Things to do in Hayward Wisconsin: What the Locals Actually Love

You’re driving north, the pines start getting thicker, and suddenly there’s a giant fiberglass fish staring you down. That’s Hayward. Honestly, if you haven’t seen the four-and-a-half-story musky at the National Fresh Water Fishing Hall of Fame, you haven't really arrived. It’s weird, it’s iconic, and yes, you can stand in its mouth for a photo.

Hayward isn’t just some sleepy Northwoods town, though. It's a place where world-class athletes and people who just want a good butter burger coexist. Whether you’re here for the absolute chaos of the Lumberjack World Championships or just to hide from your emails, there are a ton of things to do in Hayward Wisconsin that most people overlook because they’re too busy looking for a parking spot on Main Street.

The Big Hits You Can’t Skip

Let's talk about the Lumberjacks. It sounds like a tourist trap, but it’s actually legitimate. These athletes are insane. They’re logrolling, speed climbing, and chopping through wood faster than you can blink. If you miss the World Championships in July, you can still catch Scheer’s Lumberjack Show. It’s basically the same vibe but with more jokes and slightly fewer world records on the line.

Then there’s the water.

The Chippewa Flowage is massive. Over 15,000 acres of water. If you want to catch a record-breaking Musky, this is the place, but locals know it’s also just great for finding a quiet bay and floating. You’ve got the Namekagon River too. It’s part of the St. Croix National Scenic Riverway. Rent a tube or a kayak from Jack’s and just let the current take you. It’s the closest thing to a natural "lazy river" you’ll ever find.

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Hidden Gems and Weird Local Spots

The Moccasin Bar. Just go.

It’s famous for taxidermy, which sounds normal for Wisconsin until you see the dioramas. There’s a group of squirrels playing poker. A bear cub with a shotgun. It’s bizarre and wonderful.

Sweets and Shopping

You have to stop at Tremblay’s Sweet Shop. The smell hits you before you even open the door. They make fudge right there, and the peanut brittle is basically a food group in Sawyer County.

If you want something that isn't a t-shirt with a fish on it, head to Nordic Northwoods. They have actual Scandinavian decor and gifts that don't feel like "souvenirs."

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The Silent Sports Scene

People think Hayward is only for motors and fishing, but the Birkie Trail is legendary. In the winter, the American Birkebeiner (February 18-22, 2026) brings in thousands of cross-country skiers from across the globe. But in the summer? Those trails are open for hiking and mountain biking.

The CAMBA (Chequamegon Area Mountain Bike Association) trails are some of the best in the Midwest. We’re talking over 300 miles of marked trails. If you aren't a pro, don't sweat it; there are plenty of easy loops.

Eating Like a Local

Forget the chains.

• Angry Minnow Brew Pub: It’s in an old brick building from 1889. Get the River Pig Pale Ale and whatever the daily special is.
• Coop’s Pizza: It’s a classic. There’s a giant fish tank inside that keeps the kids occupied while you wait for a thin-crust pie.
• The Ranch Supper Club: You’re in Wisconsin. You need a Brandy Old Fashioned (sweet, usually) and a Friday Night Fish Fry. This place delivers on the old-school Northwoods atmosphere.

2026 Event Calendar

If you're planning for 2026, mark these down:

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1. Musky Festival: June 26-28. Street dances, car shows, and a massive parade. It's the town's biggest summer bash.
2. Honor the Earth Pow Wow: Usually in July. It's put on by the Lac Courte Oreilles Band of Ojibwe and is one of the largest in North America. The dancing and history are incredible.
3. Chequamegon Fat Tire Festival: September. It’s basically the Super Bowl of mountain biking.

A Few Practical Tips

Parking on Main Street in July is a nightmare. Park a block or two over and just walk. Also, if you’re heading out on the Flowage, bring a map. It’s easy to get turned around because all the islands start looking the same after a few hours.

Honestly, the best thing to do is just slow down. Buy some bait, grab a coffee at Backroads Coffee, and watch the fog lift off the lake.

To make your trip easier, you should look into booking a guide if you’re serious about fishing—the "Big Chip" is tricky to navigate if you don't know the bars and structures. You might also want to download the CAMBA trail map app before you lose cell service in the woods.