Test The Waters

It’s hard to find fishing, water skiing, sand castle building, bird watching and sunset cruises all in one destination – but in our little slice of heaven on the World’s Largest Chain of Freshwater Lakes, it’s the norm. Once serving as a main source of power for the Eagle River Light and Water Commission, the Chain of 28 Lakes now energizes Northwoods getaways all summer long.

Whether sunbathing on the shores of Cranberry Lake and Otter Lake or cruising across Catfish Lake and Yellow Birch Lake, the options are endless for your summer adventure. Looking for a day long trip? Explore the entire Chain of 28 Lakes, connecting the Eagle River Chain and the Three Lakes chain through the Burnt Rollways Dam boat hoist first built in 1911. Splash into one or all 28 bodies of water.

If you like your getaways action-packed, watersports are for you. For a rush of adrenaline (and a rockin’ Instagram photo) hit the water on a wave runner, or go windsurfing, water skiing, or wakeboarding. Feel free to leave your gear at home – local shops can provide any piece of equipment, performance wear or life jackets you might need.

For those who prefer their Chain of Lakes experience far away from the wake, there are several experiences to consider. Cruise Duck Lake on Pirate’s Hideaway or relax on a scenic tour of the chain’s historic boathouses and stunning lakefront homes. Whether you want a workout on a kayak or paddleboard or the serenity of a sunset cruise on a pontoon or sailboat, the Chain of Lakes offers an endless variety of water experiences and rental options.

You don’t need to travel to an ocean coastline to enjoy a beachside vacation. Enjoy the water views and the company of loved ones while having a picnic with the family at Silver Lake Park & Beach or Eagle Lake County Park & Beach. Finding your zen is easy. Pull up your yoga mat along the shores of Little St. Germain Lake for a variety of yoga-inspired classes June through September rain or shine, including YogaPaddler and YogaRoma at Cedaroma Lodge.

Despite the variety of activities above the water’s surface, anglers would agree that the real action is down below. Recognized as one of Wisconsin’s most productive musky, walleye and northern fisheries, the Eagle River-Three Lakes Chain has long been a premiere fishing destination. The expansive 10,500 acres of fishable water spread across the Chain of 28 lakes ensures that every angler will keep their line tight all summer long. From musky hunters to beginning panfish anglers, Eagle River offers professional fishing guides for all skill levels and interests.

The wildlife scene does not stop with fishing, either. Teeming with everything from woodpeckers to bald eagles to loons, the forests, bogs and lakes around Eagle River are a haven for birdwatchers and wildlife enthusiasts. Make sure to grab your binoculars, because you never know when our namesake will swoop through.

Wisconsin may be “America’s Dairyland”, but up here we’re all about the water. Plan your Up North - Down to Earth trip and discover something new on the Chain of 28 Lakes this summer.