The Heart of the Northwoods
Hayward is the unofficial capital of the Wisconsin Northwoods — a small downtown packed with restaurants and shops, a working main street that hugs the mill pond, and a chain of lakes that draws anglers and paddlers from across the Midwest.
Our Hayward properties give you two very different ways to experience town: a guest-favorite home with ATV access just a mile from Main Street, and a 5.0-rated lakefront apartment in the middle of downtown overlooking the historic mill pond.
Whichever you choose, you're a short drive from the American Birkebeiner finish line, the Chippewa Flowage, the Lumberjack Bowl, and dozens of trout streams and walleye lakes.
Cabin Rentals in Hayward
Hand-selected Hayward properties — comfortable, well-appointed, and locally owned.
Why Visit Hayward
Fishing Capital
Hayward Lakes Chain, Chippewa Flowage, the Namekagon River — muskie, walleye, smallmouth, and trout all within minutes.
Walkable Main Street
Local restaurants, breweries, coffee shops, and outfitters — all within a few blocks of the mill pond.
Trail Access
Birkie ski trails, CAMBA mountain biking, and hundreds of miles of ATV and snowmobile routes start at the edge of town.
Year-Round Recreation
Summer waterfalls and lake days, fall colors, winter skiing and snowmobiling, spring fishing openers — every season has its draw.
Hayward Through the Seasons
Summer
Lake days on the Hayward Chain, paddling the Namekagon, summer Lumberjack World Championships in late July, and farm-fresh dinners at downtown spots.
Fall
Peak colors mid-September through early October. Quiet fishing, scenic drives along Hwy 77, and crisp evenings around the fire pit.
Winter
American Birkebeiner ski race, snowmobile trail access from town, ice fishing on the chain, and quiet snowy evenings downtown.
Spring
Walleye opener, waterfalls running full, fewer crowds, and the first warm days on Main Street patios.
Plan Your Hayward Trip
Local guides for things to do, eat, and explore.
Main Street Guide
Where to eat, drink, and shop in downtown Hayward.
Restaurants
Local favorites from supper clubs to coffee shops.
Things to Do
Museums, lakes, the Lumberjack Bowl, and more.
Fall Colors Guide
When and where to catch peak Northwoods color.
Summer Waterfall Tour
Day-trip waterfalls within an hour of Hayward.
Paddling
Best lakes and river stretches near town.
Ready to Book Your Hayward Cabin?
Questions about availability, dates, or which property fits your group? We're happy to help.