Minocqua & Hazelhurst

Located in the northwest corner of Oneida County, Minocqua obtained township status on March 13, 1889. The town’s name was derived from the Ojibwe word “Ninocqua,” meaning “noon-day rest.” The island is believed to have been the area Native Americans camped during their travels. The history of Minocqua is also rich in logging lore. When early settlers arrived in Wisconsin, virgin forests with mammoth, hundred-year-old trees covered nearly 90 percent of the state. Minocqua is a flourishing tourist destination, with a variety of accommodations – from rustic cabins to luxurious condominium suites, and campgrounds to bed and breakfasts. It features fine dining, unique shopping, attractions and historical museums, as well. It is also home to one of the largest concentrations of freshwater bodies in the world, providing endless outdoor recreational opportunities for four seasons of fun in the Northwoods. Minocqua has an approximate year-round population of 4,821 and is the largest township in the northern half of the county. Because its major industry is tourism, the population nearly quadruples during the summer months. The township consists of approximately 107,520 acres of land and contains approximately 45 lakes. (Minocqua.org) There are over 2,300 bodies of water in Minocqua, and the world’s largest penny can be found here! In Minocqua there are a lot of bars, restaurants, and coffee shops.

Hazelhurst, about 5 miles from Minocqua, also in Oneida County, is on the west shore of Lake Katherine, one of the most beautiful bodies of water in the lake region, which is tributary by means of a canal to the Big Tomahawk lake chain. These lakes furnish fine fishing and are favorite resorts for summer tourists and adventure seekers. Hazelhurst village owes its origin to the lumber industry as so many of the towns in the area do. The community is surrounded by lakes and woods and lies along the 18-mile Bearskin State Trail. The Bearskin State Trail takes its name from Bearskin Creek and runs through the heart of Hazelhurst. Described as “the quiet side of the Northwoods”, Hazlehurst is known for its spectacular beauty and outdoor scenery. Fun activities here include the Hodag Music Festival nearby, the plentiful water sports, snowmobiling, camping, hiking and charming restaurants! There are around 1,300 people who call Hazelhurst home.