Beyond the ordinary experiences lie in and near Phillips, in Wisconsin’s Northwoods. Nestled amongst abundant forests and sparkling lakes, this up north destination offers plenty of ways to find peace in nature and outdoor adventures. Renowned for its trophy fishing in interconnected lakes and legendary musky havens, Price County caters to anglers of all skill levels. But beyond the thrill of the catch, this Northwoods paradise is an irresistible place to explore. From a bigger-than-life folksy concrete park, unparalleled outdoor attractions, peaceful escapes, and world-class fishing, Price County promises an unforgettable experience.
Fred Smith’s Wisconsin Concrete Park: A Folk Art Gem
Fred Smith’s Wisconsin Concrete Park is a one-of-a-kind folk art environment in Phillips, Wisconsin. The park is home to over 200 concrete sculptures created by Smith, a lumberjack and self-taught artist.
Smith began building the sculptures in 1948 after retiring as a lumberjack. He used wooden armatures wrapped in wire mesh to create the sculptures, which he then covered with hand-mixed cement and decorated with shards of broken glass in various colors and other objects that shimmered in the sun. The sculptures depict multiple subjects, including historical figures, animals, and mythical creatures. Some of the most famous sculptures include Paul Bunyan, the Lincolns, and Sacajawea.
The park fell into disrepair after Smith died in 1976, but the Kohler Foundation and the Friends of Fred Smith, Inc. eventually restored it. The park is now a respected tourist destination listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The Wisconsin Concrete Park is a unique and fascinating place to visit. It is a testament to the creativity and ingenuity of Fred Smith and a reminder of the importance of folk art.
Find out more from our experience: Why You Need To Visit The Fascinating Wisconsin Concrete Park
An easy trail through the Northwoods leads to the restored Round Lake Logging Dam
Step Back In Time At The Round Lake Logging Dam
The restored Round Lake Logging Dam is one of Wisconsin’s logging industry’s few remaining early artifacts. When the snow melted, the dam opened to release the lake’s water, allowing the logs to be driven down the river. Initially built in 1878, the dam sent harvested trees cut by lumberjacks from Round Lake to sawmills as far downstream as Eau Claire. The structure is the only existing dam like it in Wisconsin and is on the National Register of Historic Places.
Explore the dam’s history and surrounding forest by walking on the easy and relaxing one-half-mile gravel Round Lake Logging Dam Interpretive Trail. For a more extended nature hike, take the 9.3-mile Round Lake Trail through hardwoods and hemlocks. The dam is also a favorite spot for fishing and photography and a beautiful place to enjoy the outdoors.
The Round Lake Logging Dam is located thirty minutes east of Park Falls at N15296 Logging Dam Rd, Park Falls, WI 54552
The Smith Rapids Covered Bridge in the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest
Where Beauty Meets History: The Smith Rapids Covered Bridge
Another favorite Price County outdoor attraction is the Smith Rapids Covered Bridge. The bridge’s name comes from a nearby series of river rapids that powered a sawmill and gristmill. The Smith Rapids Recreation Area, on the south fork of the Flambeau River, is a well-liked spot for paddling and carry-in boat access, fishing, wildlife viewing, day use, and picnics. Camping and horse riding on the Smith Rapids Saddle Trail are also a big draw here.
The Smith Rapids Covered Bridge is a popular tourist destination often used as a backdrop for weddings and events. Photographers and artists come from afar to use the wooden rural bridge as their centerpiece. The bridge is near Park Falls in the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest on the Forest Road 148 segment of the 13-mile Rustic Road 105 loop.
If you are looking for a scenic place to visit in Wisconsin, the Smith Rapids Covered Bridge is an impressive option. The bridge is located in a beautiful setting and is a great place to enjoy the outdoors.
If you enjoy covered bridges, then don’t miss the small town: Experience The Best Small Town Charm In Winterset, Iowa
Reaching New Heights Atop Timms Hill, Wisconsin’s Crown
In the scenic Northwoods of Price County lies Timms Hill – the undisputed king of the state’s natural high points. At an elevation of 1,951 feet, it offers panoramic views of the forest and landscape.
Hike or drive to the summit and be greeted by a landscape of rolling forests stretching as far as the eye can see. A lookout tower perched atop the hill grants an even more dramatic perspective. On a clear day, witness the distant silhouette of Rib Mountain, a fellow geographic giant over 40 miles away. Imagine the world unfolding before you – a tapestry of rolling hills, sparkling lakes, and dense forests. Timms Hill isn’t just about the view. Hikers can explore miles of scenic trails teeming with diverse wildlife.
Grab your boots, pack a picnic lunch, and conquer Timms Hill. It’s where breathtaking views, refreshing air, and a touch of geographic pride await.
For some of the best Colorado Rocky Mountain views check out: An Epic Colorado Road Trip To Easily Conquer Loveland Pass
Touring the St. Croix Rods factory in Park Falls, Wisconsin
Hooked on Quality: St. Croix Rods in Park Falls, Wisconsin
In the heart of Wisconsin’s Northwoods, Park Falls is an unlikely home for a world-renowned fishing rod company – St. Croix Rods. For over 70 years, St. Croix Rods has been crafting premium and innovative fishing rods. St. Croix offers a diverse selection of rods for every fishing style, from delicate trout fishing to battling bruiser muskies.
Visiting Park Falls allows you to experience the St. Croix legacy firsthand. Their factory tours offer a glimpse into the craftsmanship behind their exceptional rods. Anyone can tour the world-class St. Croix Rod factory, which has an excellent fishing and bait store. Unfortunately, not too long ago, the factory stopped selling imperfect rods for ten and twenty dollars. We always made a mad dash to the back of the shop to see what great deals we could find.
When visiting Park Falls, stopping at St. Croix Rods is a fun experience, even if you don’t fish. The factory and store have been a favorite road trip stop for us for many years. Plus, if you go after hours, a bait vending machine sits outside next to the front door.
A 45.7-inch Elk Lake musky the Wisconsin DNR caught using a fyke net in Phillips.
Trophy Waters Await: Unforgettable Fishing Adventures Near Phillips, Wisconsin
For anglers seeking a freshwater paradise, Price County, Wisconsin, beckons with the promise of epic catches and unforgettable experiences. The wilderness surrounding sparkling lakes in this freshwater fishing destination caters to every angler’s dream. These Northwoods lakes boast a unique combination of abundant fish species, diverse water bodies, and stunning natural beauty, making it a dream destination for all skill levels. Price County offers endless possibilities, with over 98 lakes comprising 18,000 acres of water. Whether you’re a die-hard walleye fanatic, a musky maestro, or a panfish pro, Price County boasts an abundance of aquatic trophies.
Pack your gear and fishing license, and head to Wisconsin’s Northwoods. Experience the thrill of the fight, the serenity of nature, and the satisfaction of a successful catch. It’s where memories are made, stories are woven, and lifelong fishing passions are ignited.
Most people don’t know they can tour the world’s largest musky fish hatchery. Read about it here: Why You Need To Visit The Outstanding Spooner Fish Hatchery
Hidden Cove Resort In Phillips, Wisconsin
Where To Stay In Phillips For A Peaceful Northwoods Experience
Although the Phillips area has many choices for lodging, the Hidden Cove Resort and the Rock Garden Tavern Airbnb offer a traditional and one-of-a-kind Northwoods lodging experience.
Classic Wisconsin fishing cabins at the Hidden Cove Resort
Hidden Cove Resort In Phillips
On a recent trip to Phillips, we stayed at the Hidden Cove Resort, a classic up-north fishing lodge experience. As soon as we arrived, the resort brought back Kristi’s memories from family fishing vacations. Although the era of people vacationing up north has died down, the Phillips Chain of Lakes remains a popular fishing destination.
Hidden Cove Resort is a family-friendly resort in a private, wooded area on a chain of four lakes in Price County, Wisconsin. Located on the shore of Long Lake, the resort has five rustic cabins and the modern Lakehouse, which can sleep 8 to 12 people. Appropriately, cabin names are Fisherman’s Cove, Sportsman’s Lodge, Loon’s Nest, Logger, and Northand. Our cabin was the Sportsmen’s Lodge, a larger cabin with additional bedrooms downstairs. We loved walking around the resort and enjoying its serene lake scenery. Plenty of docks sit in a quiet cove where guests can swim, fish, and park their boats.
Groups will feel comfortable in the modern Lakehouse
A modern kitchen in the Lakehouse
As a bonus, Regina, the owner, knows the lakes well. She enjoys directing her guests to great fishing spots on the chain of lakes. Each Fall, Regina hosts the non-profit Wisconsin Veterans Fishing Camp free of charge for vets and guides at her resort.
The resort is also five minutes from downtown Phillips, which offers a variety of shops, restaurants, and attractions. Whether you are looking for a relaxing getaway or an active vacation, Hidden Cove Resort is the perfect place to experience the beauty of the Wisconsin Northwoods.
Rent the Rock Garden Tavern for your event and the Airbnb above it
Rock Garden Tavern Airbnb In Phillips
Stay in a historic apartment above the Rock Garden Tavern and next to Fred Smith’s Wisconsin Concrete Park. Along with renovating the Rock Garden Tavern, the Friends of Fred Smith decided to make the upstairs an Airbnb apartment. The charming two-bedroom vacation property overlooks Fred Smith’s Wisconsin Concrete Park and has a full kitchen, washer and dryer, an enchanting archway, WI-FI, and hardwood floors. The property has plenty of room for parking boats, snowmobiles, and ATV trailers. The apartment can accommodate up to five people and is open year-round. Additionally, guests can rent the Rock Garden Tavern for private events.
Final Thoughts
Price County offers more than just a chance to catch a boatload of fish—Kayak tranquil waters surrounded by forests and canoe through wetlands filled with wildlife. Explore miles of scenic hiking trails, breathing in the fresh Northwoods air. After a successful day on the water, unwind in cozy cabins or comfortable lodges, listen for the loon’s four main calls echoing over the water, and savor the peacefulness of nature. Unwind, make memories, and reconnect with nature in Price County, Wisconsin’s Northwoods paradise, a place where generations have connected with nature.
No Comments