The Merrimac Ferry is open for the 2024 season! The Merrimac Ferry is a cable ferry that crosses the Wisconsin River between Columbia and Sauk Counties in Wisconsin. Its western point is located near the village of Merrimac on State Highway 113. The eastern point is located in Okee, Wisconsin.
We’ve made a nearly annual tradition out of taking a lazy afternoon trip on the Merrimac Ferry. Up until our most recent trip, the point of our trip has mostly been to just take the ferry across the Wisconsin River and back and go to dinner at one of the restaurants near the bridge over Lake Wisconsin in Okee, WI.
The Merrimac Ferry is FREE to ride and part of WI Hwy 113. It ferries car, motorcycle, bicycle, and pedestrian traffic between the east and west banks of Lake Wisconsin in Merrimac, WI, 24 hours a day from approximately April 15 to November 15 each year. It has a capacity of 12 automobiles. Depending on time of day, season, and weather, your wait for the ferry could be just a few minutes or 20+ minutes. The ferry ride itself is about 7 minutes long.
We love to stop at The Merrimac Scoop for ice cream — it’s become a tradition! Other nearby restaurants to eat at are Fish Tales Restaurant and Ferry Xing Bar & Grill.
After the Merrimac Ferry — you can head up to Parfrey’s Glen State Natural Area, Sauk City Riverfront Park or Devil’s Lake State Park — all are great day trips or adventures!
Do you have a favorite stop when riding the Merrimac Ferry?
Thank you for sharing a favorite place to visit. We will definitely be visiting this little gem.
You’re welcome Sue! Have a great time when you go! My son had a vacation day from school last Friday and we went again at his request. Much different scenery in spring than in summer or fall. Tons of rare and protected wildflowers in bloom right now!
Looks like a fun place to explore…and the ferry…well, we are just going to have to check it out! Thanks for the nice article, Laura! Love, Mom