Following the Wisconsin River North

Today Travalon and I drove north, following the Wisconsin River. We had seen all of it south of the Wisconsin River Flowage, which is just north of Stevens Point, so we started there and drove along the river, stopping at a couple of waysides and then at the dam just south of Lac Du Bay. This is the dam itself.

This is the view looking downriver from it.

Then we climbed a steep berm - it was nearly a vertical climb! - and from there we could look out over Lac Du Bay.

Here is an island in the lake.

I thought this sailboat on the shores of the lake was so pretty.

I really didn't want to climb back down the steep path, but we didn't have to, because there was a gradual path down, and alongside it we saw these flowers. I believe Hardingfele said they are called hawks' ears, and that they are invasive, but I thought they were so pretty.

The Wisconsin River flows through Wausau, which is right next to Rib Mountain State Park, so we stopped in and took a hike on the top of the mountain, amid the interesting rock formations.

Here is a shot Travalon took of the city as seen from the top of the mountain.

And here is the Wisconsin River as seen from the top of the mountain.

We stopped at a county park between Merrill and Tomahawk that is right on the Ice Age Trail. Here is a shot up the river from the park, and an island on the river.

We walked a little of the Ice Age Trail, and we saw some interesting flowers.

There was a little creek with a bridge over it on the trail, and the water in the creek was deep reddish brown.

Here are more pictures from along that section of the Ice Age Trail.

We stopped at Sara Park in Tomahawk and dipped our feet in the river.

Then we went to Rhinelander, which has one of the most beautiful courthouses in the state.

Rhinelander is known for a mythical beast called the Hodag.

We had a delicious dinner at the Rhinelander Pub, and out front was the Vincent van Goghdag.

Then we drove to Eagle River, where we are staying at this charming resort.

Here is a view from the side, showing the balcony outside our room. We are on the second floor.

The resort has equally charming cottages, which are pricier to stay in.

Here is a view of the river behind the resort. Notice the paddleboat - we are planning to use that tomorrow, since Mass up here isn't until 11.

After Mass we will go to the headwaters of the Wisconsin River. That is the final destination of our trip.

Famous Hat