In the late 1800s, where the Sportsmen's Chalet is currently located, there was a horse farm. Located on the other side of the Wisconsin River was a logging camp. The loggers would often bring their horses across the river; sometimes the horses would fall through the frozen river and drown. The bend in the river where the loggers often crossed was nicknamed "Dead Horse Bend." In 1917, a bar was built where the farm once was; the owners of the bar called in Dead Horse Bend, after the bend in the river. In the early 1900s, tourists rode on steamboats up the river and were dropped off at the bar to be picked up by horse-and-buggy to be taken to their summer homes and the resorts they frequented. In 1981, Gary Don and Laurel Frank bought the bar and renamed it the Sportsmen's Chalet on Dead Horse Bend. Gary Don and Laurel quickly began to learn the history of "Dead Horse Bend" and have shared it with many patrons who have frequented the establishment. The Sportsmen's Chalet caters to all ages and serves a variety of food and drink options. The establishment also has water access to the Wisconsin River - perfect for kayakers, canoers, and fishermen alike. The bar/restaurant is also located along a popular snowmobile trail and serves amazing breakfast during winter months. The owners rent out cabins for snowmobiling, hunting and fishing, or a great weekend getaway. Come Sundays for Chicken Sh*t Bingo, a local favorite! The atmosphere is warm and inviting.
