Turtle Lake: Trails, Landscapes and Museum

Turtle Lake offers different ways to experience its landscapes, trails, and local history: two trails differ in length and route, while Rustic Road 67 offers views of forests, wetlands, and the edge of Skinaway Lake. At the Turtle Lake Museum, you’ll encounter topics ranging from local history to antique telephones. Overnight camping at Village Park, along with several named dining options and Jim's Dairy Store, rounds out the picture of the area. This gives you specific starting points for nature, culture, and dining during your stay.

Trails with Different Routes

The Northern Railroad Trail is accessible in Turtle Lake and runs about 13 miles to Cumberland, providing access to downtown Cumberland. The Cattail State Trail extends for 18 miles along a former railroad corridor between Amery and Almena and passes through the Village of Turtle Lake. The two trails therefore differ in length and direction: the Northern Railroad Trail provides access to downtown Cumberland, while the Cattail passes through Turtle Lake between the two named communities. You can compare these route profiles as you plan your trail day.

Rustic Road 67 and the Landscape

Rustic Road 67 runs north through Turtle Lake. Its 4.6-mile paved route passes through forests and wetlands, alongside fields and wooded areas, and along the edge of Skinaway Lake. Wildlife and wildflowers are also among the natural features along the route. At 4.6 miles, the route is shorter than either trail; it is also a paved road rather than a trail. In this way, it adds a distinct type of landscape and route to the area’s trails.

Local History and the Railroad at the Museum

Several buildings and outdoor exhibits can be visited at the Turtle Lake Museum. The exhibits cover the history of Turtle Lake, the railroad, war memorabilia, schools, and agriculture. A collection of antique telephones is also on display. The topics range from the town’s history and everyday life to a very specific area of collecting. You’ll also encounter the railroad on the Cattail State Trail, but in a different form: the trail follows a former railroad corridor, while the railroad is an exhibit topic at the museum.

Village Park and Overnight Camping

Overnight camping is available at Turtle Lake’s Village Park. The restrooms there are open during the summer months. If you include the park in your travel plans, you can take this seasonal opening into account when planning your timing.

Dining Options and Wisconsin Cheese

St. Croix Casino Turtle Lake offers food at the Me-Ki-Noc Restaurant, The Book Grill, and the Prime Rib Stand. The Prime Rib Stand serves its signature prime rib sandwich as well as other quick meals. Jim's Dairy Store offers a variety of Wisconsin cheeses, cheese trays, gift boxes, and dairy products. The options differ: the casino has three named dining options, while the dairy store carries cheese and dairy products as well as gift boxes.

Planning Your Stay in Turtle Lake

If you’re looking for a vacation rental in Turtle Lake, your preferred daily activities can help guide your choice of destination. Trail routes, the paved Rustic Road 67, museum visits, and dining options offer different experiences. First, consider which of these experiences you’d like to focus on; this can help you decide whether Turtle Lake suits your travel plans.

Discover more destinations: Chetek, Rice Lake.

For the broader travel overview: Barron County.