What to do this fall in Boulder Junction
August 2, 2024
Want to find fabulous fall color? Or explore a quiet Northwoods trail? There are lots of ways to enjoy a fall getaway to Boulder Junction in northern Wisconsin—here’s what to see and do on your next trip.
Take a ride to see outstanding fall color
Wisconsin’s Rustic Roads are specially designated scenic routes that travel through some of the most beautiful parts of the state. In Boulder Junction, Rustic Road 60—also known as County Highway K—runs from County Highway M south of downtown Boulder Junction east toward the community of Star Lake. The 12-mile route passes old logging camps, a sawmill and several scenic lakes under a canopy of beautiful fall color.
Other routes to explore: Ben Bendrick Drive along the eastern edge of Trout Lake; County Highway B toward Presque Isle (take County Highway M north of Boulder Junction and head west on B)
Enjoy a fall color stroll through the woods
A walk in the woods is a great way to spend a fall morning or afternoon, and Boulder Junction is home to lots of scenic spots that are ideal for walkers and hikers. Here’s a look at some trails to explore this fall:
- Star Lake Nature Trail: This short trail loops around a peninsula in scenic Star Lake and is part of the Northern Highland-American Legion State Forest
- North Trout Lake Nature Trail: Another short route, this 1-mile loop offers stunning views of North Trout Lake
- Escanaba and Pallette Lake Trails: Those looking for a longer hike can try this somewhat hilly route just outside Boulder Junction that offers loops up to 8 miles long.
Discover more hiking trails in Boulder Junction.
Cast for musky amid the fall colors
Fall is the perfect time to go fishing in Boulder Junction’s lakes—the waterways aren’t as busy and fish are feeding ahead of the winter, so they’re more eager to go after your bait. While you can catch all sorts of different fish in Boulder Junction, fall is an especially good time to track down the Northwoods’ most famous fish: the mighty musky. If you’re going after one of these trophy catches, here are a few good tips:
- Use large jerkbaits (10 inches or more) or live suckers
- Use the “figure eight” method near the boat if you’ve got a musky following your lure
- Consider a trip with one of Boulder Junction’s experienced fishing guides—they know how to find the fish
Learn more about fishing in Boulder Junction here.
Find fun events
Boulder Junction’s event calendar is filled with fun, family-friendly events all year long, but the big celebration in fall is the Colorama Arts & Crafts Fair, which has been highlighting the work of dozens of local and regional artisans for more than 30 years. The event, which is held at the Boulder Junction Community Center on Park Street (County Highway M), features vendors at booths inside and outside the community center, as well as live music, children’s activities, and food and craft beer.
See Boulder Junction’s event calendar here. Learn about Boulder Junction’s annual events here.
Find a place to stay
Looking for a quiet, cozy getaway to northern Wisconsin? Consider a fall trip to Boulder Junction—the trails, lakes, shops, and restaurants are not as busy, so you have plenty of time and space to relax amid the stunning Northwoods scenery. Plus, Boulder Junction is home to dozens of great places to stay, from campsites and cabins to lodges and resorts.