The Wisconsin Northwoods is a magical family vacation destination that has been unaffected by time. Here, families can still enjoy life's simple pleasures: pristine wilderness, crystal clear lakes, roaring waterfalls, woodland wildlife and eagles soaring. It is a place for solitude and relaxation and, at the same time, one of cultural celebration and outdoor family fun. And whether you are traveling with grandma and grandpa, aunts, uncles, cousins or just the kids, a Northwoods vacation is all about family no matter how multigenerational your holiday may be.

Located in north central Wisconsin bordering Michigan's Upper Peninsula, the Northwoods encompasses Oneida, Price and Vilas counties and is roughly the size of Madrid and twice the size of the Caribbean island of Aruba. Yet with over 2 million acres (8093 sq. km) of public boreal forest, 100,000 acres (404 sq. km) of wilderness area and over 3200 lakes, streams and rivers this vast area is little more than the great outdoors.

In summer, June to August, relax on one of the many lakes. Hike, bike or horseback ride on one of the area's many trails. Canoe or kayak the backwaters. Camp at one of the forest or public campgrounds. And, of course, fish. Cast a line for musky, walleye, or bass. From December to February, the area trails are a winter sportsman's delight. Cross country ski, snowshoe, snowmobile and even dog sled on miles and miles of groomed and virgin track. Bird watching and wildlife viewing are spectacular at just about any time of the year.

But the Northwoods offers family travelers more than pristine wilderness and crystal clear lakes. It is a mosaic of sounds, flavors and experiences. Visit the Ojibwe village in Lac du Flambeau and discover more about North American's second largest Native American tribe. Stroll down Eagle River's main street and take in small town charm. Learn about the area's trapping and logging history at one of the many museums and cultural centers. Visit shops and art galleries in Boulder Junction. Or head to Minocqua for just plain family fun.