Manitowish Waters

Discover Manitowish Waters in Northwestern Vilas County—your four-season vacation destination! Nestled in the Northern Highland-American Legion State Forest, the township features the famous Manitowish Waters chain of 10 connected lakes totaling 4,265 acres and part of the gently flowing 44-mile Manitowish River, which offers outstanding canoeing and kayaking. A great place for a swim is Little Star Beach on Little Star Lake.

Manitowish Waters is home to the historic Little Bohemia, famous for the 1934 shootout between John Dillinger and the FBI. The North Lakeland Discovery Center environmental education facility provides year-round diverse programs and activities for adults, families and children.

The community is known for its abundant outdoor recreation opportunities. Mountain bikers and hikers should be sure to ride the Manitowish Waters Trail and the North Lakeland Discovery Center Trail, which also offers cross-country skiing.

Hikers and nature lovers should head to the Powell Trail, which offers a number of trail loops and abundant wildlife. During the winter, cross-country skiers should check out the North Lakeland School Nature/Cross-country Ski Trail System, which offers 10 miles of looping trails.

Nearly 600 acres of cranberry marshes exist in Manitowish Waters—ask about the weekly marsh tour! Accommodations, restaurants, quaint shops and other conveniences will complete your visit to Manitowish Waters. Learn more about Manitowish Waters.