on Dead Horse Bend
ABOUT US
The Sportsmen's Chalet is a bar and restaurant owned-and-run by Gary Don and Laurel Frank since 1981. Located along the scenic Wisconsin River, we are a popular, family-friendly destination spot for locals and tourists alike during all seasons.
Whether it's relaxation or the exchange of stories of fishing, deer hunting, outdoor adventures or snowmobiling, the Sportsmen's Chalet is the right place for you.
Come take a look at our beautiful wildlife mounts, antiques, and hand-carved wood carvings of freshwater fish and wildlife. Enjoy our delicious cocktails, appetizers, homemade soups and chili, plus sandwiches and great dinners. Food and beverage carryout available. Pool table and arcade games located in the bar.
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The Sportsmen's Chalet is accessible by boat, canoe or kayak via our dock on the Wisconsin River. We are located along a main ATV route and bike path, which becomes a main snowmobile trail during the winter season.
HISTORY OF DEAD HORSE BEND
In the late 1800's, where the Sportsmen's Chalet is currently located, there was once a farm. Located on the opposite side of the Wisconsin River was a logging camp. The loggers would often bring their horses across the river for food and lodging at the farm. Occasionally, as they were crossing the river, the horses would fall through the frozen river and die. The bend in the river where the loggers often crossed was nicknamed "Dead Horse Bend."
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In 1917, a bar was built where the farm once was. The owners of the bar, Charlie and Julia Blanquart, called it the Dead Horse Bend Saloon. In the early 1900s, the Dead Horse Bend was a stopping point for tourists riding up the Wisconsin River on steamboats. The resort-goers were dropped off at the bar and then picked up by horse-and-buggy to be taken to their summer homes or resorts they frequented. Even during the time of Prohibition, the Dead Horse Bend Saloon was known for being a place where alcoholic beverages would be served.
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In 1936, the bar was purchased by Mabel Simon, and its soon became known as a place where "anything was for sale." It became frequented by rougher clientele and law of the day often gave the location a wide berth. Mabel owned the infamous saloon until the 1960s. The Dead Horse Bend then had several different owners and several different names. In 1981, Gary Don and Laurel Frank purchased the bar and renamed it the Sportsmen's Chalet on Dead Horse Bend. Over the passed 36 years, Gary Don and Laurel have earned a reputation as active St. Germain community members, often holding pig roasts and raffles to benefit local charities and snowmobile clubs.
CONTACT US
Contact us to get information on cabin rentals or Gary Don Frank's Original Wood Carvings.
Phone Calls Preferred!
Thank You.
