by Casey Marion

It’s that time of year when pumpkin spice lattes seem to almost magically appear in hand, and chunky sweaters find their way out from the back of the closet. If you’re anything like me, the moment the calendar flips to Sept. 1, you’re dusting off Halloween decorations and dreaming of pumpkin patch visits. Perhaps digging out those nostalgic 1990s rom-coms or immersing yourself in DIY decor is how you celebrate. Or maybe you prefer snacking on kettle corn while glued to the slasher on your television screen. No, don’t split up! Or maybe, like me, you wish to experience all this time of year has to offer. Diving headfirst into the season seems to be the best way to enjoy it.  No matter what you’re popping into the DVD player (you can pry my Blu-ray from my cold, dead hands, Netflix!), there’s just something undeniably comforting about wrapping up in a warm blanket, watching the colors start to change outside, and curling up with a good book. 

As a self-proclaimed autumnal literature enthusiast, I’ve spent the last few years gathering all the best reads for the season. Whether you love cozy, low-stakes, small-town romances à la Gilmore Girls, heartwarming historical fiction, or bone-chilling horror, this list has something for you. After all, autumn reading doesn’t have to mean terrifying thrillers that will have you double-checking the locks on your doors. It can be slow, thought-provoking historical fiction, sweet romances with just enough spice to have you pulling at your cable knit sweater and asking, “Is it hot in here?”, or anything in between. There’s really no wrong way to spend a crisp autumn afternoon with a book.

From debut authors just getting their start to novels in the process of being turned into blockbuster movies, every single one of these books holds a special place in my heart. Some are cozy, some are creepy, and some may have you questioning why you decided to read them alone at night. There are books for those looking to get lost in a charming little town, books for those craving something mysterious, and books for anyone who wants to spend the season completely immersed in the fantasy of another world.

So, if you’re browsing for your next five-star read, trying to get through your TBR (to-be-read list), or simply searching for something that feels like the literary equivalent of a crisp autumn afternoon, I hope you find something here. Grab your favorite sweater, make yourself a warm PSL (pumpkin spice latte), and settle in. There are plenty of stories waiting to make their way onto your autumn reading list.

Incidents Around the House by Josh Malerman

From bestselling author of Bird Box, Josh Malerman’s Incidents Around the House is a chilling horror story told through the eyes of 8-year-old Bela, a girl who values her family above everything: Daddo, Mommy, Grandma Ruth, and Other Mommy. Other Mommy is different. She looks like Bela’s mother and sounds like her too, but there’s something wrong about her presence. Every day, she asks Bela the question: “Can I go inside your heart?” What begins as a strange, friendly question soon turns horrifying as Other Mommy becomes impatient. Reckless, violent, and bolder, she needs an answer. Bela must cling to the ties that bind family together before it’s too late.

Emily Wilde’s Encyclopedia of Faeries by Heather Fawcett

Emily Wilde is NOT good with people. Books? Sure. Her dog, Shadow? Of course. But not people. A highly educated professor at Cambridge, Emily’s research of all things Faerie has led her to a small northern town called Hrafnsvik. It is there that she gets a feel for the savory locals, their culture, and runs into none other than her longstanding academic rival, Wendell Bambleby. Wendell has a habit of throwing off her research and getting in her way as she searches for an elusive group of faeries. This low-stakes fantasy is the perfect autumnal escape for readers looking for something magical, charming, and cozy.

The Very Secret Society of Irregular Witches by Sangu Mandanna

Mika Moon is one of the last witches left in Britain. She’s gotten this far by knowing how to responsibly use her magic and how to keep her head down — mostly. Mika has a secret social media account she uses to “pretend” she’s a witch. That changes when she receives a mysterious letter asking her to teach three young witches at Nowhere House. Reluctantly, Mika goes and quickly becomes enamored with the students and staff, including the handsome house librarian, Jamie.

The First Time I Saw Him by Laura Dave

Half a decade ago, Heather’s husband, Owen, disappeared. Since then, she’s taken her stepdaughter and moved far away from the hurt, focusing on healing. But then Owen shows up when she least expects him, and danger follows closely behind, threatening everything she’s built.

Bat Eater and Other Names for Cora Zeng by Kylie Lee Baker

After witnessing her sister’s brutal murder, Cora thinks she’s experienced the worst this life has to offer. That is, until deceased bats begin showing up at her job. Cora is haunted by the last thing the murderer said to her before fleeing the scene: “Bat Eater.”  

Too Old for This by Samantha Downing

When retired serial killer Lottie Jones answers her front door, the last thing she expects to see is an investigative journalist. Suddenly, she’s being asked about crimes committed decades ago. To Lottie, there’s only one logical next step to ensure she keeps her freedom: come out of retirement.

Final Girls by Riley Sager 

Quincy belongs to a club no one wants a part of. She’s a final girl. Alongside Lisa, the sole survivor of a sorority massacre, and Sam, who escaped a notorious serial killer while working the night shift at a local inn, the three are the only ones left alive to tell their stories. It’s been 10 years since Quinn went camping with her friends and returned completely alone. She’s spent the past decade healing, starting a baking blog, and meeting her soon-to-be fiance, Jeff. But when Lisa is found dead, and Sam shows up on Quinn’s door, things change. Someone is hunting the final girls — and won’t stop until there’s no one left.

The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern 

The Night Circus is one of those reads that sticks with you long after you turn the final page. Magicians Celia and Marco belong to the Night Circus, a magical cirque show that appears with no warning, for one night only. Their entire lives, Celia and Marco have been groomed by their mentors to fight in a duel. Unbeknownst to them, only one can survive. As tensions rise and the night of the big show looms closer, Celia and Marco begin to fall for each other. They must navigate their newfound feelings while preparing for the fight of their lives. Written in beautiful prose, The Night Circus is an autumn must-read.

The Ex Hex by Erin Sterling 

This sweet and sassy paranormal romance is the perfect way to kick off the spooky season. After a bad breakup, Vivienne, a witch from Graves Glen, Georgia, curses her evil ex-boyfriend, certain no real harm could come to him. Nine years later, Rhys returns to Graves Glen, and strange things begin happening. The town is under attack by unexplainable entities. It’s up to Vivi and Rhys to break the curse before the town is completely overtaken. 

If We Were Villains by M.L. Rio

Oliver Marks is released after 10 years in prison for a crime he may or may not have committed. A decade ago, he was among thespians. When a gruesome murder occurs, Oliver and his fellow actors must put on the performance of a lifetime.

The Academy by Elin Hilderbrand and Shelby Cunningham

Today is move-in day at Tiffin Academy, a well-known, party-friendly boarding school. But soon, a popular new app begins blowing up phones at Tiffin Academy, revealing secrets about everyone from staff to students. No one is safe from its encompassing reach. 

This Story Might Save Your Life by Tiffany Crum 

Benny and Joy host a comedy survival podcast with millions of listeners. But when Joy and her husband go missing, all eyes turn to Benny. Through Joy’s unpublished memoir, secrets emerge that could finally reveal exactly what really happened the night she disappeared.

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Anatomy: A Love Story by Dana Schwartz

This is the perfect historical fiction romance for anyone who doesn’t mind a little body horror. The novel follows Hazel, a woman determined to become a surgeon in the early 1800s. After getting kicked out of a lecture because she’s a woman, Hazel makes a deal with her professor: If she can pass the medical examination, she can enroll. That’s where Jack comes in. Jack is a “resurrection man” who spends his days digging up graves. Normally, his job is easy. Except now, strangers are lurking around the cemetery, and people in Edinburgh are disappearing. It’s up to Hazel and Jack to uncover the mysteries around them before it’s too late.

Never Lie by Freida McFadden 

Largely regarded as Freida McFadden’s spookiest work, Never Lie is a great book to add to your autumn reading list. The novel follows young newlyweds Tricia and Ethan as they begin searching for their forever home. When a nasty storm strands them at a particularly creepy house, they scour the estate for something to cure their boredom until the blizzard passes. They discover the house belonged to Dr. Hale, a psychologist who went missing years prior. They stumble upon a room filled with audio cassette tapes of Dr. Hale’s sessions. One by one, Tricia plays them, slowly learning what exactly happened to Dr. Hale — uncovering secrets she wishes she’d never heard.

Bunny by Mona Awad

Samantha can’t stand the girls in her writing class. They call each other Bunny and look like clones. But when Samantha receives an invitation to come over, she can’t help but feel curious. Monstrous things happen at the Bunnies’ house, changing Samantha’s reality forever.

Nothing More to Tell by Holly Jackson

Brynn returns home after four years following her teacher’s murder. Now an intern at a true-crime show, she’s determined to find what police couldn’t: who did it? With her ex-best friend as the key witness, Brynn uncovers secrets that could change everything forever.

Accidentally Amy by Lynn Painter

In an act she isn’t proud of, Isabella takes a latte that isn’t hers. Holding a cup labeled “Amy,” she runs into a kind, gorgeous man. On her first day at her dream job, she realizes that the handsome stranger is her new boss. 

The Secret History by Donna Tartt 

Credited with being the inspiration for the dark academia aesthetic, Donna Tartt’s The Secret History is a great read for the colder months. At an elite liberal arts college in New England, a handful of misfits form a group around one of the university’s more eccentric professors. In this small society, new norms are created, and in time, new morals. Told in beautiful prose, this novel expertly intertwines elements of a thriller with philosophy and psychology. Fans of Kill Your Darlings and Dead Poets Society will find much to love in this heartbreakingly thought-provoking novel. This is a story that will stay with you long after the final page.

Wrong Place, Wrong Time by Gillian McAllister 

In the early hours of Halloween, Jen watches her teenage son commit a gruesome murder. Horrified, she’s helpless to do anything but watch as her son is arrested and dragged to the police station. Exhausted, she falls asleep, only to wake up and discover that the murder hasn’t happened yet. It’s Halloween again, and she has the chance to prevent this horrible atrocity from occurring. As the days go on, Jen continues waking up in the past — first days, then months, then years before the murder. Deep in the past, something is set up so her son becomes a killer — and Jen must find it and put an end to it.

If It Makes You Happy by Julie Olivia

Set in the late 1990s, this autumnal romance brings nostalgia akin to classic rom-coms. Michelle is licking her wounds after a nasty divorce when she takes over her family’s bed & breakfast in Copper Run. Enter Cliff, a handsome, single dad next door who seems to embody the town itself. Michelle warms to Cliff as the days pass and the weather gets colder. What started as neighbors blossoms into friendship. But it’s the other feelings that might end up hurting her.

The September House by Carissa Orlando

Every September, Margaret and Hal’s house becomes haunted. After four years, Hal seemingly can’t take it anymore and vanishes. Their daughter, Katherine, travels to search for her father, unaware of horrors lurking in the house. As the search continues, the haunting becomes worse.

Slasher Summer by E.L. Chen

A group of friends reunite in their rural hometown, famously known as the backdrop to one of Hollywood’s greatest slasher films. However, fiction and reality begin to blur as they realize they’re being hunted and fall into the notorious roles found in slasher films.  

Yesteryear by Caro Claire Burke

Tradwife influencer Natalie spends her days promoting her lifestyle to millions of followers, despite the army of help behind the camera. However, she wakes up one day living the reality she’s spent years masquerading in, only to discover life isn’t what it seems.

The Sun Down Motel by Simone St. James

I stumbled on The Sun Down Motel while shopping around for my next read, and it did not disappoint. Vivienne Delaney was only 20 years old when she disappeared. She had been working the night shift at the Sun Down Motel, just as she’d done every day for the past few months. Viv had been looking into a recent string of murders and presumably got too close to the truth. Thirty-five years later, her niece Carly takes it upon herself to find Viv — even when that means working at the same motel, staying in the same apartment, and looking into the same strange events that happened long ago.

Fall Into Temptation by Lucy Score

Anyone who has been scanning the Great Reads section for a while knows that I love anything by Lucy Score. Fall Into Temptation, the second installment in the Blue Moon series, is no exception. Gianna Decker, a newbie to the small town of Blue Moon, wasn’t looking for love. That is, until she spotted handsome bachelor Beckett Pierce, who just so happens to be her landlord, the town mayor, and her father’s girlfriend’s favorite son. With all these connections, it’d be impossible to stay away from him, right? As if having him as her landlord wasn’t complicated enough, his chemistry makes staying away even harder.

The Haunting of Hill House by Shirley Jackson

This novel is a classic, and for a very good reason. Shirley Jackson takes readers through the horrors of Hill House in this paranormal gothic mystery. The Haunting of Hill House follows four protagonists, each seeking out the manor for different reasons. As they comb their way through Hill House, horrors are unleashed, and each must grapple with the sinister psychological evil lurking within. Atmospheric, unsettling, and deeply haunting, this is a classic that deserves its reputation.

The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue by V.E. Schwab

Addie LaRue has spent centuries being forgotten. In 1714, she struck a deal that allowed her to live forever. But immortality has a price: Everyone she meets forgets her. She lives alone, traveling the world, until she meets a man who remembers her name. 

Crave by Tracy Wolff

After her parents’ death, Grace moves to Alaska to attend Katmere Academy, run by her uncle. She soon realizes that monsters are walking among her — vampires, werewolves, and dragons posing as everyday humans. But surviving her new school may be harder than she ever imagined.

Home is Where the Bodies Are by Jeneva Rose 

When estranged siblings Beth, Nicole, and Michael reunite after their parents’ passing, they begin sorting through the couple’s belongings. They discover an old VHS tape showing their father covered in blood while their mother helps him hide a body. Suddenly, everything they knew changes.

This article was originally published in the September 2026 issue of Appleton Monthly Magazine.

by Angela Halderson

For many women (and men), hair is more than just part of their appearance — it can be closely tied to confidence and identity. Thick, shiny, healthy hair often symbolizes vitality and wellness. When hair begins to thin after pregnancy or during periods of hormonal change, it can feel deeply personal and even unsettling.

Many women experience increased shedding after giving birth, while others notice thinning during perimenopause, menopause, or with conditions that affect hormone balance. The good news is that these changes can be supported by addressing nutrition, stress, and overall health.

After pregnancy, estrogen levels drop rapidly, causing many hair follicles to shift from the growth phase into the shedding phase. This condition, known as postpartum telogen effluvium, typically begins two to four months after delivery and often improves within six to 12 months. 

One of the most important nutrients for healthy hair is protein. Hair is made primarily of keratin, a structural protein, so consuming adequate protein is essential for growth and repair. Women who are breastfeeding have increased protein needs and should aim for approximately 1.1-1.3 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight each day. Including protein-rich foods such as eggs, Greek yogurt, cottage cheese, fish, poultry, beans, lentils, and tofu at each meal can help provide the building blocks your hair follicles need.

Several important vitamins and minerals also play a role in healthy hair growth. Iron, vitamin D, and zinc are among the nutrients most commonly associated with hair health. Iron deficiency is a frequent cause of excessive hair shedding, particularly after childbirth if blood loss was significant. Zinc supports normal hair follicle function, while vitamin D appears to play a role in the hair growth cycle. Lean beef, oysters, eggs, and salmon supply high-quality protein along with iron or zinc, while fatty fish like salmon also provide vitamin D. Plant-based options like lentils, beans, pumpkin seeds, and fortified foods can also contribute to healthy nutrient intake. Because excessive iron or zinc supplementation can be harmful, it’s best to work with your health care provider to determine whether testing or supplementation is appropriate.

Stress is another often-overlooked contributor to hair shedding. Physical stress from pregnancy and childbirth, emotional stress, poor sleep, illness, or significant life changes can all increase the number of hairs entering the shedding phase. Supporting your nervous system may be an important part of a comprehensive hair health plan. Ashwagandha, an adaptogenic herb traditionally used in Ayurvedic medicine, has been shown in several clinical studies to help reduce perceived stress and lower cortisol levels in some adults. While research has not demonstrated that ashwagandha directly stimulates hair growth, it may indirectly support healthier hair in individuals whose shedding is related to chronic stress. Ashwagandha is not appropriate for everyone, so always discuss herbal supplements with your healthcare provider before starting them.

Although hormonal hair changes can be frustrating, nourishing yourself with adequate protein, nutrient-rich foods, stress management, and patience can help support healthy hair as your body finds its balance again.

This article was originally published in the September 2026 issue of Appleton Monthly Magazine.

by Sarah Peterson

Adventure Awaits in Wisconsin’s Northwoods

Going “Up North” in Wisconsin is not only a tradition — it’s an adventure, a date with nature, and an escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Though there may be some debate as to how far north “Up North” truly is — geographically, Wisconsin is split in half along Highway 10, west of Stevens Point — my advice is to follow the scenery. As the breeze becomes pure, the forest thickens with towering spruce and pines, and monarchs flutter against a wide, deep blue sky, you will know you have reached the Northwoods.

Whether you’re looking to hit some trails, sleep under the stars, hook a fish, or just take a cool dip in one of the thousands of lakes, we have plenty of ideas for your itinerary. Let’s go Up North and explore some of the counties that offer the best in camping, lodging, recreation, dining, and entertainment.

Oneida County (Minocqua, Three Lakes, Rhinelander, Woodruff)

Welcome to Oneida County, the heart of the Northwoods. Discover a wealth of fun with various resorts, cabins, restaurants, and family attractions. This county is the area’s water playground, with more than 3,200 bodies of water near Minocqua and a 20-lake chain in Three Lakes that spans more than 7,000 acres of water and 106 miles of shoreline.  

Outdoor Escapes

Reserve a site at Clear Lake Campground in Woodruff. The campsites are located on the southwest corner of Clear Lake. With unbelievably crystal-clear waters, the lake boasts excellent boating and fishing, and the campground is complete with toilet buildings, showers, and clean drinking water. We also hear the chipmunks are friendly! Visit wisconsin.goingtocamp.com to make reservations.

Three Lakes Campground is a 49-acre campground right on Big Stone Lake, part of a 28-lake chain, complete with a sandy swimming beach, a boat launch, a playground, a golf course, and a marina. threelakescampground.com

Patricia Lake Campground is a top-rated destination in Minocqua with a family feel. There are many beautiful units to choose from, including RV rentals. Enjoy pickleball, fishing, swimming, kayak rentals, and campground events. patricialakecampground.com

Prime Lodging

For a dose of the Northwoods with the option of indoor plumbing, check out the cottages at Indian Shores Resort in Woodruff or a lodge room at the relaxing Holiday Acres Resort in Rhinelander.

The Waters of Minocqua is another great lodging choice featuring the largest waterpark in the Northwoods, complimentary for hotel guests.

indian-shores.com

holidayacres.com

thewatersofminocqua.com

Dining Hotspots

The Thirsty Whale is a lively dining experience located right on the water in Minocqua. They’ve got good food, cocktails, and games to play while you wait for your meal. thethirstywhaleofminocquawi.com

Ol’ Pine Isle is a hearty community-driven bar in Three Lakes with classic Wisconsin cocktails, beer-battered fish, and waterfront views. opistl.com  

Hoggie Doggies in Woodruff serves Chicago-style hot dogs and ice cream treats, including puppy cones for furry family members. hoggiedoggies.com

Exciting Excursions

Walk, or fly, up in the trees with Northwoods Zipline Adventures of Minocqua, where you can join a guided canopy tour or glide across a zipline. northwoodszipline.com

Visit Wildwood Wildlife Park, where you can see animals in and outside the exhibits. Get up close while deer and goats roam free, looking for a treat. wildwoodwildlifepark.com

While you’re in town, catch a free show with the Min-Aqua Bats, the longest-running amateur water ski show across the globe. They run all summer long on Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays. minaquabats.org 

Vilas County (Manitowish Waters, Eagle River, Boulder Junction, Lac du Flambeau)

If you’re itching to hit some trails, add Vilas County to your Up North bucket list.

Vilas County houses thousands of acres of land open to the public as well as almost 90 recreational trails that accommodate UTVs, ATVs, bikes, and hikers. Don’t forget to renew your fishing license before you go, because you can also find some of the best fishing in the country for smallmouth bass, walleye, and musky.

Outdoor Escapes

Hi-Pines Campground in Eagle River is popular with families, featuring 145 campsites, an Aqua Play Zone, a sandy beach, and lots of fun games to choose from. hipines.net

Camp Holiday Campground in Boulder Junction offers just about everything you could need, including rental campers, a game room, a playground, a sandy beach with a water trampoline and rowboats, and canoes and kayaks rentals. camp-holiday.com

Torch Lake Campground and RV Park in Conover offers a sweet spot for nature lovers with campsites just a short walk from the beach and front row for some good old Northwoods sunsets. Reserve ahead at vilascountyrec.com/torch-lake

Prime Lodging

Choose your cabin at Pitlik’s Sand Beach Resort, located just 9 miles southwest of Eagle River. There are so many nearby activities, including a classic Northwoods golf course and paved trails for biking and horseback riding. pitliksresort.com

Dillman’s Bay Resort offers an array of lodging options to fit your family’s needs. Located in Lac du Flambeau, this resort offers cabins, lake houses, townhouses, and motel rooms. dillmans.com

Those looking for a more home-away-from-home experience can rent a house with Hiller Vacation Homes. This small community of rentals sits in the quaint town of St. Germain, known well for its quality fishing. hillervacationhomes.com

Dining Hotspots

J.J.’s House of Dogs is a cute little diner with indoor and outdoor seating. As the name suggests, their menu offers a variety of dogs, burgers, pizza, and a bunch of yummy sides. houseofdogsdiner.com

It’s not just a grub stop; it’s a must-see exhibit in Manitowish Waters, complete with original bullet holes. Little Bohemia Lodge and Restaurant has a rich history featuring an FBI raid on the John Dillinger Gang. littlebohemialodge.com

Make a reservation for some fine dining at Clearview Supper Club’s nostalgic lodge overlooking Big St. Germain Lake. clearviewsupperclub.com

Exciting Excursions

Stop by Coontail Adventures or River’s Edge Outfitters to rent a bicycle that fits your style and download the Map It Vilas County App to choose from 61 different biking and hiking trails nearby. coontail.com, riversedgemw.com

Take the kids to spend an afternoon at Elmer’s Fun Park in Saint Germain for some go-karting, bumper boats, mini-golf, and batting cages. elmersfunpark.com  

Wildwood Outdoor Adventures offers fun self-guided canoe and kayak trips for active paddlers, as well as tube floating for the laid-back type. wildwoodoutdooradventures.com

Forest County (Crandon, Wabeno, Laona, Mole Lake)

“The Forest of Wisconsin” has over 680,000 acres of woodlands.

With much of the county accessible in some way, whether by road or water route, there are opportunities for great hiking, fishing, biking, and hunting. Plus, an honorable mention for Crandon, the home of Crandon International Raceway.

Outdoor Escapes

Welcome to Hollywood — Holly Wood Hill Camping and RV in Crandon, that is! A family-owned campground with an onsite camp store, live music, food trucks, and an outdoor bar. hollywoodhillcampgroundrv.com

Settle in for the night with Richardson Lake Campground in Wabeno, with campsites surrounded by the beautiful greenery of the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest. Bring your poles as Richardson Lake is known for bass, northern pike, and panfish. fs.usda.gov/r09/chequamegon-nicolet/recreation

Prime Lodging

Bunk up at Mole Lake Casino & Lodge and end your long day of outdoor adventure with a little bit of luck on the slots. molelakecasino.com  

Camp 20 Cabins offers a cozy, rustic retreat with several styles to choose from. Each cabin is fully handcrafted with wood right off the Camp 20 Farm in Laona. camp20cabins.com

Wolf River Rendezvous in Crandon offers RV sites, cottages, an on-site bar, an event hall, and direct access to the Wolf River.
wolfriverrendezvous.com 

Dining Hotspots

Veeser’s Wild Rose Pub & Grill, just a few minutes from Richardson Lake Campground, sits on Robert’s Lake and serves up warm comfort food, homemade soups, and delectable desserts. 

Follow Veeser’s Wild Rose on Facebook.

Palubicki’s Eats & Treats is a fun, old-fashioned drive-in restaurant serving burgers, sides, and ice cream. The prices are pretty old-fashioned, too. They can’t be beat! facebook.com/palubickiseatsntreats 

Friday nights in Wisconsin mean fish frys and old-fashioned cocktails. Water’s Edge Lodge has all you need for that authentic Up North dining experience. The restaurant sits right on Lake Lucerne and sometimes offers fun water shows. 

Follow Water’s Edge Lodge on Facebook.

Exciting Excursions

Crandon International Raceway has provided three generations of fans with dirt-covered entertainment. The track welcomes more than 60,000 fans and is host to the world’s largest off-road races. More than 2,300 grass camping sites are offered in Camp Crandon. Check out the 57th Polaris Crandon World Championship from Sept. 4-6. crandonoffroad.com

Hop aboard the Lumberjack Steam Train in Laona for a scenic ride along the rails to the Museum of Logging History. See the original Cracker Barrel store, eat at the Choo-Choo Café, and then head back to the station. lumberjacksteamtrain.com 

Rent an ATV or UTV from Northwoods PowerSports Adventures and hit the Forest County Public ATV Trail located on old logging roads. northwoodsatv-utv.com

Langlade County (Antigo, White Lake, Langlade)

Besides being known for brats and cheese, Langlade County is also known as the “County of Trails” as it manages more than 130,000 acres of forest for public recreation. Many travel here for quality ATV riding and snowmobiling. In the summer, one of the primary pastimes is heading to nearby White Lake for rafting on the Wolf River.

Outdoor Escapes

Jack Lake Campground, just north of Antigo, offers numerous options for single-unit campsites or larger group sites. Campground perks include a large beach, sand volleyball courts, grills near the lake, and a nearby disc golf course. langladeforestryandparks.com 

Boulder Lake Campground rests on the shores of Boulder Lake near White Lake. It’s the largest campground in the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest area and features clear water and a clean beach. Sites fill up fast — visit recreation.gov to reserve.

Prime Lodging

Enjoy all Post Lake has to offer by renting a cozy cabin at Sunset View Lakeside Resort & Tavern. Amenities include a private beach area, sand volleyball, a lakeside tavern, and yard games. sunsetviewpostlake.com 

Langlade Inn of White Lake is a riverside inn, small and simple, but right in the midst of the Northwoods. N4530 Highway 55, White Lake

Dining Hotspots

Sit down for a hearty meal at the only supper club in Antigo, Swartzendruber’s, known for its prime rib, seafood, and Friday night fish fry. Located on the south side of town, just west of Hwy 45. swartzendrubers.com

Timber Haven Bar and Grill, formerly known as the Polar Country Club, lives on as a local legend. Stop in for food and drink specials every day of the week. W6962 Highway 64, Polar

Exciting Excursions

Check out Shotgun Eddy near White Lake for whitewater rafting on the Wolf River. Various trip lengths and difficulty levels are available. shotguneddy.com

Float down the Wolf River on an inflatable tube for a relaxing two- to three-hour adventure — perfect for enjoying the scenery while sharing laughs. Wolf River Tubing Co. in White Lake provides rentals for the full trip. wolfrivertubingco.com

Fishing in the Northwoods

There’s nothing quite like it. Northern Wisconsin is home to more than 2,500 lakes across six counties and thousands more streams, providing an unparalleled environment of serenity and natural beauty. The only stress you will find here is choosing where to cast your line. Whether you take to the lake in a boat, make the trek on a kayak, or decide to fish inland, the options are virtually endless.

Visit dnr.wisconsin.gov/topic/Fishing to learn more about seasons, species, and dates.

Fishing Seasons

Wisconsin has many fishing seasons that determine which species you can target, so it’s important to identify which seasons you are traveling in.

General Inland Trout (inland lakes and ponds): May 2, 2026 (5 a.m.) – Oct. 15, 2026

Musky Harvest (statewide inland): May 2, 2026 – Dec. 31, 2026

Northern Pike: May 2, 2026 – March 7, 2027

Largemouth Bass Northern Zone Harvest: May 2, 2026 – March 7, 2027

Smallmouth Bass Northern Zone Harvest: June 20, 2026 – March 7, 2027

Fly Fishing for Trout

Northern Wisconsin is overflowing with rivers and streams that are ideal for fishing. Brook trout streams are especially common in the Northwoods. The Wolf River, which begins near Forest County and runs south for 240 miles to Winnebago County, also has an abundance of brook, brown, and rainbow trout.

National Forest lakes in the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest are said to provide spectacular fishing opportunities for anglers looking to hook trout, among other species. Visit dnr.wisconsin.gov/topic/Fishing/trout/streammaps for current maps of more than 2,900 trout streams by county.

Musky Capital of the World

Boulder Junction is the self-proclaimed Musky Capital of the World. After a long battle, the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office issued the registered trademark in 1971 for “Boulder Junction, The Musky Capital of the World^®.” The justification is clear; there are 194 lakes within just 9 miles of the town that the DNR has classified as Class-A musky lakes.  

Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a first-time visitor, Wisconsin’s Northwoods offers something for everyone — adventure, relaxation, good food, and a healthy connection with nature. From tranquil lakes and lush forests to charming towns with local traditions, the spirit of “Up North” lives in the memories you make there. Pack your bags, follow the call of the pines, and experience the wonder of Wisconsin’s Northwoods for yourself.

This article was originally published in the August 2026 issue of Appleton Monthly Magazine.