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View Downtown Three Lakes in a larger map
Three Lakes is a small community nestled amidst the 650,000-acre Chequamegon Nicolet National Forest, known for its crystal clear lakes, abundant fisheries, trophy deer and an array of wildlife species.
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The community's greatest natural resource is the largest inland chain of lakes in the world, consisting of 28 interconnected lakes. The variety of lakes and channels within the chain provide sufficient space for water skiing, wake boarding and boating as well as canoeing and kayaking. The Nicolet side of the National Forest offers spectacular opportunities for bicycling, hiking, birding, photography, hunting, camping, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing and snowmobiling.
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Downtown Three Lakes provides the old-fashioned charm of a storefront community. Its main street is lit by antique looking lampposts and lined with unique gift shops, restaurants and other small businesses. Fall, winter, spring or summer; every season offers unique recreational opportunities and spectacular settings. Come spend time in our friendly town. If you have any questions when you arrive visit the Three Lakes Area Chamber. We are always willing to help. Call 715.546.3344 or 1.800.972.6103 for assistance.
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Three Lakes - A Short History
Fathered by the Chicago & Northwestern Railroad in 1881, Three Lakes become a welcome stop on this historic track. The railroad brought various industries to Three Lakes including logging, farming, and finally tourism. Three Lakes, like other Northwoods communities, formed because of the natural resources, which greeted early settlers over 100 years ago.
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The town received it name after railroad surveyors attempted to run a straight line north through the timbered highlands. Instead, they came across a beautiful lake surrounded by virgin maple, and appropriately named it Maple Lake. The next lake encountered was bisected by the surveyed town line and hence was dubbed Town Line Lake. The final lake they encountered had a range line running along the west side so they named it Range Line Lake. As a result, the supply station born on the frustration of these surveyors was marked "3 Lakes". "3 Lakes" became a hub of activity as loggers came seeking the pine and hardwood forests, to be followed in time by pioneer farmers.
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On July 15, 1881, the Lake Shore Traffic Company purchased the first 120 acres in the area. The community of Three Lakes, which included loggers, merchants, and other settlers, began to thrive in October of 1881, when Mr. Cahman built a combination store and post office.
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History above courtesy of the Three Lakes Historical Society's publication, "The Pine, The Plow & The Pioneer, Vol I" available at the Three Lakes Museum or at the Chamber.
1704 Superior Street • PO Box 268 • Three Lakes, WI 54562 • 715.546.3344 • 800.972.6103 • vacation@threelakes.com
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