In Waupaca County, the water landscape ranges from a connected chain of lakes to numerous paddling opportunities throughout the region. The Waupaca Chain O’ Lakes comprises 22 interconnected lakes with crystal-clear spring water. The county offers paddling opportunities on 240 lakes and 114 rivers and streams.
Water Landscapes and Trails
All but four of the Chain O’ Lakes are subject to no-wake regulations, making them well suited to paddling. Recommended access points to the main area of the lake chain include Taylor Lake Boat Landing and Grandview Road Canoe Access. When planning your time on the water, you can keep both a specific orientation to the main area and the county’s wider selection of waterways in mind.
At Hartman Creek State Park, lakeside scenery meets wooded terrain: the park is located on the Chain O’ Lakes. The section of the Ice Age Trail there passes through wooded, hilly terrain; access to the trail is within the park. The historic Hellestad House, a log cabin, is also located in the park. This brings together a clearly defined hiking section and a historic building in the same state park, without implying a particular route between them.
Homes and Historical Insights
In Iola, different stories of architecture and use can be traced through specific dates. The Northern Depot was built in 1894. The Iola Historical Society’s 1901 Firehouse is an authentically constructed replica that was dedicated in 2007.
In Waupaca, the Hutchinson House was built in 1854. It is a well-preserved example of New England-style architecture. The Hutchinson House Museum takes visitors inside the Victorian home; the museum is open seasonally, and tours are available by appointment. Plan your visit with the seasonal opening hours in mind, and arrange a tour in advance.
The King Cottage showcases the history of the Chain O’ Lakes and the Wisconsin Veterans Home in King. At the Heritage Historical Village / Railroad Museum, guided tours take visitors through six historic buildings that were moved to the village for preservation. The buildings are furnished with original or historically appropriate period furnishings. Comparing these places and exhibits offers different perspectives: architecture and domestic life at the Hutchinson House, local history in Iola, and topics related to the lakes and the Veterans Home at the King Cottage.
Activities and Events
The Iola Winter Sports Club offers cross-country skiing. The Iola Car Show has a very different focus: it is a three-day event held annually in July. The event lists 2,500 show vehicles and 4,000 swap meet spaces; its annual scale may vary. A sporting activity and a clearly timed event offer different reasons to travel to Waupaca County. When planning, check the event dates for your intended travel year.
Discover more destinations: Waupaca, Clintonville, Weyauwega, Scandinavia, Manawa, Burnett, Grant County, Marinette County.
Return to the main travel overview: Wisconsin.
