Overlook Loop

For Wisconsin residents craving an immersive outdoor experience with truly breathtaking views, Overlook Loop near Crivitz offers a unique and memorable destination. While not a traditional campground in the sense of offering overnight campsites with individual hookups, Overlook Loop is an integral part of the larger Thunder Mountain Overlook Park. This area is a prime location for day-use activities, providing stunning vistas, extensive trail systems, and a serene natural environment that captures the essence of Wisconsin's Northwoods.

Overlook Loop is primarily recognized for its elevated position as the highest point in Marinette County, providing panoramic views that are particularly spectacular during the autumn months when the foliage bursts into vibrant colors. It's a place where you can truly appreciate the vastness and beauty of Western Marinette County, including the impressive High Falls Flowage. Visitors frequently describe the scenery as "So beautiful!" and a "magnificent scene," emphasizing its visual appeal.

Designed for active exploration, Overlook Loop features well-maintained trails for hiking and mountain biking, making it a popular spot for locals looking to stretch their legs and connect with nature. While it doesn't offer overnight camping directly on the "loop" itself, it serves as an exceptional starting point for a day of adventure, complemented by nearby camping options within Marinette County Parks for extended stays.

Location and Accessibility

Overlook Loop is located within Thunder Mountain Overlook Park, with its address often associated with Crivitz, WI 54114, USA. More specifically, the park's address is W14000 Thunder Mountain Road, Crivitz, WI 54114. This places it in Western Marinette County, a region renowned for its abundant natural landscapes, including forests, rivers, and waterfalls.

Accessing Thunder Mountain Overlook, and by extension, Overlook Loop, is relatively straightforward for Wisconsin locals. From Crivitz, visitors typically follow County Highway W west for approximately 14 miles, then turn north onto Cauldron Falls Road for about 2.5 miles. While the final approach might involve rural roads, they are generally passable for most vehicles. The park is open daily from 5 AM to 10 PM, from May 1st through the end of deer hunting season, closing for the winter months.

It's important to note that a Marinette County Parks day or season pass is required for entry, which can be purchased at self-service stations at park entrances or online. This contributes to the upkeep of the park and its trails, ensuring the beauty and accessibility are maintained for all visitors. The location provides a sense of being truly immersed in nature, yet is within reasonable driving distance for a day trip from many parts of Northeastern Wisconsin.

Services Offered

As a day-use park and scenic overlook area, Overlook Loop within Thunder Mountain Overlook Park provides essential services focused on facilitating outdoor recreation and visitor comfort during daylight hours. While it doesn't offer traditional overnight camping services directly, it supports various activities for visitors.

• Hiking and Mountain Biking Trails: The primary service is access to nearly 3 miles of scenic, clearly marked trails suitable for both hiking and mountain biking. These trails traverse varying hilly terrain.
• Rest Areas/Picnic Spots: Along the trails, visitors will find designated rest areas and picnic spots, providing opportunities to pause, enjoy the views, and have a meal amidst nature.
• Rustic Restrooms: Basic restroom facilities are available within the park, ensuring convenience for visitors spending extended time on the trails.
• Water Hand Pump: Potable water is available via a hand pump, allowing visitors to refill water bottles during their exploration.
• Scenic Overlooks: The park's main draw is its stunning overlook, providing panoramic views of Western Marinette County, including the High Falls Flowage. This feature is accessible to all visitors.
• Trail Maps: Trailside maps are clearly marked throughout the park, helping visitors navigate the various loops and paths.
• Park Entry: Marinette County Parks day or season pass required for entry. Passes can be obtained at self-service stations or online.
• No Overnight Camping: It's crucial to understand that Overlook Loop itself does not offer campsites for overnight stays. Nearby Marinette County Parks (e.g., Twin Bridge Park Campground, Morgan Park Campground, Goodman Park Campground, Veteran's Memorial Campground, Twelve Foot Falls Campground) offer various camping options, including electric and non-electric sites, cabins, and group sites.

Features / Highlights

Overlook Loop, as part of Thunder Mountain Overlook Park, is rich in natural features and highlights that make it a compelling destination for outdoor enthusiasts in Wisconsin.

• Highest Point in Marinette County: The park is home to the highest elevation in Marinette County, offering unparalleled panoramic views, particularly spectacular during the fall colors season.
• Extensive Trail System: With almost 3 miles of scenic hiking and mountain biking trails, the park provides ample opportunity for exercise and exploration through varied terrain, including native plants and trees.
• Breathtaking Views of High Falls Flowage: The overlook provides a stunning vantage point to view the expansive High Falls Flowage, a significant body of water in the region.
• Peaceful and Serene Atmosphere: The natural setting ensures a quiet and tranquil experience, allowing visitors to connect with nature and enjoy a sense of solitude.
• Accessible Recreation: While some trails may have varying terrain, the availability of restroom facilities and water, along with marked trails, makes the area accessible for a range of activity levels for a day visit.
• Seasonal Beauty: The park is particularly renowned for its autumn colors, making it a prime destination for fall foliage viewing. It opens in May and closes after deer season, offering beauty throughout spring, summer, and fall.
• Picnic Opportunities: Designated picnic spots along the trails and within the park allow visitors to enjoy meals amidst the beautiful scenery.

Contact Information

For information regarding Overlook Loop and Thunder Mountain Overlook Park, as it falls under the Marinette County Parks system, general inquiries can be directed to the Marinette County Parks Department. While specific phone numbers for the Overlook Loop itself are not typically provided, here's how to get in touch:

Address: W14000 Thunder Mountain Road, Crivitz, WI 54114, USA (for Thunder Mountain Overlook Park)

General Marinette County Parks Information: (715) 732-7530 (This number is often associated with the Marinette County Parks Department, which oversees all county parks and campgrounds, and can provide details on passes, rules, and conditions for Thunder Mountain Overlook Park.)

Website: It is highly recommended to visit the official Marinette County Parks website (www.marinettecountywi.gov/parks) or Marinette County Tourism (www.exploremarinettecounty.com) for the most up-to-date information on park hours, pass requirements, trail maps, and any seasonal closures or alerts. Information on nearby campgrounds for overnight stays can also be found on these websites.

Conclusion: Why This Place is Suitable for Locals

For Wisconsin residents, Overlook Loop within Thunder Mountain Overlook Park represents an exceptional opportunity to experience the natural grandeur of their home state. It's perfectly suited for locals due to its convenient accessibility from various parts of Northeastern Wisconsin, making it an ideal destination for day trips, whether for a spontaneous hike or a planned outdoor adventure. The required county park pass contributes to the upkeep of this beautiful natural asset, ensuring it remains pristine for future visits by the community.

The primary draw, the "stunning overlook" at the highest point in Marinette County, offers unparalleled views that can be enjoyed throughout the open seasons, especially during the vibrant fall. This provides a unique recreational and scenic experience that fosters a deeper appreciation for Wisconsin's landscape. The well-maintained network of hiking and mountain biking trails caters to active individuals and families looking for invigorating outdoor exercise.

While not an overnight campground itself, Overlook Loop's role as a fantastic day-use area complements the abundance of excellent camping options available in nearby Marinette County Parks. This allows locals to combine a day of breathtaking views and trail exploration with a comfortable camping experience nearby. For those who value natural beauty, active recreation, and accessible outdoor spaces, Overlook Loop offers a truly enriching experience right in their Wisconsin backyard.

Overlook Loop

Crivitz, WI 54114, USA