Wisconsin's Scenic Lake Under An Hour From Milwaukee Is A Boating Paradise With Fishing, Wildlife, And Trails

While many know Wisconsin for Milwaukee, just under an hour away from the state's largest city is Big Cedar Lake, the largest lake in Washington County. With over 10 miles of shoreline and plenty of surrounding trees, it's a scenic spot to cast a line or stroll on one of the nearby trails. Big Cedar Lake also has four public boat launches and parking for vehicles with trailers available, making access to the lake for recreational users more convenient. The primary boat launch can be accessed from Gonring Drive for a daily or seasonal access fee. Other boating access points include a landing at Paradise Drive, a ramp off Cedar Park Drive, and another is available off South Hacker Drive.

A number of locally owned lodging and dining options are also available for those who visit the area. For couples who want to enjoy a "romantic getaway" featuring a complimentary spa service and a comfort-food-filled breakfast, the Hidden Serenity Bed and Breakfast is a well-rated option in the area. For an elevated lakeside dining experience, make a reservation at Timmer's Resort, where you can enjoy cherry barbecue ribs or Friday fish fry options.

Though smaller than Wisconsin's waterfront paradise of Lake Winnebago, Big Cedar Lake supports a variety of fish for anglers. However, its clear waters can make catching them a bit challenging. Travel Wisconsin shares strategies for improving your chances of catching different species, including which types of bait to use and which areas to fish for bass, pike, or panfish. Several regulations are in place to ensure Big Cedar Lake maintains its fish populations. This includes catching limits of no more than five bass that must be over 14 inches and a maximum of three walleye, with each being over 18 inches.

Visitors can enjoy activities on the lake year-round. Boating is popular in the warmer months, and Big Cedar Lake's waters welcome kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding. Others also utilize the area for watersports like tubing and wakeboarding. Recreational users can also enjoy views of the surrounding trees and residences while cruising around the lake. Among other things to do are a number of lakeside activities, thanks to nearby parks and nature preserves offering an idyllic nature escape with wetlands and unique wildlife.

A variety of scenic trails at Wisconsin nature preserves surround Big Cedar Lake, offering hiking experiences and wildlife sightings. Visitors can enjoy year-round recreation at the Fox Hill Nature Preserve. In addition to kames and moraines, visitors can hike, snowshoe, and cross-country ski through prairie, wetland, and woodland landscapes on the preserve's more than 5 miles of multi-use trails, according to the Cedar Lakes Conservation Foundation. The Polk Kames Kettle Hills Nature Preserve also offers access to Wisconsin's Ice Age National Scenic Trail. Along the 3-mile segment, hikers can see wetlands and wooded areas alike.

If you want a scenic view while you walk or ski with your dog, visit the Rudorf Farm. The 98 acres feature lots of open farmland, black locust trees and flowers, and offer a view of Big Cedar Lake. Those who enjoy birdwatching may also enjoy this location in the spring when neotropical migratory birds pass through the area. Those interested in bluebirds and lengthier trails should consider adding Water Spirits Preserve to their itinerary. The 101-acre preserve features a pond with frogs, lots of greenery, and 4 miles of pet-friendly hiking trails.