Cathedral of the Pines is a wonderfula rea of the forest. It is a 40 acre grove of white pine and hemlock. The US Forest Service Sign at this sight tells a short story. ” in the early 1900’s, Lucy Rumsey Holt brought her children here to teach them prayers and Bible stories. These pines and hemlocks seemed to her a sacred place. She names it “Cathedral Woods” and persuaded her husband, the president of Holt Lumber Company, to preserve it. Because of her, this stand of virgin timber was never logged. ” It is a beautiful, peaceful place to explore. According to the National Forest Service Guide there are more than 100 blue heron nests that reside in this area. The cluster of nests is referred to as a rookery. Nesting season is from May through July; the birds make amazing sounds during their nesting season. The forest service asks that you stay at least 300 feet away from the nesting area. Cathedral of the Pines is approximately 1/2 hour from the ranch.
A well hidden treasure is the Oconto River Fishing Trail located on the South Branch of the Oconto River. This branch is home to Brook Trout and Brown Trout. That boardwalks and fishing platforms are handicap accessible; allowing for all to enjoy the experience of fishing from the platforms that jut out over the river or you can choose to sit; stroll; and enjoy the scenic riverway and the quiet of the forest. Again, it is about 1/2 hour from the ranch.
This is a favorite area for locals and vacationers alike. They have lovely swimming areas with sand beaches. The water is beautiful and clear with plenty of beach front for family fun. There are some picnic tables available; as well as a bathhouse at Bass Lake. The swimming area is buoyed but there is no life guard on duty. There is a nominal carload fee but it a great value for the money. So bring your picnic lunch and beach towels and enjoy the day. Bass and Boot Lake are approximately 1/2 hour from the ranch.
In Mountain itself is the old Forestry Fire Tower. Folks are welcome to climb to the top and soak in the view. The old Fire Tower is not for the faint of heart. It is a steel tower that rocks, rattles, and rolls as you go. It is definitely a feeling of pride if you make it to the top.
Adjacent Marinette County is a bit of a drive, but is worth a day’s adventure to explore the Marinette Waterfalls Tour. There is some hiking involved; but well worth the effort to enjoy some of the beautiful waterfalls in the area. Link to Waterfall Names and directions: www.wisconsincountyforests.com/counties/waterfall.htm
