WELCOME TO HAYWARD, WISCONSIN

EXPLORE HAYWARD, WISCONSIN

Visit Hayward Area Chamber of Commerce

Hayward, Wisconsin, is a gem of the Midwest, offering an unbeatable mix of outdoor adventure, vibrant events, and small-town charm. Whether you’re looking to fish in pristine waters, bike through breathtaking trails, or take part in world-class festivals, Hayward has something to offer year-round.

Outdoor Adventure Awaits

  • Lakes & Water Sports: Enjoy fishing, kayaking, and boating in the crystal-clear lakes.

  • Trails Galore: Ride snowmobiles, ATVs, or explore scenic hiking and biking paths.

  • Golfing: Challenge yourself on diverse golf courses catering to all skill levels.

Signature Events

  • Musky Festival: Celebrate the region’s fishing heritage.

  • Chequamegon Fat Tire Festival: A must for mountain biking enthusiasts.

  • American Birkebeiner: Experience North America’s biggest cross-country ski race.

  • Lumberjack World Championships: Witness top athletes compete in thrilling lumberjack events.

  • Honor the Earth Pow Wow: Immerse yourself in Native American culture.

Check out the Online Calendar of Events to plan your visit and experience the excitement of Hayward!

About the Area

Nestled in the heart of Wisconsin, the Hayward area offers crystal-clear lakes perfect for water sports and fishing, along with the stunning Namekagon River, often referred to as Wisconsin’s Moving National Park. With miles of trails for snowmobiling, ATV rides, cross-country skiing, hiking, and both road and off-road biking, this destination is alive with outdoor activities all year long. Golfers will also find a range of unique courses, catering to players of every skill level, leaving lasting memories.

The Hayward area boasts the sprawling 858,400-acre Chequamegon National Forest and the historic fishing waters of the Hayward Lakes Area. Events like North America’s largest Honor the Earth Powwow, the annual Musky Festival, the Chequamegon Mountain Bike Festival, the world-renowned American Birkebeiner cross-country ski race, and the iconic Lumberjack World Championships® make it a year-round hub of excitement and culture.

For those seeking a shopping adventure, Hayward’s vibrant retail scene is sure to please. Explore one-of-a-kind boutiques and specialty stores like Art Beat of Hayward, Hidden Bay Graphics, Outdoor Ventures, Nordic Northwoods, Lynne Marie’s Candies, Lures of the North, New Moon Ski & Bike Shop, and many more. Larger stores like Northern Lakes Cooperative, Marketplace Foods, L&M Fleet Supply, Glik’s, and Walmart Supercenter provide even more variety.

Food lovers won’t want to miss the region’s famous “Friday Night Fish Fry” served at local restaurants each week. For the fishing enthusiast, a visit to the National Fresh Water Fishing Hall of Fame and Museum is a must, where the towering 143-foot musky stands as a monument to the area’s rich fishing history.

Whether you’re lucky enough to call the Northwoods your home, a second home, or you’re planning your first, second, or twentieth visit, we hope you find joy in the natural beauty and vibrant community of the Hayward area!

THE NELSON LAKE RESORT ASSOCIATION INVITES YOU

Start planning your next vacation to the Hayward, Wisconsin region, and stay with us on Nelson Lake.

Plan Your Wisconsin Vacation at Nelson Lake

Discover everything Nelson Lake has to offer. Rich in history, Hayward, Wisconsin, is a charming northwoods community with a wealth of things to do. Enjoy the small-town feel with the conveniences of a full-service community. Relax at the lake, immerse yourself within the outdoors, or soak in the beauty of Wisconsin’s northwoods whatever your activity is.

LODGING

With several resort and campground listings to explore, you are sure to find something to fit your needs.

FISHING

Excellent multi-species fishing is available on Nelson Lake, featuring northern pike, walleye, and bass.

FAMILY FUN

Enjoy relaxing and family fun with our lakeside views, prime fishing spots, amenities, and local attractions.

ABOUT HAYWARD, WI

Learn more about Hayward, Wisconsin, and all that Sawyer County has to offer!

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