Hayward
With more than 50,000 acres of glacial lakes and rivers, Hayward Lakes has long been known as a classic lake, fishing and golf vacation destination. The town of Hayward itself is practically synonymous with the mighty musky, and the surrounding Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest contains over 2000 miles of streams (nearly 1400 miles classified as trout water) along with 324,000 acres of wetland.
Fun Facts:
Average Temps: Low 19 degrees, high 79 degrees F.
Total area: 32 square miles
Population: 3,000 +
We are drawn to bodies of water as much as any aquatically-inclined angler, but we weren’t sure at first about staying at a resort that hints at inclement weather. Luckily, the water at our No. 1 spot was a frozen blanket of ice that didn’t give the title a chance to prove true. ... See More
Hayward Spots to Watch
Stay Here
The staple of the Hayward Lakes area is the classic fishing and hunting lodge, which began as fish camps in early 1900s. Many resorts offer family-friendly lake getaways including boating and beaches. In Hayward and the surrounding area you can also find upscale bed and breakfasts and golf resorts.
Hayward Lodging
Play Here
Hayward turns its past - based on logging and fishing - into fun. The Chippewa Flowage, Wisconsin’s third-largest lake, is great for all-around water recreation. Three area lakes are designated "Quiet Lakes,” and thrive with walleye, bass, panfish and the signature musky. Golf is excellent here amid the rolling glacial terrain. And annual events center on the traditions of lumberjacks and the Scandinavian pursuit of cross country skiing.
Hayward Attractions
Dine Here
The dining in Hayward is decidedly American - beef, burgers, chicken and steak. The pub and lodge-style entertainment venues are common, and many reflect a “Northwoods” feel with a slight bit of whimsy (see: the world’s largest mounted musky).
Hayward Restaurants
How to Get Here
Hayward, Wisconsin lies conveniently at the junction of US Highway 63 and Highways 77 and 23, on the western tip of Hayward Lake. The Sawyer County Airport is in Hayward; the nearest major airport is Duluth International Airport in Duluth, Minnesota, about 65 miles to the northwest.
Getting Around
Hayward itself is very pedestrian-friendly, with a total area of only 3.2 square miles. You are never out of place on a mountain bike in Hayward; boating is highly recommended on the Chippewa Flowage (Ghost, Teal and Lost Land Lakes are non-motorized lakes for fishing only).
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