Explore Trails, History & Trailside Treasures in Washburn County
If you’ve ever found yourself riding an ATV through the beautiful Northwoods and wondering about a unique building or scenic landmark along the trail, Washburn County has just the thing for you. Home to Wisconsin’s only ATV Scenic Tour, this one-of-a-kind experience combines over 100 miles of trail riding with nearly 40 points of interest scattered across the county. It’s the perfect blend of outdoor adventure, natural beauty, and local history.
As you ride through the vast network of Washburn County’s ATV and UTV trails, you’ll come across a variety of scenic tour stops—each with a story to tell. Some are tucked away and easy to miss, like the hand-crafted limestone archway just off Trail 35. This hidden gem, designated as Scenic Tour Stop #30, requires a short climb down from the old railroad grade, but stepping through the arch feels like traveling back in time.
Other stops highlight significant moments in Washburn County’s past. On Trail 7, Scenic Tour Stop #10 marks the site of one of the largest forest fires in Wisconsin history, which occurred in 1980. Today, the area is a peaceful forest, but signs along the trail tell the powerful story of its rebirth.
The tour also features a few photo-worthy roadside attractions that showcase the fun side of WashCo. In Shell Lake, you’ll find the Two-Tailed Walleye statue—a bold and quirky tribute to the area’s rich fishing culture. It’s located at Scenic Tour Stop #31 and makes for a great family photo. And if you’re riding the Tuscobia State Trail, be sure to stop in Birchwood at Scenic Tour Stop #35, home to the famous Giant Bluegill statue. Celebrating the town’s title as the “Bluegill Capital of Wisconsin,” this towering fish is both cheerful and memorable.
What makes the Washburn County trail system even more appealing is how connected it is. These scenic tour stops are part of a broader Northwest Wisconsin ATV trail network, which links into the Wild Rivers and Tuscobia State Trails. Most of the trail system runs through county forest land, with ample parking, trail-side lodging, and local dining options that make planning your ATV vacation a breeze.
So whether you're a seasoned ATV enthusiast or just looking for a unique way to explore the outdoors, the Washburn County ATV Scenic Tour offers an experience like no other. It’s history, scenery, and adventure—rolled into one unforgettable ride.
Ready to hit the trails? Order your free ATV/UTV trail map, scenic tour brochure, and ATV-friendly lodging information. Your next Northwoods adventure is waiting!
