THE BRIGHT SIDE
Take this as your official invitation to explore the great outdoors that Wisconsin has to offer.
It’s almost time because, during the 12th annual Free Fun Weekend on the first weekend in June, it all begins. The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) invites the public to head outdoors for the 12th annual Free Fun Weekend happening June 1-2, 2024. State Park admission fees, fishing licenses, and trail passes are waived for all visitors. With 50 state parks, 15 state forests, 44 state trails, 84,000 miles of rivers and streams, and roughly 15,000 lakes, Wisconsin has a little something for everyone to enjoy.
Free Fun Weekend is also an opportunity to try fishing for food or fun before purchasing an annual fishing license. Before heading to a state park, trail, or waterbody near you, there are a few helpful things to know: vehicle admission stickers will not be required, most state parks and trails will be open from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m., all linear/rail trails, including ATV and horseback riding trails, will be open to the public, residents, and non-residents will not be required to have a fishing license or trout/salmon stamps to fish. This is the perfect time of year for small and largemouth bass, panfish, and northern pike to be active. DNR boat launches are open so if you go out then always wear a life jacket when fishing from a boat, kayak, canoe, or paddleboard. Consider taking the trail less traveled and visiting some lesser-known “hidden gem” state properties, to discover something new.
Built Ford tough. Lake Geneva has a small Ford Dealership that sits on the side of the road at the north end of town, located just a bit west of Highway 12. That place has people working for it that are hard to believe. Anyone walking in the front door is greeted with a great warm welcome, sort of like that received if arriving in the lobby of the Ridge Hotel, but it’s the mechanical section, back in the back, where this dealership doesn’t act like the ‘normal’ car dealership most people are used to dealing with and suffering from. The ‘crew’ back there tells the truth. What’s that, you might ask? In an auto dealership? The work’s done like right way? What’s that, again? Finally, the price is reasonable for both parts (genuine) and amount. The GSR doesn’t get to write about many auto repair or servicing operations with these kinds of glowing compliments. The GSR has cars that need work so, please, don’t everyone run there to take advantage.
