Cities and Towns in Bayfield County, Wisconsin
Founded in 1845, Bayfield County is one of 72 counties in the state of Wisconsin. Historically, Bayfield County was formed from St. Croix County. The city of Washburn is the county seat. With FIPS code of 7, Bayfield County has a population of 16,320 and area of 1,477.86 square miles (3,828 km²).
List of all cities in Bayfield County, WI alphabetically
- Bayfield, WI
- Benoit, WI
- Cable, WI
- Cornucopia, WI
- Drummond, WI
- Grand View, WI
- Herbster, WI
- Iron River, WI
- Mason, WI
- Port Wing, WI
- Washburn, WI
Major Cities and Towns in Bayfield County, Wisconsin
City of Washburn
Overview
- Area: 6.1 square miles
- Population: Approximately 2,100
- ZIP Codes: 54891
- Latitude: 46.6747° N
- Longitude: 90.8985° W
The City of Washburn is located on the shores of Lake Superior in Bayfield County, Wisconsin. Founded in 1883, Washburn was initially developed as a logging town, taking advantage of its proximity to vast forests and the lake for shipping timber. The city was named after Cadwallader C. Washburn, a prominent Wisconsin politician and industrialist. Throughout the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Washburn grew as an industrial hub, with sawmills and manufacturing plants contributing to its economy. Today, Washburn is known for its picturesque setting, historic charm, and vibrant arts community. The city serves as a gateway to the Apostle Islands and other natural attractions in the region.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Washburn is served by the Washburn School District, which includes Washburn High School, Middle School, and Elementary School. Notable landmarks include the Washburn Historical Museum and Cultural Center, which offers exhibits on the city’s past, and the Chequamegon Bay, a popular spot for boating, fishing, and birdwatching. The Big Top Chautauqua, a nearby performing arts venue, hosts a variety of concerts and events throughout the summer, attracting visitors from across the region.
City of Bayfield
Overview
- Area: 0.6 square miles
- Population: Approximately 470
- ZIP Codes: 54814
- Latitude: 46.8114° N
- Longitude: 90.8235° W
Bayfield, the smallest city in Bayfield County, is located on the northern tip of the Bayfield Peninsula, overlooking the Apostle Islands in Lake Superior. Established in 1856, Bayfield was named after British Admiral Henry Bayfield, who surveyed the Great Lakes in the early 19th century. The city quickly became a key port and fishing community, with its economy centered around the shipping and commercial fishing industries. Over time, Bayfield transitioned into a tourist destination, known for its historic downtown, beautiful waterfront, and access to the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore. The city is a popular spot for sailing, kayaking, and exploring the natural beauty of the area.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Bayfield is part of the Bayfield School District, which includes Bayfield High School, Middle School, and Elementary School. Key landmarks in the city include the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore, offering access to stunning sea caves, lighthouses, and pristine beaches, and the Bayfield Maritime Museum, which preserves the region’s maritime history. The Bayfield Apple Festival, held annually in October, is one of the city’s most famous events, celebrating the local apple harvest with parades, music, and local cuisine.
Town of Cable
Overview
- Area: 143.4 square miles
- Population: Approximately 825
- ZIP Codes: 54821
- Latitude: 46.2050° N
- Longitude: 91.3038° W
The Town of Cable is situated in the southern part of Bayfield County, surrounded by the Chequamegon National Forest. Established in the late 19th century, Cable was initially a logging community, benefiting from the rich forests that covered the region. The town’s name was derived from Ransom Cable, a prominent figure in the development of the Chicago, St. Paul, Minneapolis & Omaha Railway, which was crucial to the town’s early growth. Today, Cable is known for its outdoor recreational opportunities, including some of the best mountain biking, cross-country skiing, and snowmobiling trails in the Midwest. The town’s natural beauty and small-town charm make it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts year-round.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Cable is part of the Drummond Area School District, with students attending Drummond High School, Middle School, and Elementary School in the nearby town of Drummond. Significant landmarks in Cable include the Cable Natural History Museum, which provides educational exhibits on the local flora and fauna, and the CAMBA (Chequamegon Area Mountain Bike Association) Trails, which offer extensive biking paths through the national forest. The American Birkebeiner, the largest cross-country ski race in North America, is held annually near Cable, drawing thousands of participants and spectators.
Town of Iron River
Overview
- Area: 86.4 square miles
- Population: Approximately 1,123
- ZIP Codes: 54847
- Latitude: 46.5672° N
- Longitude: 91.4055° W
Iron River is a small town located in the northwestern part of Bayfield County, surrounded by lakes, rivers, and forests. Founded in the late 19th century, the town was named after the Iron River, which flows through the area. Iron River’s early economy was based on logging and agriculture, with the abundance of natural resources supporting the community’s growth. The town has since become a popular destination for outdoor activities, including fishing, boating, and hiking. Iron River’s scenic beauty and access to the North Country Trail make it a favorite spot for visitors seeking a peaceful retreat in nature.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Iron River is part of the Maple School District, with students attending Northwestern High School in nearby Maple. Notable landmarks in the town include the Iron River National Fish Hatchery, which plays a crucial role in the conservation of native fish species, and the Tri-County Corridor, a multi-use trail that spans 62 miles from Ashland to Superior, providing opportunities for hiking, biking, and snowmobiling. The town also hosts the annual Bayfield County Fair, a popular event that features agricultural exhibits, rides, and entertainment, celebrating the rural heritage of the region.
City of Drummond
Overview
- Area: 81.1 square miles
- Population: Approximately 530
- ZIP Codes: 54832
- Latitude: 46.3386° N
- Longitude: 91.2625° W
Drummond is a small town located in the heart of the Chequamegon National Forest in Bayfield County. The town was founded in the late 19th century as a logging community, with the timber industry serving as the primary economic driver. Drummond’s location in the national forest has preserved much of its natural beauty, with vast tracts of wilderness surrounding the town. Today, Drummond is known for its outdoor recreation, including hunting, fishing, and hiking, making it an ideal location for nature lovers and those seeking a quiet, rural lifestyle.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Drummond is served by the Drummond Area School District, which includes Drummond High School, Middle School, and Elementary School. Significant landmarks include the Drummond Historical Museum, which chronicles the town’s logging history, and the Forest Lodge Library, a historic building that serves as a community hub. The nearby Namakagon River offers excellent canoeing and fishing opportunities, while the Chequamegon National Forest provides access to miles of trails for hiking and wildlife viewing. The annual Drummond Woodsmen’s Day celebrates the town’s logging heritage with events and competitions that draw visitors from across the region.
