Something magical appears in Northern Wisconsin every winter, and it’s a place fit for royalty. The ice castle in Eagle River is an incredible creation that rises almost as fast as the temperatures drop in this little Northwoods town. It’s an incredible creation, and it’s something that you have to see in person. Here’s what you need to know.
Eagle River, pop, 1,398, is a Northwoods town that’s known for winter fun.
It’s called the "Snowmobile Capital of the World," and every year it hosts the World Championship Snowmobile Derby on the north side of town. There are over 500 miles of snowmobile trails surrounding the town.
But there are some winter attractions in Eagle River that don’t require a helmet. All you need to experience this town is a sense of wonder.
The ice castle has been a yearly tradition in Eagle River since 1933 when it began as part of a King of Winter festival.
The castle was a big hit, and it became part of every Eagle River winter season. It’s now one of the most photographed winter sights in the area.
A lot of hard work goes into building the ice castle.
Every year, volunteer firefighters and community members put in about 700 hours of work to construct the castle.
They cut nearly 3,000 12-inch blocks of ice from a local lake and transport them all into downtown Eagle River.
They then use the ice for the building blocks of the castle. When they are done, it stands 20 feet tall!
You’ll find the castle every winter at 116 S Railroad St. Because of natural differences in ice, every year the castle looks a little different. Learn more about the castle and things to see and do in Eagle River on the Eagle River Area Chamber of Commerce website. There are a lot of things to see and do in northern Wisconsin – here are some destinations that are so worth the drive.
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