A one-week road trip along the Tuscobia State Trail in Wisconsin can be a fantastic adventure filled with nature, outdoor activities and local charm.
We know the places to stay, activities to embark on and peaceful spots to explore and have come up with a suggested one-week road trip itinerary.
One-Week Road Trip on the Tuscobia State Trail
Here’s our suggested route to make the most out of your trip on the Tuscobia Trail:
Day 1: Start in Rice Lake
Morning: Arrive in Rice Lake and get settled into your accommodations. Pick up any last-minute supplies for your journey.
Afternoon: Visit the Rice Lake Tourist Park for a relaxed afternoon by the lake or explore the local shops and restaurants in downtown Rice Lake.
Evening: Have dinner at a local eatery and prepare for the trail journey.
Day 2: Rice Lake to Birchwood
Morning: Start your journey on the Tuscobia State Trail heading east towards Birchwood. The trail from Rice Lake to Birchwood is about 13 miles and offers beautiful woodland scenery.
Afternoon: Arrive in Birchwood, known as the Bluegill Capital of Wisconsin. Enjoy a local meal and explore the small-town charm.
Evening: Overnight in Birchwood. Check out local events or a quiet evening at your lodging.
Day 3: Birchwood to Hayward
Morning: Continue east on the Tuscobia Trail. The stretch to Hayward is about 28 miles and is surrounded by dense forests and wetlands.
Afternoon: Arrive in Hayward. Visit the National Fresh Water Fishing Hall of Fame.
Evening: Enjoy Hayward’s lively dining scene and stay overnight.
Day 4: Day in Hayward
Full Day: Spend a day in Hayward. Consider fishing, boating, or hiking in the surrounding areas. Explore local shops and perhaps catch a community event or a seasonal festival.
Day 5: Hayward to Winter
Morning: Depart from Hayward and head to Winter, a journey of approximately 21 miles on the Tuscobia Trail.
Afternoon: On arrival, explore the quiet town of Winter. Visit local artisans or hike nearby trails.
Evening: Relax in Winter for the night, enjoying a peaceful evening.
Day 6: Winter to Park Falls
Morning: Travel from Winter to Park Falls, covering around 26 miles on the trail.
Afternoon: Explore Park Falls, known for its rich logging history. Check out local museums or scenic spots.
Evening: Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant and stay overnight in Park Falls.
Day 7: Park Falls to Rice Lake
Morning: Prepare for your journey back to Rice Lake, or if you’re up for more adventure, explore more of the surrounding areas or extend your trail ride.
Afternoon: Return to Rice Lake and possibly enjoy a farewell meal or last-minute shopping.
Evening: Conclude your road trip.
It is recommended theck the condition of the Tuscobia Trail before you go, especially during seasonal transitions, as parts can be more suitable for ATVs or snowmobiles depending on the weather.
Always have a backup plan for accommodations and travel, as amenities along the trail can be rustic and towns are spaced out.
Activities on the Tuscobia State Trail
For your week-long road trip along the Tuscobia State Trail, you have a wealth of activities to enjoy that take full advantage of the beautiful Wisconsin landscape and the trail’s amenities.
Here are some recommended activities to include in your itinerary:
Hiking and Biking
The Tuscobia State Trail is excellent for hiking and biking. You can explore different sections each day, experiencing the diverse landscapes from forests to wetlands.
Take leisurely walks in the more scenic and less rugged parts of the trail to enjoy bird watching and possibly spotting local wildlife.
Fishing and Boating
Visit Birchwood and Hayward, both known for excellent fishing opportunities, including the bluegill in Birchwood and a wider variety in Hayward.
Alternatively, spend a day on the waters of Rice Lake or near Hayward, where you can rent kayaks, canoes, or even motorboats.
Local Attractions
Visit Museums in Hayward and don’t miss the National Fresh Water Fishing Hall of Fame, which is both an educational and quirky landmark.
Explore local history in Park Falls through its logging museums or historical centers.
Outdoor Sports
Parts of the Tuscobia Trail are open to ATV use, providing a thrilling way to cover more ground and explore the rugged terrain.
If your visit coincides with snowy conditions, the trail is also popular for snowmobiling in certainly stretches. At the same time of year, you can take part in the Tuscobia Trail Winter Ultra.
Relaxation & Leisure
Enjoy meals at local diners and restaurants to experience regional cuisine, particularly known for its dairy and meat products.
Take some time to browse local shops, especially in Hayward, where you can find unique crafts, outdoor gear, and souvenirs.
Community Events
Depending on the time of your visit, there might be local festivals, farmer’s markets, or community gatherings that can provide a deeper dive into local culture.
With the natural beauty along the trail, photography enthusiasts will find plenty of opportunities to capture stunning landscapes, especially during sunrise or sunset.