Northwoods Forest History Experience Heritage Tour

This tour was curated by: Manitowish Waters Historical Society

Entries on This Tour

Discover a cultural gem within the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest! Located at the idyllic headwaters of the South Fork Flambeau River on the Pike Lake Chain, one of the last artifacts of the the fabled pine logging days of the late 19th century is available for public exploration. Hiking and interpretive trails with picnic areas in the Doering Wilderness Study Area presents a visit to the past in a pristine setting. Visitors will experience the dam that was rebuilt in 1995, according to authorized specifications of 1878 with the original 1876 iron equipment in place. Quite a unique living history adventure!Round Lake Dam is a four-season destination to see the natural beauty of a significant historical site.

2. Trout Lake Game Farm

At the start of the 20th century, Wisconsin Progressive policies created a Forestry Headquarters on Trout Lake to ensure Northwoods resources would be scientifically managed for future generations. In 1912, a game farm was created on the Trout Lake campus to protect and restore Wisconsin historic game populations. Ultimately, the game farm was dedicated to reintroducing elk, which proved to be difficult and expensive. This game farm was located on 300 acres between Allequash and Trout lakes. Those wishing to drive into the old game farm need to take Allequash Lake Road off of County Highway M toward the boat landing.

3. Trout Lake A Unique Northern Wisconsin Lake and Fisherys

Trout Lake stands out as one of the largest and deepest lakes in northern Wisconsin. People have been drawn to Trout Lakes' natural beauty and diverse resources for thousands of years. Trout lakes' fisheries helped support the Trout Lake band of the Ojibwe for generations at their traditional village at the outlet of the Trout River. Early non Indigenous visitors and residents were stunned by the fantastic fishing along Trout Lake that attracted both sport fishing and market fishing.With natural beauty, excellent fishing and close proximity to rail transportation, Trout Lake emerged as a leading resort destination. Resort owners, guides and local businesses discovered that local fisheries spurred tourists to flock to the Northwoods.Trout Lake stood apart from other northern lakes with a rare deep water fishery that held a genetically unique species of lake trout. Advertisers, promoters and magazines called these large, deep water fish "salmon trout,” and folks were drawn to fish Big Trout Lake. Actually, Trout Lakes' fishery has numerous complex elements that make this body of water a special destination.Importantly, scientists, tribal communities and state government have been conducting research to better guide fishery management practices.A DNR sign erected in 2023 details much of the content found in this Clio entry and is located on Cathedral Point on Trout Lake. See the map below.

4. Wisconsin's First Tree Nursery

At the turn of the 20th century, the new Wisconsin Department of Forestry began to reclaim land devastated by the cutover and forest fires. Creating the first state tree nursery became a key part of reestablishing Northwoods forests. Trout Lake in Vilas County was selected for both the State Forestry Headquarters and the state tree nursery. Beginning in 1910, ground was cleared and construction of the nursery began. State Forester E. M. Griffith had a strong sense of urgency to begin replanting and demonstrating how modern forestry practices could rebuild Wisconsin's northern forests.Importantly, the Trout Lake nursery began to produce a variety of seedlings that were quickly planted by forestry crews. Wisconsin foresters and forest rangers monitored the emerging regrowth, and within a few years, replanting efforts yielded strong results. Over time, other tree nurseries were built across Wisconsin, and theTrout Lake nursery was closed in 1963.Today, visitors can see the old nursery space by visiting the Trout Lake Ranger Station and walking along the bike trail and Forest Headquarters Road. Please see maps attached below for specifics locations and respect DNR signs regarding access.

5. North Trout Lake Yawkey-Bissel Logging Camp and Railroad

Prior to Wisconsin’s newly formed Department of Forestry setting up their headquarters on Trout Lake in 1912, numerous lumber companies had been logging the region for decades. Yawkey-Bissell Lumber Company had a logging camp on North Trout Lake and operated a rail line that would ultimately be linked to Boulder Junction in 1913. The Yawkey-Bissell logging camp and railroad provided important logistical support for the fledgling Department of Forestry.Yawkey-Bissell operated a classic Northwoods second phase or railroad logging operation until 1912. The old logging camp, railroad and cutover land soon became part of Wisconsin’s Forest Reserves and ultimately the Northern Highland American Legion Forest.No real remnants of the Yawkey-Bissell logging camp remain, but the site of the camp is the current parking lot for North Trout Lake boat landing and the campground entrance.

6. Stevenson Farmstead

Arthur Stevenson's farm, along what is now Stevenson Creek, is one of the most complete and visible ruins of a farmstead in the Northern Highland American Legion Forest. The struggle of the Stevenson's buying a logging camp and attempting to farm the cutover is a typical Northwoods story from the early 20th century. Stevenson was unique in his attempt to grow cranberries, which has ultimately proven to be among the best crops to produce in Wisconsin's Northwoods. Sadly, the building was dismantled and sold as their farming venture failed. The chimney has been an iconic feature along Stevenson Creek and helped guide generations of canoeists on the journey between Trout and Pallett lakes.PLEASE USE THE ALLTRALS MAP LINKED AT THE BOTTOM OF THIS CLIO ENTRY TO NAVIGATE THE ROUTE TO THE STEVENSON FARMSTEAD. THE GOOGLE MAP ROUTE IS LONGER AND LESS SCENIC.It is illegal to dig, metal dectect or take artifacts on public lands without a permit from the DNR Archaeologist and State Archaeologist. Stevenson Farmstead is a cultural site. Observing, taking photos and sharing stories around the this exciting destination are encouraged.

7. Civilian Conservation Corps at Trout Lake Forestry Headquarters

Trout Lake Headquarters for Wisconsin Forestry began with big goals in 1911. Wisconsin conservation employees were often stretched thin, with challenges like fire prevention and suppression, replanting the recent cutover, and maintaining the property of the Wisconsin Forest Reserve. In 1933, this changed with the deployment of Franklin D. Roosevelt’s “tree army,” formally known as the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC). Trout Lake Headquarters had the CCC Crystal Lake Camp (on White Sand Lake) and CCC Star Lake Camp dedicated to helping to protect and improve what will become the Northern Highland American Legion Forest. The fruits of this collaboration between Wisconsin State Foresters, U.S. Army and federal government are still visible today across the Northwoods.

8. The Mercer Railroad Depot

Railroad lines reach the UP and Northern Wisconsin in the 1870s. Lumber and mining companies used them to move and ship their products as well as supply their operations. The first rail lines connected lumber and mining centers to larger cities and ports. Smaller railroad lines were built into the woods to staging areas where the raw unprocessed timber could then be loaded up and taken to mills.The original railroad in Mercer served the lumber interests in the area. Moving lumber as previously mentioned was its main purpose. The railroad also supplied the lumber company and other private interests with commodities needed for operating businesses and settling homesteads.

9. Manitowish River Ice Road

Along the river a mile below the town of Manitowish marks a massive logging landing. During the winter, sleds moved white pine across a massive swamp to the northern bank of the Manitowish River. Logs were then unloaded and decked next to the Manitowish River to be rolled into the river in April. Rest Lake Dam provided the power for river drives by releasing its waters. Paddlers along the Manitowish River and hikers following Murray Landing Road will have no problem identifying the landing area for the ice road. Acres of dense buckthorn outline the decking area for the white pines. Along the river, buckthorn reaches off of the bank and threatens canoers and kayakers who venture too close to shore. Massive disruptions of soils from decking and driving logs created a perfect environment for invasive species like buckthorn.It is illegal to dig or take artifacts on public lands without a permit from the DNR Archaeologist and State Archaeologist. Manitowish River Ice Road and other cultural sites like 6 Pause Portage are even more protected because they are recorded on the Wisconsin Archaeological Site Inventory. Observing, taking photos and sharing stories around the logging ice road are encouraged.The ice road is mostly on public land and can be accessed by river or by Murray Landing Road.Those who wish to hike the Manitowish River Ice Road on a guided tour should check the events calendar at the North Lakeland Discovery Center (NLDC). A link for the NLDC events calendar is provided below. The hike needs to be in winter and is about two miles. Snowshoes and hiking poles are often needed to navigate the swampy areas, which will be frozen, just like the historic ice road.

10. Plunkett Farm

By Kay KransEarly on, it became a necessity for families to create subsistence farms in northern Wisconsin. The Plunketts were early pioneers and had a young family to raise. They needed food for the family, and supplies were not readily available without traveling a long way by horse and wagon. While Matt Plunkett worked in the lumber camps during the winter, his wife and children needed a store of food and wood to keep them safe.

11. River Drive Logging Camps

Two different river drive logging camps are located along the Camp Mercer Interpretive Trail. Logging camps are marked on the trail map as signs 21 and 25. The LaPorte logging camp is located at sign 21. The LaPortes were among the earliest pioneers and noted for their logging expertise. Louie LaPorte lived in the cabin after the logging job was completed in 1911. The logging camp located at number 25 has no sign because scholars are still debating the status of the camp. The camp located by number 25 is on a trail loop and very easy to identify. Sadly, some of the cabin structure and most of the blacksmith shop have been looted by modern treasure hunters. It is illegal to dig or take artifacts from public lands without a permit. Camp Mercer and other cultural sites like the logging camps are even more protected because they are recorded on the Wisconsin Archaeological Site Inventory. Observing, taking photos and sharing stories around the logging camps are encouraged.The logging camps are on public land and can be accessed by river or by the bike trail and the Manitowish River Access Road. Following the markers on the Camp Mercer Trail maps is the most efficient way to get to these sites.

12. Camp Mercer 660th Company S-79, a Civilian Conservation Corps Camp

Camp Mercer or 660th Company S-79 operated along the banks of the Manitowish River from 1933-1942. Camp Mercer utilized the rail depot at Manitowish, Wisconsin to logistically support the development and maintenance of the Civilian Conservation Corps camp one mile west of the Iron and Vilas county line. 660th Company stands out as a larger regional administrative CCC camp. Historically, some area residents confused the site of the North Lakeland Discovery Center as the site for CCC Company 660th. The Youth Conservation Camp, known as Statehouse Lake in Manitowish Waters, was created in 1962 as a separate state program, with a mission that paralleled that of the earlier CCC.A trail features 23 interpretive signs, and a 3.5 mile hike will guide visitors through Camp Mercer and other cultural sites. Check web links below for further details. Paper trail maps are available at the trailhead, bike trail bridge, and trail gate by the Highway 51 wayside.It is illegal to dig or take artifacts on public lands without a permit from the DNR Archaeologist and State Archaeologist. Camp Mercer and other cultural sites like logging camps are even more protected because they are recorded on the Wisconsin Archaeological Site Inventory. Observing, taking photos and sharing stories around Camp Mercer are encouraged.

13. Benson Lake's Logging Traditions

Benson Lake is located on the western most part of the Manitowish chain and flows into the Flambeau and Chippewa rivers. A mix of public and private land surrounds the 28-acre lake. The inlet of Manitowish River is wide, shallow and sandy due to repeated logging drives from over 100 years ago. Original survey notes from 1862 suggest that Benson and Rest lakes were logged during the Civil War. River drive logging remnants rise out of the 15-foot-deep lakebed and are still visible as deadheads. Just up the hill of Benson Lake's southern shore marks the termination of a railroad logging spur operated by the Lac du Flambeau Lumber Co. Red pines and hardwoods were moved to mills by numerous logging companies using that railroad spur.

14. Log Boom on Sturgeon Rapids

Just above Sturgeon Lake, the Manitowish River narrows into a shallow rapids that proved vexing to river drive loggers from the 1880s until about 1910. Each spring. the mighty force of the waters behind Rest Lake Dam were released to move white pine logs hundreds of miles to massive sawmills. After the ice melted in April, paddle boats rafted logs to just above Rest Lake Dam, and when the sluices on the dam were opened, millions of feet of fresh cut timbers were sent down stream. Unfortunately, the first mile of the Manitowish River below Rest Lake has several dogleg turns and rapids that frequently created troublesome jams. Ultimately, logging companies installed a log boom on Sturgeon Rapids to easily separate white pine logs before they jammed; otherwise, dynamite on a stick was the typical solution..This important site can be accessed by water or on state land to the north of the Manitowish River. The land to the south of Sturgeon Rapids is private, which should be respected by all travelers. The North Lakeland Discovery Center maintains a trail under a DNR Land Use Agreement that connects hikers, bikers, skiers and snowshoers to the high bank right above Sturgeon Rapids. In the winter, the water stays open and attracts eagles, swans and other wildlife. Evening hikers following the trail downstream can also enjoy the sunset.

15. Powell's Fern Lodge

Imagine operating a lakefront Northwoods resort on the Manitowish chain for $25 a year! Using the Wisconsin Conservation Commission's state lease program, Ethel Powell did just that for 28 years.While riding on our amazing bike trail or exploring along the Manitowish River hiking trail, be sure to take the time to discover Powell's Fern Lodge. Today, the site of Fern Lodge is a DNR campsite that overlooks Vance Lake with a nice view of Angler's Fine Food and Spirits and Dixie's Coffee House. The camp site is at the end of a spur trail, which is part of the North Lakeland Discovery Center's Manitowish River loop trail. For best results, use the AllTrails link below to navigate the bike and hiking trails. The beautiful river and lake views along the trail illustrate why Fern Lodge was a special Northwoods destination.

16. Vance Lake Logging Site

The river drive logging era challenged loggers to make large camps in remote areas to harvest the white pine timber of the Northwoods. There were equipment and animals for skidding logs that needed to be hauled to pineries. And there was a need to feed hungry lumber jacks. The Vance Lake logging site is atypical and seems to be a stand-alone building site dedicated to sheltering livestock. A large bermed area, mostly devoid of trees and barbwire, marks this cultural site. Berming was a practices loggers used to seal the outside foundation of a structure with two or more feet of dirt.Today, the Vance Lake logging site is on state forest land and can be accessed from North Lakeland Discovery Center’s Big River Trail Loop at interpretive sign 13 or the bike trail that follows the Manitowish River. It is illegal to dig, metal detect, take artifacts on public lands without a permit from the DNR Archaeologist and State Archaeologist. The Vance Lake logging site is a cultural site recorded in the Archeological Site Index and protected by state law. Observing, taking photos and sharing stories around this exciting destination are encouraged.The Vance Lake logging site is about 135 years old and visitors being good stewards will ensure others can enjoy this unique cultural destination for generations to come.

17. 1878 Army Corps Of Engineers Rest Lake Dam Site

Exploration of documents from a 1878 Army Corps of Engineers survey reveals that the Manitowish Waters chain of lakes was to be much larger! Today, the modern Rest Lake Dam raises water levels about eight feet above the above the original water level, but the Army Corps of Engineers had designed a dam for Rest Lake that would hold back 25 feet of water. Most residents and visitors are unaware of this plan and have a difficult time imagining lake levels being 17 feet higher than today. 19th Century river drive loggers required dams to facilitate driving white pine logs down stream each spring. The Rest Lake dam site on what is today the outlet of Vance Lake was considered to be among the best dam sites on the Chippewa River watershed. Ultimately, a different dam site was selected just up stream, which held back a maximum of 16 feet of water and required much less labor and materials.

18. Rest Lake Ranger Station

The Rest Lake Ranger Cabin and Fire Tower were one of the four original outposts created by the Wisconsin Department of Forestry in 1912 to stop the vicious forest fires that plagued the Northwoods.Like spokes in a wheel extending from the Trout Lake Headquarters, new ranger stations could spot fires from 55-foot towers and report back to Trout Lake on new phone lines where Trout Lake rangers triangulated a fire’s location and coordinated fire responses. Rangers also utilized specialized firefighting tools and portable phones cached throughout the forest reserve to resupply and get fire updates from Trout Lake. Ranger stations also had bunk houses to maintain a corps of men for fire suppression, fire watch and building telephone lines, roads and fire lanes. Remote patrol cabins and auxiliary fire watch towers were later built to improve coverage and response time during fire season. Over time, new ranger facilities improved forestry employees’ response to critical needs within the forest reserve.

19. Statehouse Youth Conservation Corps Camp

The 1960s was a decade of the Environmental Movement, and Gaylord Nelson was a champion of environmental activism in Wisconsin as well as the nation. He was the founder of Earth Day. The Wisconsin Youth Conservation Corps was created through his inspiration and guidance as governor of Wisconsin from 1959-1963 and U.S senator from our state from 1963-1981. The YCC was modeled after the Civilian Conservation Corps legacy. The first Youth Conservation Corps camp in Wisconsin and the nation was created in Manitowish Waters, Wisconsin at Statehouse Lake in 1962. High school students aged 16-18 recommended by their principals were invited to apply for summer camp. Written by Kay Krans

20. Mississippi River Logging Camp and Rest Lake Dam

The most defining feature in the community of Manitowish Waters is the Rest Lake Dam. Discover the origins of the Rest Lake Dam and the large river drive lumber camp that was located at the inlet to Vance (formerly Dam) Lake. In 1902, the sprawling lumber camp was the site of the largest river drive ever conducted on the Chippewa River. Imagine 150 "River Pigs," drinking to celebrate this historic event before ushering millions of board feet of logs to Chippewa Falls. From the Army Corps of Engineers' surveys of 1878 until today, the location and operation of the dam has been debated. For over 130 years, dams between Vance Lake and Rest Lake have created one of the finest Northwoods impoundments for both early logging and long-term recreation.

21. Riley's Hoist

During the cutover of Wisconsin's Northwoods, both river drive and and railroad hoists brought millions of board feet of lumber to market each year. Along the Manitowish chain of lakes, loggers used steamboats to move rafts of brailed logs to Riley's Hoist. The lakes became much larger as water was raised by as much as 16 feet to facilitate steamboat operations up creeks and into bays to retrieve logs decked along the shorelines. Riley occupied the old Mississippi River Logging Camp at Rest Lake Dam to house his lumnerment and conduct operations.Today, Riley's Hoist is on state forest land and can be accessed from Serbin Park by following the shoreline west. Private property marks the end of the Riley Hoist area and should not be entered. It is illegal to dig, metal detect, or take artifacts on public lands without a permit from the DNR Archaeologist and State Archaeologist. Riley's Hoist is a cultural site recorded in the Archeological Site Index and protected by state law. Observing, taking photos and sharing stories around this exciting destination are encouraged.When visiting the site, do not contribute to the bank erosion by walking down to the water or climbing the hill. Just stay on the extra wide railroad grade and observe. Riley's Hoist is about 120 years old and visitors being good stewards will ensure others can enjoy this unique cultural destination for generations to come.

This Tour is a Driving or Biking Tour.

Northwoods Forest History Experience Heritage Tour

Created by Jim Bokern on March 15th 2024, 4:09:04 pm.

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Please get out and explore the amazing Northwoods forest heritage. The Northwoods Forest History Experience has created this Clio tour to empower residents and visitors to drive, walk, bike or paddle themselves to historic sites. The number of geolocated destinations will continue to grow, so check-in for new opportunities! The North Lakeland Discovery Discover Center and Manitowish Waters Historical Society believe: The forests of Wisconsin’s Northwoods are magical, productive, abundant yet finite. From ancient times to today, the traditions and practices of those who have lived, worked and governed in the Northwoods make our forests what they are today. Understanding the historical uses of forest resources connects us to the land and to the legacy of those who came before us. By preserving, sharing and showcasing these stories, images and artifacts, and by directing visitors to actual historical sites in the forest, we become better informed stewards for future generations

Entries on This Tour

Northwoods Forest History Experience Heritage Tour

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