Family-Friendly Day of Adventure
The rush of day to day life has us running from sun up to sun down! When it comes to our vacation time, it’s important to find activities for the entire family to enjoy together. A getaway to Sayner-Star Lake is the perfect opportunity to unplug and reconnect with your family. Here are our recommendations for a family-friendly day full of adventure in the Northwoods!
Hike the Star Lake Nature Trail
Fill your thermos with coffee, pack a few snacks and begin your family adventure with a morning hike on the Star Lake Nature Trail, located in the Northern Highland American Legion State Forest! Before you start, be sure to stop by the kiosk (located at the trailhead) for the trail map and interesting facts about the area. There are two loops, a 1 mile interpretive loop and a 2.5 mile loop, which will take you along the pristine lakeshore of Star Lake. You’ll also venture over scenic boardwalks and through the first pine plantation in northern Wisconsin. There are plenty of opportunities along the trail to stop for a rest and for the snack you packed!
Discover the Vilas County Historical Museum
To slow the pace down a bit and give the kids a break after the morning hike, take a step back in time at the Vilas Historical Museum, located in downtown Sayner. You can’t miss it! Just look for the blue ox and lumberjack in the front. (This is a great family photo op location, by the way!) The museum is filled with interesting exhibits and remnants of the county’s history. You will even find the first snowmobile on display, which was invented right in Sayner!
Bike the Heart of Vilas County Trail
Grab your bikes and head to the Heart of Vilas County Bike Trail for enjoyable family riding! This 52-mile paved trail system winds through lush wooded areas, over bridges and along lakes and waterways. The beautifully maintained trail connects the communities of St. Germain, Sayner, Boulder Junction, Manitowish Waters and Mercer. Stop along the trail for great shopping as well as restaurants and other family-friendly activities.
End the Day with Ice Cream
Everybody loves ice cream, and no trip to the Northwoods is complete without stopping for a scoop (or two) of your favorite flavor served in a waffle cone! Located along the bike trail, 2 miles west of Sayner on Hwy N is The Corner Store, who serves hand-scooped ice cream, pizza and even has an arcade! Also serving your favorite scoop of deliciousness is the Star Lake Store, located in downtown Star Lake, off Hwy K. There’s no better way to end a family day-adventure, with everyone smiling!
For a family-friendly vacation to the Northwoods of Wisconsin, explore our lodging options in Sayner-Star Lake! Start planning your getaway today!