Snowmobiling The Hayward Lakes: A Winter Adventure in Wisconsin’s Northwoods

Hayward Lakes
Snowmobilers celebrating together on the ice as the sun sets over a frozen lake.

The Hayward Lakes Area in northwest Wisconsin boasts over 600 miles of groomed snowmobile trails winding through forests, glacial lakes, and rivers. Sawyer County’s system is ideal for riders seeking space, scenery, and small-town charm, with plenty of fuel stops, restaurants, and cozy lodges ready to welcome visitors all winter.

These trails are maintained by dedicated local snowmobile club volunteers. A great starting point is the Hayward Lakes Visitors and Convention Bureau, which offers trail maps, winter lodging options, and planning resources. Accommodations range from full-service resorts to rustic cabins, many with direct trail access.

Staying along the scenic Chippewa Flowage puts riders within easy reach of classic Northwoods stops like Pat’s Landing, Deerfoot Lodge, Musky Tale, and Chippewa Pines, many hosting fun T-shirt or hat runs throughout the season.

Suggested Two-Day Itinerary:

Day 1: Begin on Trail 3, crossing the Chippewa Flowage and winding through forested routes to Highway K near Grindstone Lake. Stop at LCO Quick Stop for fuel, then follow the Grindstone Lake Trail along the east shoreline to Lac Courte Oreilles. Trail 3 continues the length of LCO, connecting to Corridor Trail 31 and the Tuscobia Trail (Corridor 10), passing villages like Couderay, Radisson, Ojibwa, and Winter. Turning north onto Trail 5 takes riders across the East Fork of the Chippewa River and into the Chequamegon National Forest, with a must-stop at Louie’s Landing near Moose Lake for a classic Northwoods meal.

Day 2: Head north through the Chequamegon Forest on Trail 3 toward Lost Land Lake, with a snack stop at Reel Livin’ Resort. Continue into Bayfield County via Corridor Trail 8 to Lake Namakagon, visiting Lakewoods Resort and Staudemeyer’s 4-Season Resort. Return southwest to Sawyer County on Trail 4, touring Nelson Lake and stopping at Park Island Resort and Revelle’s Resort.

Contact: Hayward Lakes Visitors and Convention Bureau | haywardlakes.com | 715-634-4801

Our Featured Sponsors