Looking for peaceful lakes, scenic paddling routes, and hidden Northwoods gems? These local favorites near Minocqua, Boulder Junction, and Woodruff offer some of the best kayaking and canoeing experiences in Northern Wisconsin. Grab your paddle and explore.
🌲 Little Bass Lake — Woodruff
This small, motor-free lake, just minutes from Minocqua, offers quiet solitude and excellent fishing. Access is via a short drive down a gravel road (Bass Lake Rd) off County J, leading to a small paved parking area. For a little extra adventure, take the short portage trail from Little Bass into Clear Lake.
🌿 Cunard Lake — Lake Tomahawk
A peaceful, lightly traveled lake about 20 minutes southeast of Minocqua. Electric motors are allowed, and a small DNR campground sits nearby. A narrow stream flows north toward Sweeney Lake — while it doesn't fully connect, exploring this winding waterway makes for a fun and memorable side adventure.
🍦 Frank Lake — Sayner
Tucked between Woodruff and Boulder Junction, Frank Lake is both motor-free and crowd-free. A small parking area leads to a short walk down a gravel path to the water. On your way out, stop by the Corner Store on Highway N for a well-earned after-paddle ice cream — a true local favorite.
🚣 Lost Canoe Lake — Boulder Junction
Just minutes from Boulder Junction, Lost Canoe Lake is one of three lakes in the Lost Canoe State Natural Area, along with Escanaba and Pallett Lakes. Portage trails connect all three, creating opportunities for longer paddling adventures. No motorboat access keeps the lake quiet and ideal for paddling, with a convenient canoe and kayak launch off Highway K.
💨 Day Lake — Boulder Junction
Located just off Highway 51, Day Lake is an electric-motor-only lake with multiple bays to explore. Its shape makes it especially paddler-friendly on windy days, offering natural protection from open water. Paddle-in campsites are available by reservation — perfect for a longer outing.
🏕️ Bittersweet Lakes State Natural Area — Woodruff
This unique cluster of four undeveloped lakes — Prong, Bittersweet, Smith, and Oberlin — is connected by portage trails, offering everything from quick outings to full-day adventures. Accessing Bittersweet Lake directly requires a high-clearance vehicle, but you can also park off Highway 70 and take a scenic portage trail into Prong Lake.
📖 Want to Explore More?
Many of these lakes, along with others throughout the region, are featured in Wisconsin's Wild Lakes by local author and naturalist John Bates. Pick up a copy at both Coontail locations — we'd love to help you plan your next paddle!
