Nestled within the serene “Roads to Relaxation” region of Washburn County, Wisconsin, Lake McKinley stands as a peaceful oasis beckoning visitors to unwind amidst the enchanting beauty of the Wisconsin Northwoods. Known alternately as Lake McKinley and McKinley Lake, it is most often simply revered as breathtaking. Covering 105 acres of pristine water and boasting over 2 miles of picturesque shoreline, this tranquil haven is dotted with a handful of charming lakefront homes and cabins yet remains a haven for the occasional bear or moose strolling along the water’s edge for a refreshing sip or a leisurely swim. Whether casting a line from the shore, a boat, or atop the icy surface during winter, Lake McKinley anglers are consistently rewarded with plentiful catches of largemouth bass, northern pike, bluegill, panfish, and the occasional walleye. In the warmer spring and summer seasons, visitors revel in a myriad of water activities such as swimming, beach outings, boating, kayaking, canoeing, and water skiing against Lake McKinley’s natural splendor. As the cold descends and snow blankets the landscape, the lake transforms into a winter wonderland, inviting guests to partake in cross-country skiing and snowshoeing, with snowmobile trails cutting through the frosty surface. Curling up by a crackling fire with a steaming mug of hot chocolate while gazing out at the snowy scenery is a perfectly acceptable pastime for those seeking pure relaxation. Dubbed the “Crossroads of the North” due to its proximity to major highways, the nearby town of Spooner offers a convenient respite from Lake McKinley’s tranquility. Here, visitors can secure necessary supplies for their stay, savor local culinary delights in charming restaurants, enlist guide services, and rent equipment. The town buzzes with excitement each summer as the annual Pro Rodeo unfolds, showcasing thrilling events from bronco riding and bull riding to roping and barrel racing, all while the lively antics of rodeo clowns captivate audiences.
Explore the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources’ Spooner Fish Hatchery, the state’s largest hatchery producing more muskie fingerlings than anywhere else. In addition to the allure of McKinley Lake, Washburn County boasts an abundance of natural riches, with over 960 lakes encompassing 31,498 acres of water surface and 866 miles of shoreline. The Namekagon River, part of the St. Croix National Scenic Riverway, meanders through the county, offering a haven for canoe enthusiasts. Mostly untouched by development, the Namekagon River provides canoeists a glimpse of Wisconsin’s diverse wildlife amidst pristine surroundings, with various primitive campsites lining the riverbanks for those seeking an extended adventure through the unspoiled Northwoods sanctuary. Lake McKinley and Washburn County have solidified their status as premier destinations for recreation and retirement, enticing many former visitors to invest in real estate for vacation or future retirement plans. For those who still need to be ready to make such a substantial commitment, vacation rentals abound throughout the county, ranging from lakefront cabins and vacation homes to lodges, resorts, conference centers, bed and breakfast inns, motels, RV parks, and campgrounds. Whether you seek fishing, boating, hiking, wildlife viewing, snowmobiling, or any outdoor pursuits, the Northwoods of Wisconsin offers a rich tapestry of activities to suit every season. Whether you’re embarking on a family getaway, a fishing escapade, a romantic interlude, or a solitary retreat, Lake McKinley in the heart of the Northwoods promises to fulfill all your desires. Embracing its reputation as the “Roads to Relaxation,” Washburn County and the magnificent Northwoods stand ready to soothe and enchant your soul, leaving you rejuvenated and inspired by the wonders of nature.
