The Days of Summer “It’s cooler by the lake.” - every Wisconsin resident 106 lakes, to be exact, plus 10 rivers. Our summer months average 75-80 degrees. Marathon County has a conversational summer climate. Outdoor adventure is in full swing! Paddle the Great Pinery Heritage Waterway, newly designated by the Department of Natural Resources as the 21st state waterway. The new scenic, urban, and historical water trail is 108 miles in length, the 4th longest water trail in the state. Many of the launches are ADA- accessible. For recreational users to adrenaline junkie whitewater kayaking - there are thrills for everyone. The boating, fishing and swimming opportunities are interspersed in places to grab lunch and a cra ! beverage - and then continue your adventure. 57 unique parks are maintained by the county. RV Parks and campgrounds are scattered on the water, in the woods and in the heart of the city of Wausau at 100+ year old Marathon Park. Mountain, gravel and road biking are in full swing with well maintained trails in places like Nine Mile, Sylvan, Big Eau Pleine, Ringle, Mountain Bay, Underdown, Prairie Dells. Basecamp here and take short drives to many more easy to get to trail systems! Golf on one of our nine courses, or drive a short distance to experience world-class Sand Valley or Sentryworld. Five disc golf courses o ff er fun challenges and exercise. While temps at night aren’t hot, the nightlife is. Every advantage is taken to be outside. Weekly free Wednesday night concerts at the 400 block downtown with food trucks and dining on the street. Take in a baseball game with the Wausau Woodchucks at the historic Athletic Park, or hike the River Edge Trail along the great Wisconsin River. Festivals for the rest of youse. One of the largest Hmong Festivals in the Midwest features singing and dancing competitions, sports tournaments, food and merchandise vendors, fireworks, and other cultural and arts entertainment throughout the two-day weekend. Taste N’ Glow Balloon Fest features balloonists from around the world during a weekend with food, family fun, rides and a few other surprises. The “glow” is every evening with over 40 hot air balloons of all shapes and sizes. With Pridefest, Junteenth, World Cultures Day, Wings Over Wausau, Chalkfest, Big Bull Falls Bluesfest, Colby Cheese Fest (the home of colby cheese), and the 150 year old Wisconsin Valley Fair, there are more cool fests a short drive from basecamp! You won’t experience the dog days of summer, you’ll just be dog-tired with the fresh air and fun times! ! e Great Nearby 6