Ashland County was established in 1860. It is the home of the Great Divide, where waters flow North to Lake Superior, and South to join the Mississippi. Ashland County has 64 lakes covering 11,000 acres, and more than 300 miles of spring-fed trout streams. The county includes the Apostle Islands and Madeline Island of Lake Superior. There are 177,732 acres of National Forest and the Chippewa and Flambeau rivers available for your recreational activities.

In the late 1800s, Ashland, Wi was one of Wisconsin's largest cities and a major Lake Superior port. But the end of the logging era and other economic changes took its toll. In the latter part of the 20th century Ashland was on the official list of depressed areas. But today, the city is undergoing a renaissance of sorts. The restoration of the grand old Chequamegon Hotel - pictured here - is among the revitalizing changes occurring.

Ice-out is a highly anticipated event as the smelt run commences on Superior and humans, as well as game fish, catch and gorge on the silvery little fish. By the time the inland waters open for fishing, post-spawn walleyes are feeding heavily, as are northern pike. Bass and panfish are moving shallow in preparation for their late spring spawning run and fishing can be fast and furious. Inland streams such as the Namakagon and White turn into meccas for fly fishermen chasing native brown trout.

Four flags have flown over this area: Spanish, French, English and American. Eight different Indian nations have lived on the Bay. Later settlers included European explorers, missionaries and fur traders. They were followed by the Yankees who platted and developed the lands, the railroaders, shippers, loggers, entrepreneurs and settlers. Experience the magic of the area by touring the countryside, small towns and cities. Visit the multitude of galleries and shops and develop a pure appreciation for the scenic beauty and natural talent in the area. Enjoy the relaxing beauty of our sandy beaches, browse through gift shops, picnic, bike, swim or re-discover our past at our local museums.