Waupaca is a popular departure point for canoe and launch trips through the spring-fed lakes and along Crystal River; canoe rentals are available locally. The area's well-stocked trout streams, also filled with pickerel, bass and small pan fish, are extremely popular with anglers.
Nearby Hartman Creek State Park has developed recreational facilities, including snowmobile trails that connect with 288 miles of groomed trails and 150 miles of club trails throughout Waupaca County. This 1,417-acre park also offers seven lakes, four of which are spring-fed and off-limits to gas boat motors and are therefore ideal for kayakers and canoeists; 10 miles of hiking trails, 7 miles of bridle trails, and 5 miles of off-road bicycle trails provide plenty of fun for visitors on land. Largemouth bass, perch, bluegill, and other panfish are the catch of the day. For more information phone (715) 258-2372.
Near the property of The Red Mill, 3 miles south on CR K, are the quaint Chapel in the Woods and, spanning the Crystal River, one of the two surviving covered bridges in Wisconsin. The old mill, built in 1855, has a 24-foot waterwheel, one of the largest in America. The Waupaca City Band, in existence since 1887, performs at 7 p.m. on Fridays from mid-June through the end of July at the City Square bandstand.
Visitor Centers
Waupaca Area Chamber of Commerce 221 S. Main St. Waupaca, WI 54981. Phone:(715)258-7343