Pepin, Lake   

(pĕp´Ĭn, pĬp´-) , a widening of the Mississippi River, 21 mi (34 km) long and c.3 mi (5 km) wide, SE Minn., between Wabasha and Red Wing; formed by a natural dam of silt dropped by the Chippewa River. Lake Pepin is the largest natural lake that is part of the Mississippi River, forms part of the boundary between Minnesota and Wisconsin. The biggest tourist-vacation spot on the lake on the Wisconsin side is in the city of Pepin.

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The entire area around Pepin is very scenic during every season of the year. In early Spring Eagles can be found in the trees lining the Lake Pepin shore waiting for a tasty bite as the ice goes out. Early Spring is also when Eagles can be seen as they rest on their nest hatching their eggs. Watching beautiful sunsets over the contrasting blue Lake Pepin water is a must in the Summer. Spectacular fall color shows on the bluffs are not to be missed. Wintertime presents bluffs covered with the beautiful white snow  and an opportunity to the view vast expanse of the frozen Lake Pepin.

 Today's visitors come to Pepin to enjoy a few days on Pepin Lake, tour the community or engage in numerous activities.

A very popular place to visit in Pepin is the birthplace and museum dedicated to Laura Ingalls Wilder, author of the famed Little House on the Prairie books. The museum is conveniently located across the street from the Inn.

Pepin is also a popular and scenic place for visitors to pursue their recreational interests. Popular activities include bicycling, motorcycling, boating, sailing, geocaching, bird watching, snowmobiling, ice sailing, hunting and fishing.

Fishing is always in season at Lake Pepin and the surrounding areas. The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources has information to help visitors.

Sail Lake Pepin, or Learn to Sail on Lake Pepin with On-Deck Seminars and Charters.

During the off-season, Pepin tends to quiet down a bit. But, as many returning guests say, they like to take advantage of that time and enjoy the sleepy town all to themselves, since there are fewer tourists in town. They get to enjoy the Inn, drive up and down the Great River Road, and spot bald eagles nesting in the treetops. On a Friday or Saturday they can take advantage of the famous local fish and shrimp fry. Pepin is the perfect off-season retreat when you really want some rest and relaxation.

There are two convenience stores, antique and other specialty shops, a gourmet coffee shop and several restaurants including the famous Harbor View Café, and of course…beautiful Lake Pepin.

 

Natural & Scenic Attractions

TIFFANY WILDLIFE REFUGE 608-685-6222 2 Miles East of Pepin on Highway 35 Hiking, Cross Country Skiing, Nature Study Primitive Camping is allowed by PERMIT ONLY Permit Available at DNR, Alma, Wisconsin 54610

 

Public Water Access

Marinas DAN´S PEPIN MARINA 715-442-4900 1st & Lake Street Open May 1st to October 15th Overnight Dockage, Full Facilities Boat Docks/Landings (Free) DEER ISLAND ROAD To Lake Pepin off Highway 35 between Pepin and Stockholm TIFFANY WILDLIFE AREA 3 Miles East of Pepin adjacent to the  Chippewa River Bridge along Highway 35 PEPIN SPORTSMAN´S LANDING Near Marina Public Access Bathrooms, Fish Cleaning PEPIN COUNTY WISCONSIN LAKES follow link for much more information: Wisconsin Lakes

Recreational Areas

LAURA INGALLS WILDER MEMORIAL PARK 715-442-3011 800 Third Street (Highway 35) Picnic Tables & Shelters, Playground Equipment Water & Toilets

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