Rhinelander, Wisconsin

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A family vacation in Rhinelander Wisconsin is all about water. Float past forest and farmland on the Upper Wisconsin River. Canoe or kayak the more challenging Tomahawk River. Waterski or boat on 232 lakes. Enjoy birding with the kids at the Thunder Lake Wildlife Area. And if you fancy fishing, cast a line in rivers, lakes and streams. Even history buffs will find themselves focused on water. Together with tourism, logging and papermaking have most shaped the history of Rhinelander.

Getting there

Located on US 8, Rhinelander is 220 miles (354 km) from Minneapolis, 230 miles (370 km) from Milwaukee and 320 miles (515 km) from Chicago in the Wisconsin Northwoods. Midwest Airlines provides daily service between Rhinelander and Milwaukee and Northwest Airlines offers daily service between Rhinelander and Minneapolis. Trans North Aviation Ltd provides commuter service between Minocqua 's Lakeland Airport and Chicago's Palwaukee Airport twice weekly and Eagle River and Chicago's Palwaukee Airport four times a week.

Map It!
Google Maps
Airlines Servicing the Northwoods
Midwest Airlines
Northwest Airlines
Trans North Aviation

Getting around

While families flying into Rhinelander or any of the other area regional airports should consider renting a car in the Northwoods one need not be a slave to the automobile. Many top Wisconsin trails - biking, hiking and cross-country skiing - wind their way in and around Rhinelander. Yet there's not need to limit a family adventure to land based routes. Explore area rivers and lakes and set your course for a family kayak or canoe trip.

Rental Cars
CarRentals.com
Rhinelander Trails & Waterways
NorthwoodsWisconsin.com
Ice Age Park & Trail Foundation
Ucancanoe.net

When to travel

The weather in northern Wisconsin is if anything unpredictable. While fun family activities are to be had year-round, the weather from spring to fall is as likely to be cold and wet as it is sunny ad warm. And 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.

Weather Forecast & Climate History
Weather Underground
Outdoor Reports
Hodag Guide Service
Rhinelander Wisconsin Fishing

Things to keep in mind

The weather varies considerably, even in summer. Pack rain gear as well jackets and sweaters. If you plan to rent a boat or any other equipment that requires towing, make sure that your vehicle has the capacity to pull the desired load.