The Minocqua area consists of some of the most beautiful communities in North America, supporting a variety of outdoor activities, excellent lodging, shopping and fine dining. The Minocqua–Arbor Vitae–Woodruff Area is only 6 hours from Chicago, 5 hours from Milwaukee and less than 4 hours from Madison—so you’re just a scenic drive away from the most fun and relaxing destination in the Midwest. Arbor Vitae is one of the older towns in Vilas County, having been established in the 1890s shortly after Vilas became a county in 1893. Arbor Vitae has approximately 3,153 year-round residents. Today Arbor Vitae is the center of a flourishing tourist industry. It is a town of approximately 61.5 square miles, consists of many beautiful lakes, and is the location of several activities throughout the year. Woodruff is a small, unique town of 38 square miles, several lakes and picturesque, rustic roads. This Oneida County town was established in 1888 and has approximately 1,982 year-round residents (1/00 census). It is believed the town of Woodruff was named for George Woodruff, owner of the Woodruff-Macguire Lumber Company. He often had freight labeled, “Ship to Woodruff at Muskonegan Creek, NorthWestern Terminal.” Thus, his name became associated with the site. Fish preservation received early attention, and the State Fish Hatchery was started in Woodruff in 1901. The Art Oehmcke State Fish Hatchery, Hwy. J, Woodruff, celebrated its 100th anniversary in June 2001.

You’ll find unique challenges at some of the finest and most picturesque golf courses in the state right here in the Minocqua – Arbor Vitae – Woodruff area. And, you can choose between 9 and 18 hole layouts, each varying in yardage, design, and difficulty with all offering unmatched Northwoods scenery. Generally, peak fall colors can be seen anywhere from the last two weeks of September to the first two weeks of October. Capture the breathtaking beauty of the bright reds, vivid yellows and warm oranges reflecting off the sparkling water or arching over rustic roads. Explore the scenic forest land and watch for native wildlife along the hundreds of miles of hiking and biking trails.

Minocqua Winter Park & Nordic Center is 75 km total length and is one of the top cross country ski facilities in the country. Terrain varies from flat to hilly, and there are some lighted trails, a Ski shop, food and rentals. The Minocqua-Arbor Vitae-Woodruff area has two historical museums (three more exist within 20 miles), one library, five banks, one credit union, one local AM/FM radio station and one bi-weekly newspaper. The area has access to three network television broadcasts, public access and cable television.