Rusk County, Wisconsin
The Chippewa River winds through Rusk County in northwestern Wisconsin, an area with deep roots in the timber industry. Logging has shaped the county for generations. Ladysmith, the county seat, has shown plenty of resilience, rebuilding after a powerful tornado struck the community in 2002.
The Blue Hills in the western part of the county provide scenic hiking opportunities, while numerous lakes and streams attract anglers throughout the year. Outdoor recreation is a big part of life here, with plenty of natural areas to explore.
Winters can be seriously cold and snowy, but that doesn’t stop locals from enjoying them. Snowmobiling is a favorite winter tradition across the county. When summer arrives, the county fair brings residents together for food, entertainment, and community fun. Across the landscape, dairy farms and forests share the countryside, giving Rusk County its classic northern Wisconsin character.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| County Name | Rusk County |
| County Seat | Ladysmith |
| Cities, Towns, and Communities | Ladysmith, Bruce, Hawkins, Conrath, Sheldon |
| Interstates and Highways | US-8, WI-27, WI-40, WI-73 |
| Etymology | Named after Jeremiah M. Rusk, the 15th Governor of Wisconsin |
| FIPS Code | 55-107 |
| Total Area (Land and Water) | 931 sq mi (Land: 913 sq mi; Water: 18 sq mi) |
| Time Zone | Central Time Zone (CT) |
| State | Wisconsin |
| Coordinates | 45.4758° N, 91.1269° W |
| Major Landmarks | Flambeau River, Rusk County Historical Society Museum, Josie Creek Park |
| Adjacent Counties (and Direction) | Washburn County (Northwest), Sawyer County (North), Price County (East), Taylor County (Southeast), Chippewa County (South), Barron County (West) |
| Population | Approximately 14,000 |
