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Chippewa County, Wisconsin: Local activities & entertainment

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Cornell
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Explore Cornell, Wisconsin

Why Visit Cornell?

  • Scenic river views and peaceful nature trails with some of the best sunsets visible from the Riverwalk Trail
  • Only remaining pulpwood stacker in the U.S.
  • Gateway to the Ice Age Trail and Chippewa Moraine
  • Brunet Island State Park and state trail access in one location
  • Friendly local culture, rich history, and small-town hospitality

Where Glacial History Meets Outdoor Adventure

Nestled along the scenic Chippewa River, Cornell is your gateway to unforgettable outdoor experiences and rich local history. This charming Ice Age Trail Community offers easy access to hiking, biking, paddling, and cultural attractions—making it a must-visit destination in Chippewa County.

 Brunet Island State Park

Begin your journey at Brunet Island State Park, a beautiful island-filled park perfect for hiking, kayaking, fishing, camping, and wildlife viewing. Its unique landscape, shaped by glacial activity, offers quiet escapes and family fun all year long.

 Old Abe State Trail

The Old Abe State Trail, a 19.5-mile paved trail connecting Cornell to Chippewa Falls, is ideal for biking, hiking, rollerblading, and snowmobiling in winter. The trail follows a former railroad line and offers scenic views along the Chippewa River corridor.

 Mill Yard Park & The Pulpwood Stacker

Cornell is home to the only remaining pulpwood stacker in the United States—a towering relic of the region’s logging era. Visit Mill Yard Park, located at the edge of Brunet Island State Park, to see this one-of-a-kind industrial structure and learn more at the adjacent Cornell Visitor Center and Native American Museum, open May through October. The park also offers a kayak launch, picnic pavilion, a skate park and more.

 An Ice Age Trail Community

Cornell proudly holds the designation of an Ice Age Trail Community, serving as a welcoming hub for hikers exploring the iconic Ice Age National Scenic Trail.

Whether you’re thru-hiking, section hiking, or just out for the day, Cornell offers a great place to rest, resupply, and explore.

 Ice Age Trail Segments near Cornell include:

  • Chippewa Moraine Segment (7.8 miles)
    Pass by 21 glacial kettle lakes and stop at the David R. Obey Ice Age Interpretive Center for hands-on exhibits and trail resources.
  • Harwood Lakes Segment (5.8 miles)
    Traverse Chippewa County Forest and explore glacial erratics, scenic lakes, and peaceful wetlands.
  • Firth Lake Segment (8.2 miles)
    Cross a 700-foot boardwalk over a beaver dam and walk along ridge-top trails in the Firth Lake State Ice Age Trail Area.
  • Chippewa River Segment (1.9 miles)
    Enjoy an easy hike along the Chippewa River and through the Krank Preserve before entering the City of Cornell.

Plan your route using the Ice Age Trail Atlas, or follow the suggested 24.7-mile connecting route from Cornell to the Chippewa County line at County Highway H.

Plan Your Visit
Explore trail maps and park info at:

For Ice Age Trail info, call the David R. Obey Center: 715-967-2800

Ready to Explore?

Go find your next adventure in Chippewa County, Wisconsin. Whether you're here for business, planning a sporting event, exploring with your family, or here to have fun, let us help you plan your stay!

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