There’s no sweeter place to enjoy a bike ride than St. Germain. Our community is home to some of the best biking in the Northwoods, and very mile brings new vistas or lakes and forests. It’s easy to work up a bit of hunger on the trail, and fortunately, St. Germain has some sweet rewards waiting for you. If you’re riding all day or just for a few minutes, you can find a shop ready with ice cream, treats, and more. It’s all right by the trail and a St. Germain ice cream cone is a seasonal moment that generations of travelers savor every year. Enjoy a frosty treat while you can: here are some St. Germain ice cream shops that are just a pedal away.
On the west side of St. Germain, this friendly shop is a place to get something for now and something for later. For now, order up some Chocolate Shoppe Ice Cream – the shop serves all the popular flavors, including vegan and no-sugar options. For later, pick up one of Naturista’s handcrafted cocktail infusion jars. The Heart of Vilas trail passed by just east of the shop and when you park the bike for the day, you can enjoy a unique Old Fashioned, Manhattan, or Margarita!
Cathy’s Ice Cream & Candy Shop
Is Cathy’s the happiest place in the Northwoods? Step inside and try not to smile. This shop has been a fixture in the heart of St. Germain for four decades, and it delivers good times, one scoop at a time. The shop offers over 30 flavors of ice cream, as well as malts, milkshakes, sundaes, candy, chocolates, and more. There’s plenty of outdoor seating, and you can also stop into the Red Canoe Coffee for a little caffeine or a panini. The Heart of Vilas Trail crosses State Highway 70 nearby.
On the east side of St. Germain, Elmer’s Fun Park is a family destination that delights kids of all ages every summer. The park has two go-kart tracks, wet & wild bumper boats, trail rides, mini golf, batting cages, and a play area for kids that includes a bounce house, playground, and an off-road course with little battery-operated Jeeps. The sweetest place in the park is the ice cream shop – choose from 32 flavors! The Heart of Vilas Trail crosses State Highway 70 just outside the park.
About the Trail
St. Germain is the gateway to one of the best bike paths in the Northwoods – the Heart of Vilas County Bike Trail. The trail runs for more than 50 miles, and it’s become a destination for cyclists who want to experience Wisconsin’s Northwoods beauty on two wheels. The trail winds through wild forests, traces glacial lakes, and crosses scenic rivers.
The trail is one of the longest paved bike trails in Wisconsin and it connects St. Germain with Sayner, Boulder Junction, Manitowish Waters, and Mercer. Many consider it to be one of the best trails of its kind in Wisconsin, and it’s recognized as an official National Recreation Trail. There are numerous places to park along the trail, including behind the St. Germain Area Chamber of Commerce office. Stop inside for maps and other information about the area – or just say hello!
