Wisconsin is known as the "Badger State." The state's northern regions have plenty of woods and fields for badgers to burrow in places like the 1.5 million-acre Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest. Poplar and ash burn in the wood stoves of log cabins, keeping hunters warm and ready for backwoods whitetail deer, and bear hunts. Wisconsin is known to harbor some of the biggest bucks in the country, making it part of the fall routine to go "up north" and enjoy its fabulous woods in pursuit of that trophy.
Lake Superior's white-crested waves roll into the Apostle Islands National Lake Shore, while kayakers attempt to paddle out into its cold waters. Keeping the kayak perpendicular to the waves is key as you crash and cut through successfully, not giving too much mass of your kayak for the waves to hit. After making it through the initial breakers and scouting the 21 islands in front of you, it’s time to choose what your day’s adventure will be. Pictured rocks line the north side of the islands, some carved out deep enough to become sea caves waiting to be explored. Multiple islands are waiting for campers who want a rustic night cooking on giant slabs of rock, and laying back in hopes of seeing the greens and reds of northern lights dance through the sky. A highlight of Wisconsin’s natural beauty, the Apostle Islands Lakeshore can be explored by backpacking and boating as well.
Large dairy farms in "America's Dairyland" roll through hills and fields along Lake Michigan's shore and west throughout the rest of the state. Wisconsin is the nation's 2nd leading milk and cheese producer. Cheese curds and "squeaky cheese," named for the sound it makes when you first bite into it, are popular snacks in supermarkets and small dairies. Mozzarella is the most-produced cheese in the state followed by the popular Wisconsin Cheddar.
Central Wisconsin is dotted by little farm towns like North Freedom and Baraboo. The Ice Age Trail stretching 1,200 miles back-and-forth through Wisconsin is a natural attraction displaying Wisconsin’s beauty. For backpackers, snowshoers and campers, the trail provides scenic hikes through northern hardwoods and evergreen forest. The obvious presence and evidence of glacial movement carving the lands can be seen in the rocks and ledge along the path. The trail winds through High Cliff State Park and ascends over Devils Lake in Devils Lake State Park, traversing through boulder fields and bringing beautiful scenic views.
Find your favorite forests and fields in the great state of Wisconsin.
