It’s the end of July and the weather couldn’t be better. The Coronavirus still has many activities on hold or pending such as whether or not there will be in-school classes this fall.

It is time to put all seriousness aside for now and concentrate on all the fun things to do in the area. Over the next few weeks, we will list recreational businesses in each town that both permanent residents and visitors can enjoy.  

We are starting this week with St. Germain. Next week we will feature Eagle River’s businesses. Grab the kids, your sunscreen, and head out to a few of these great destinations and have a ball.

St. Germain

Let’s start with the golfing opportunities featured throughout the area. There is the beautiful St. Germain Golf Club. This gorgeous course features 18 holes of challenging play. Even if you aren’t a talented player, driving the cart for those who play is delightful.

Stop at the snack shack, Mulligan’s Snack Shop, between hole 9 and 10 where you can recharge on a hot dog or other menu items.

Getting a little dry mouth? Watch for the girl on the golf cart who carries a great assortment of beverages to cool you off.

After an invigorating round, stop at the bar at the Whitetail Inn located on the premise and feast on top-notch menu items at the stunning restaurant. Full white pine logs create a beautiful Northwoods atmosphere, punctuated by taxidermy creations and local artistry. 

Located on the north side of Highway 70 on St. Germain’s west side. Visit their website and Facebook page for further details and business information. Or call 715-542-2614 to reserve a tee time or to ask questions.

Not up for a full 18 holes? Across the street from the Whitetail Inn is the 19th Hole Sports Bar and Grill that features the Par 3 9-hole course nestled among tall pines. The onsite restaurant boasts the same huge white pine log construction as Whitetail Inn and has a more casual theme but equally delicious fare.

A sports bar atmosphere is featured with a huge multi-television screen located at the bar. For the younger set, there are several games available on the second level.

Not up for nine holes either? Yup, there is even a mini-golf course for all ages. Don’t miss the ice cream shop, either!

For more details visit their website or their Facebook page for prices and hours as well. You may also call them at 715 542-4042. They are located on St. Germain’s west side on Highway 70, just west of Highway C.

It is still months away, but snowmobile season is year ‘round for some enthusiasts and the perfect place to learn about the sport’s history is at the Snowmobile Hall of Fame.

The museum is located at 8480 Highway 70 West on the westside of St Germain. The museum offers a wealth of snowmobile history for both recreational and competitive history. See authentic period iron, clothing, photos, and videos of the sport’s colorful past. It’s the perfect way to whet a snowmobiler’s appetite for the upcoming season.

Summer hours are Thursdays and Fridays at 10:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m. and Saturdays from 10:00 a.m. until 3:00 p.m. Go to their webpage or the Facebook site to learn about the extensive snowmobile topics showcased at the Hall of Fame! Call (715) 542-4463.

Getting close to nature is one of the greatest benefits found in this picturesque town of St. Germain and there are hiking trail options from which to select.  

Close to town is the AWASSA Preserve and Hiking Trail that is owned and maintained by the Town of St. Germain. It offers 230 acres and is open to the public for hiking, cross country skiing, and snowshoeing.

This is a family-friendly system and pets on leashes are welcome. Click here for a map of Nature’s wonderland.

Fern Ridge Trail is for leisurely hiking and is found on the northside of St. Germain. Here is a link for a map of the trails. This is open year ‘round.

The Shannon Lake Hiking Trails’ south side is located east of Four Corners Lane and north of Found Lake Rd. Here is the link for more information.

This Northern Highland American Legion trail is managed by the Wisconsin DNR with assistance from local volunteers. It is classified as a novice trail with one stretch classified as intermediate.

If you have any questions about these trail systems, contact the St. Germain Chamber of Commerce at 715-477-2205, on their website or their Facebook page. 

A first-class biking trail that has quickly gained popularity, the St. Germain Bike and Hike Trail is 12 miles long and connects to the Heart of Vilas County’s Bike Trail 50-mile system.

For a map and parking information, click here.

It wouldn’t be St Germain if we didn’t mention Elmer’s Fun Park. Bolstering the longevity at their location, Elmer’s continues to add more fun to the great lineup of great things to do.

Take the kids for an easy Trail Ride on one of their gentle horses. Afterward, a Bumper Boat ride is a great way to cool off on a hot day.

Elmer’s offers two different styles of Go-Cart Racing, Batting Cages, Bungee Trampolines, Bounce House, 18-hole Miniature Golf and a Rock Climb. Fees are priced separately for each activity.

To view hours, prices, and eligibility for each activity click here.  Elmer’s is open seven days a week, (no trail rides on Mondays) weather permitting, from 10:00 a.m. until 10:00 p.m.

There is also an ice cream shop with 32 flavors of ice cream and food items on the menu. Hours for the ice cream shop are the same as for the park.

Elmer’s Fun Park is located on the east edge of St. Germain in Highway 70. For more information and updates on hours during inclement weather, go to their Facebook page or call 715-479-7311.