Balsam Lake - Birchwood

Located in Washburn County, Wisconsin

Balsam Lake is a 325 acre lake located in Birchwood, (Washburn County) Wisconsin. It is 102 miles southeast of Duluth, Minnesota, 117 miles northeast of Minneapolis, and 343 miles northwest of Milwaukee.

Balsam Lake is located 75 miles from the Chippewa Regional Airport, which offers connecting flights to major airports. The Hayward Area Memorial Hospital, 33 miles away, will fulfill all your health care needs.

For snacks and groceries, stop by the local Dollar General or shop at ALDI, MarketPlace Foods, and Duke’s Grocery Outlet in Rice Lake, Wisconsin.

Life on the Water

These clear waters offer a convenient public boat landing, the perfect launching point for activities like boating, swimming, kayaking, canoeing, and fishing. The most popular catches on the lake are panfish, largemouth bass, northern pike, and walleye.

Fun in Nearby Hayward

The nearby city of Hayward, only 33 miles away, offers nearby access to entertainment and dining.

The city is one of the most well-loved vacation spots for fishing enthusiasts. The Freshwater Fishing Hall of Fame is a well-known highlight, featuring its iconic Muskie statue, 400 mounted fish, and 300 freestanding outboard motors.

In February, Hayward hosts the American Birkebeiner, the largest, longest, and most popular North American cross country skiing race!

If relaxing is your idea of a good day, sip and chill at the Out of the Woods Winery. For some quality dining, check out Angler’s Bar and Grill, Angry Minnow BrewPub and Restaurant, The Ranch, and The Chippewa Inn.

Visit Duluth

Duluth is the perfect spot for a weekend city getaway in the city while still offering beautiful, natural scenery.

For an outdoor adventure off the water, visit any of the city's 23 parks. The Leif Erickson Park is one of the most popular ones and features a rose garden with 1,800 bushes. It is widely considered one of the best rose gardens in the state.

Lake Superior Zoo offers a fun, family-friendly trip to see over 140 species in indoor and outdoor settings. The zoo also has a cafe, a gift shop, interactive visits, and behind-the-scenes tours.

Looking to take a scenic drive? The North Shore Scenic Drive spans around 150 miles, following the shoreline of Lake Superior. It offers great photo opportunities, historic landmarks, and quaint shops along the way.

When visitors head back to the city and are looking for a place to eat, there's something to satisfy every craving. Highly-rated options include Duluth Grill, OMC Smokehouse, Va Bene, New Scenic Cafe, and Vitta Pizza.

Quiet Lake Life and Nearby Adventures

Balsam Lake provides the serene lake life you have always wanted while still offering access to nearby entertainment and activities. When you live on this lake, you get to do both!