The Best Outdoor Adventures in Birchwood, WI

Thu, 25 Jun 2026 13:12:59 GMT

Birchwood, Wisconsin is an outdoor recreation destination in every season. The area's mix of wooded trails, interconnected lakes, and extensive ATV routes allows visitors to enjoy hiking, fishing, paddling, boating, or exploring miles of scenic terrain. Below are a few of our favorite activities.

Hiking

Fr om peaceful forest walks to longer backcountry treks, Birchwood offers access to some of the most scenic hiking in Wisconsin.

Ice Age National Scenic Trail – Blue Hills Segment

The Blue Hills Segment of the Ice Age Trail passes near Birchwood and showcases the rugged terrain, forests, and glacial landscapes that make this part of Wisconsin unique. Hikers can choose shorter out-and-back adventures or tackle longer stretches that wind through rolling hills, hardwood forests, and wildlife habitat.

Ice Age National Scenic Trail – Hemlock Creek Segment

A favorite section of the Ice Age Trail , the Hemlock Creek Segment features boardwalks, wetlands, mature forests, and excellent wildlife viewing opportunities. Visitors often spot birds, beaver activity, and scenic wetland habitats while enjoying a quieter hiking experience.

Tuscobia State Trail

While best known as a multi-use recreation trail, the Tuscobia State Trail also provides opportunities for hiking through forests, wetlands, and scenic stretches of the Blue Hills region. The relatively gentle grade makes it accessible for hikers of varying experience levels.

Know Before You Go

Wear bright clothing during hunting seasons.
Bring plenty of water, sun protection, insect repellent, and snacks.
Wear sturdy hiking shoes.
Cell service may be limited in some areas.
Stay on designated trails and boardwalks.

Fishing

With hundreds of acres of fishable water nearby, Birchwood has earned a reputation as one of the best fishing spots in Wisconsin.

Big Chetac Lake

Known as Wisconsin's Bluegill Capital, Big Chetac Lake attracts anglers seeking bluegill, crappie, bass, northern pike, and walleye. The large lake offers a variety of fishing environments, from weed beds to deeper water conditions.

Birch Lake

Connected to Big Chetac, Birch Lake provides additional opportunities for anglers looking to target panfish, bass, northern pike, and walleye. Its calmer waters and scenic shoreline make it popular with families and casual anglers.

Red Cedar Lake

Part of the Red Cedar Chain, Red Cedar Lake offers deep-water fishing and diverse fish populations. Anglers can spend a full day exploring bays, points, and offshore structures while enjoying beautiful Northwoods scenery.

Know Before You Go

Wisconsin fishing licenses are required.
Review Wisconsin fishing regulations and catch limits.
Respect private property along shorelines.
Consider fishing during spring and fall for active fish.

Lakes

Birchwood's abundance of lakes provides endless opportunities for boating, swimming, paddling, wildlife viewing, and relaxing along the shoreline.

Long Lake

Long Lake is one of the largest and most popular Wisconsin lakes, known for boating, sailing, paddling, swimming, and scenic shoreline views. Its nearly 100 miles of shoreline and multiple public boat launches make it a favorite destination for visitors looking to spend a full day on the water. It also has the honor of being named the “Walleye Capital of Wisconsin.”

Spider Lake Wisconsin

The Spider Lake Chain offers a quieter, more wilderness-oriented experience with interconnected lakes, islands, and undeveloped shoreline. It's particularly popular for kayaking, canoeing, wildlife viewing, and exploring a less-crowded side of the Northwoods.

Doolittle Park

Doolittle Park is one of Birchwood's most popular gathering places for families looking to enjoy a day by the water. Located on the shores of Birch Lake, the park features a public swimming beach, picnic areas, a playground, and convenient lake access, making it a great spot for swimming, relaxing, or launching a day of boating and paddling adventures.

Know Before You Go

Always bring sun protection and plenty of water.
If swimming, be mindful of boats, kayaks, and others using the area around you.
Bring layered clothing as temperatures can change quickly.
Make sure to swim only in marked swimming zones.

ATV/UTV Trails

Birchwood is one of the best areas to access ATV trails in Wisconsin, with extensive trail systems that connect communities, forests, and scenic landscapes.

Tuscobia State Trail

The Tuscobia State Trail is the area's premier ATV and UTV route, offering dozens of miles of riding through forests, wetlands, and the scenic Blue Hills region. Riders can travel between communities while enjoying one of Wisconsin's most recognized motorized trail systems.

Wild Rivers State Trail

The Wild Rivers State Trail offers long-distance riding opportunities through forests, rivers, and wildlife habitat. The trail connects with other riding systems, making it a popular choice for extended adventures.

Birchwood Area ATV Trail Network

Local club-maintained routes connect riders to scenic forest roads, trail loops, and neighboring communities. These routes provide access to many of the area's restaurants, businesses, and recreation opportunities.

Know Before You Go

Ride responsibly, follow posted speed limits, and stay on marked trails.
Travel with a companion whenever possible.
Ensure your ATV or UTV is properly registered.
Wear a helmet and eye protection.
Carry water, a map/GPS, and emergency supplies.

Stay Close to the Adventure at Echo Bay Resort

After a day spent hiking forest trails, casting a line into a quiet lake, or exploring miles of ATV routes, come back to a peaceful cabin or your own RV to relax and recharge. Our lakefront resort in northern Wisconsin provides guests with quick trail access, pontoon and kayak rentals, and plenty of fishing opportunities.

Regardless of whether you bring your own RV or stay in one of our cozy cabins, you’re certain to have an amazing Northwoods experience.

Book your stay today!

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The Best Outdoor Adventures in Birchwood, WI

Hiking

Ice Age National Scenic Trail – Blue Hills Segment

Ice Age National Scenic Trail – Hemlock Creek Segment

Tuscobia State Trail

Know Before You Go

Fishing

Big Chetac Lake

Birch Lake

Red Cedar Lake

Know Before You Go

Lakes

Long Lake

Spider Lake Wisconsin

Doolittle Park

Know Before You Go

ATV/UTV Trails

Tuscobia State Trail

Wild Rivers State Trail

Birchwood Area ATV Trail Network

Know Before You Go

Stay Close to the Adventure at Echo Bay Resort