The Cisco Chain of Lakes, a lesser-known gem in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, is a spectacular group of interconnected lakes that straddles the border between Michigan and Wisconsin. Located primarily in Gogebic County, Michigan, with some lakes shared with Vilas County, Wisconsin, this chain provides nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts a serene and picturesque escape.
The Cisco Chain of Lakes was originally not interconnected with navigable streams. To enable log floating, however, loggers built a dam at the Cisco Lake outflow to the Cisco Branch of the Ontonagon River in the 19th century. Victoria Dam, a permanent low dam, was constructed in 1931 to hold water for hydroelectric plants downstream. By raising the water levels by four to five feet, this dam made it possible to navigate the waterways between the lakes, turning the region into a haven for water sports enthusiasts. These days, the annual variation in the water level is barely six inches, making perfect summer boating conditions.
The Cisco Chain of Lakes is renowned for its water-based recreational opportunities. Thousand Island Lake, the largest and most developed, is popular among power boaters, water skiers, and other watersports enthusiasts. The linked lakes offer excellent fishing for prize species such as walleye, muskellunge, northern pike, largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, perch, rock bass, bluegill, and crappie. Fishing regulations and reciprocity between Michigan and Wisconsin should be checked before purchasing a license. Ice fishing is also popular, though some areas do not freeze solid due to underwater springs.
Boating is a major attraction, with most lakes having public boat launch sites. A marina on the south end of Big Lake rents boats, motors, and pontoons, provides indoor winter storage, and offers repairs and supplies.
The Cisco Chain of Lakes is a haven for wildlife, with abundant species including black bears, deer, coyotes, smaller mammals, waterfowl, eagles, and ospreys. Loons nest in the more remote areas, adding to the natural beauty and tranquility of the lakes. The surrounding forested lands help maintain a Northwoods wilderness atmosphere, with many lakes still having no development.
The area offers a range of accommodations, from simple cabins to elegant homes. Although no campgrounds are directly on the chain, nearby state parks like Lake Gogebic State Park and Bond Falls State Park provide camping facilities. The Sylvania Recreation Area, east of the Cisco Chain, includes a forest-controlled camping area with boat launches on three additional lakes. The nearby Sylvania Wilderness offers hiking, biking, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and primitive camping.
Community and Conservation Efforts
The Cisco Chain Riparian Owners Association, Inc. works to educate visitors and residents on the threats posed by invasive species and strives to maintain excellent water quality. The group is fundraising to purchase the Cisco Dam from Integrys Energy Group, with nearly $300,000 collected. This initiative aims to secure the dam’s future and ensure its maintenance.
An interesting day trip includes visiting Victoria Dam, the famous’ copper boulder’ discovery site, now housed in the National Museum in Washington, D.C. The area also features old mines and smelting facilities open to visitors. The nearby towns of Watersmeet, Michigan, and Land O’ Lakes, Wisconsin, provide snowmobile trails, maps, and recreational opportunities, along with inns, motels, guest cottages, resort cabins, and private rentals on the Cisco Chain of Lakes.