The secret is getting out: some of the last days of summer can be the best. When the biggest summer crowds leave the Northwoods, a new season begins in St. Germain. The days are warm and beautiful, but the pace of life is a little more relaxed. It’s a time to enjoy St. Germain your own way—a time to soak in the sun one last time in a place that’s all yours. Whether your plans include a spectacular morning hike, a delicious afternoon out on the water, or one last unforgettable St. Germain sunset, St. Germain is here for you. Ready to head to St. Germain? Here’s what’s waiting for you.
Lodging
Many people love St. Germain, and lodging fills up fast on peak weekends. If you time your trip carefully, you can take advantage of a larger selection of properties and find the perfect place for your trip. You can even save some money, as many properties offer off-peak pricing.
“You can find everything from tiny one-bedroom condos to nine-bedroom homes,” said Angela Foulks of Hiller Vacation Homes.
Foulks said the late summer days in St. Germain can be wonderful—there’s a lot to do, and the weather can be perfect. For travel here, it’s kind of a sweet spot.
“It still feels like peak season but with a little more room to breathe,” Foulks said.
Looking for the perfect spot? Here is a full range of St. Germain lodging options.
Weather
If you enjoy pleasantly warm days and cool nights, this is the season to visit St. Germain. The light takes on a golden quality in the Northwoods that makes the days even prettier. Dress in layers: while the mornings and evenings can be cool, the afternoons can be surprisingly warm. If you need to pick up something to stay comfortable while you’re here, explore shops like Coontail and the Plaid Bear to find apparel for any weather. You can sometimes find great seasonal sales—check out our business listings to see more St. Germain shopping options.
Lakes
On the best days, the lakes will remind you that summer isn’t going anywhere. Get out early to enjoy a full day on the water—the lake will feel like it’s all yours, and it’s easy to spend a little more time there. Boat traffic is generally a lot lighter late in the season. You can be out paddleboarding, pontooning, kayaking, and fishing, and your only company might be a loon that is only starting to think about its flight south. The fishing can also be outstanding.
Pete Stoltman, an experienced guide who owns Last Cast Fishing Outfitters, said late summer and early fall are very good for fishing—the fish are still pretty active, and you’ll find plenty of space out on the lakes.
“It’s a pleasant situation,” he said. “You won’t be competing with many people for the good fishing spots.”
Trails
With mosquitoes disappearing, the forests beckon hikers. On mountain bike trails like Fern Ridge, the leaves will be carpeting the singletrack soon, which is beautiful but we have weeks left of fast-paced summer riding. Enjoy every segment and carve away! Fern Ridge also has dedicated hiking trails that are a nice spot for a forest stroll. For a longer hike, head to Shannon Lake Trails, where rolling paths will take you around Shannon Lake. If you prefer a paved trail for a bike ride or walk, explore the Heart of Vilas County Bike Trail—it’s a National Recreation Trail, and it runs right through the heart of St. Germain.
Dining
Our restaurants are very popular, so late summer can be a great time to dine out, whether you prefer a cozy supper club, a tasty breakfast spot, or a classic Northwoods tavern. You’re much less likely to have a long wait, and summer is still patio season at many of St. Germain’s restaurants—get an outside spot while you can! In every establishment, a night with a lighter crowd can be especially relaxing—you’ll get a great table, and you may even get a chance to chat with the restaurant’s owner.
But if you’re eager to get out on the lake but still want to enjoy an unforgettable serving of Cinnamon Roll French Toast, it never hurts to arrive a little early. While crowds are generally much lighter, late summer business can fluctuate, said Darren Kuske, owner of DJ’s Northwoods Family Restaurant, a place that’s popular for its delicious made-from-scratch breakfasts.
“If you want to get in and out, come in as early as you can,” Kuske said.
Don’t miss this perfect time in St. Germain. Plan your trip today!
