoln County properties can be used without a trail pass.
As part of the Northwoods Navigators, hikers can hike the Ice Age Trail between Harrison Hills and Timberland Wilderness, including the connecting trails, and visit Merrill. Those interested in motorized routes can explore the Harrison Hills ATV Trail, a 47.8-mile two-way trail network through the area of Lincoln County Forest known as Harrison Hills. The trail passes through heavily wooded, hilly terrain with numerous lakes and wetlands. Three parking areas provide direct access to the trail network.
SARA Park also combines a stay by the water with access to the Wisconsin River: it has a family-friendly swimming beach and a public boat landing. The Trestle Bridge in Tomahawk was built in 1894 by the Chicago, Milwaukee & St. Paul Railway. It allows cyclists and pedestrians to follow the Hiawatha Trail north from SARA Park, across the Wisconsin River. The trail runs 6.6 miles north to Heafford Junction and the Lincoln–Oneida County line. There it connects with the 18-mile Bearskin State Park Trail, which links to Minocqua.
Museums and Architectural History
In Tomahawk, the Log Cabin Museum features exhibits on farming, logging and the history of the local railroad. The First School Museum has permanent exhibits, including a kitchen from around 1900, military memorabilia from veterans, a one-room schoolhouse and items from early stores. In Merrill, the Merrill Historical Museum explores the period when the city was called Jenny Bull Falls and its subsequent development.
The Lincoln County Courthouse is a Beaux-Arts-style building; its formal dedication took place on September 23, 1903. Together with the museums and the site of the former CCC camp, it offers another way to explore the region’s history. You can focus your explorations on riverbanks and water, discover a variety of trails or explore the cultural history of the area’s communities.
Discover more destinations: Tomahawk, Merrill, Jefferson County, Wood County, Portage County, Taylor, Waukesha and Douglas County.
Go to the main travel overview: Wisconsin.
