Eagle River, Wisconsin Full Episode | Lakes, Snowmobiles, and Northwoods Traditions

Eagle River, Wisconsin sits in the Northwoods, surrounded by one of the most extensive freshwater lake systems anywhere. Eagle River in Vilas County is defined by water, winter, and a long-standing connection to outdoor life. With 28 connected lakes forming the largest inland chain of freshwater lakes in the world, Eagle River’s identity starts on the water and extends into every season. John McGivern explores how that landscape shapes daily life, from the Burnt Rollways Boat Hoist—moving boats between lake chains—to businesses built around lake culture and community gathering. In winter, the focus shifts to snowmobiling. Eagle River is known as the Snowmobile Capital of the World, home to the World Snowmobile Headquarters, hundreds of miles of trails in Vilas County, and the World Championship Snowmobile Derby, which draws competitors and spectators from around the globe. The episode also highlights traditions that rely on local effort, including the hand-built ice castle, constructed each year from blocks cut from Silver Lake, and The Dome, a historic indoor ice arena dating to 1933. Small businesses and family-run spots—from a 20-seat brunch café to a lakefront pirate ship experience—show how entrepreneurship fits into the rhythm of the Northwoods.Across seasons, Eagle River reflects a place where water, weather, and community continue to shape how people live and gather. 0:00 Intro 3:03 World Snowmobile Headquarters 6:31 Eagle River Depot Museum 7:12 Eddie B's White Spruce 7:45 Toad in the Hole 10:09 Wisconsin Hockey Hall of Fame 10:37 Pirates Hideaway 13:24 Burnt Rollways Boat Hoist 15:52 Rocking W Stable 16:17 Iconik Etchings 19:53 Marina Bar 21:22 Arrow Gift Shop 21:41 Mary Kate's Wine Bar ‪@marykateswinebar4592‬ 22:01 Andy's Pontoon Saloon New Episodes drop every Thursday On Air Thursdays at 7:00pm on @pbswisconsin and @milwaukeepbs Check your local #PBS listings to find out where it airs across the Midwest or stream on YouTube and the free PBS Video App Stay Connected Follow us on social media for updates, sneak peeks, and more: Instagram:   / mainstreetstv   Facebook:   / mainstreetstv   Twitter:   / mainstreetstv   We Want to Hear from You! What was your favorite spot from this episode? Let us know in the comments below! Discover More Check out our playlist for more amazing Main Streets stories. #JohnMcGivernsMainStreets #ExploreLocal #MidwestStories