Manitowish Waters is situated on US Hwy 51 in the Wisconsin Northwoods. Most families traveling to the area will make their way by car. From Chicago, take I90 west to Madison than US51 to Manitowish Waters. From Minneapolis, take I94 east to Eau Claire, Hwy 29 to Wausau, and US51 to Manitowish Waters. Trans North Aviation Ltd provides commuter service between Eagle River and Chicago's Palwaukee Airport four times a week and Minocqua 's Lakeland Airport and Chicago's Palwaukee Airport twice weekly. Midwest Airlines provides daily service between Rhinelander and Milwaukee and Northwest Airlines offers daily service between Rhinelander and Minneapolis. The Manitowish Waters Airports services private and charter planes.

While families flying into Rhinelander's Oneida County Airport or any of the other area regional airports should consider renting a car, area trails and waterways provide an excellent alternative to the automobile. Hiking, biking, cross-country skiing and snowshoeing offer families an opportunity to explore the area at a relaxed pace. Canoe routes provide an alternative means of adventure; area lakes and the slow-flowing Manitowish River are ideal for kayak and canoe trips with kids. And while the car may not be the most adventurous way to get around, a slow drive through the area in autumn may be the best way to observe Colorama, the changing of the leaves.

The weather in the Wisconsin Northwoods affects more than the layers of clothes required when heading outdoors. Weather can affect how the fish are biting as well as the condition of local trails. And while family fun is to be had no matter what time of year, the amount of time you spend outdoors will depend on what Mother Nature has in store. Summer (June - August) is the peak fishing season and best time to enjoy area rivers and lakes. Colorama, the local term for the changing of the leaves, begins in late August and ends in mid-October. Winter sports from cross-country skiing to snowmobiling are optimal from January through March.