[2] It is a dimictic oligotrophic lake that supports a large number of sport fish, which has made it a popular angling destination.

[1][3][5] The water reaches a maximum temperature of 79.30 °F (26.28 °C) and a minimum of 32.418 °F (0.232 °C), contributing to a frozen period range of approximately 78–171 days.

[18][19] Specimens of the invasive Viviparus georgianus, or banded mystery snail, have also been verified within Trout Lake beginning in 2011.

[20] In addition, the invasive European zooplankton Bythotrephes longimanus or spiny water flea has also established numbers within Trout Lake, and its population density began to be surveyed in 2014.

[22] In middle of the 1700s, the Ojibwa established control of the Manitowish Waters area, including Trout Lake.

At the same time, the Ojibwa fought the Dakota people to the west of Trout Lake, including within the Chippewa River basin.

Further expansion of the railway happened in 1913 when Milwaukee Railroad Company purchased the previously built line from Yawkey Bissell Lumber Co.

However, the small hotel could not accommodate all the travelers, so Manns decided to buy one mile of frontage property on the south side of Trout Lake for a new resort.

By 1996, a total of 222,000 acres (89,840 ha) encompassing Vilas, Oneida, and Iron counties made up the now Northern Highland and American Legion State Forests.

Logan Archbold Vilas, nicknamed Jack, was a famous aviator who was part of these historic first flights.

In 1916, WCD established the first state tree nursery at Trout Lake, consisting of two one-acre plots.

In the summer, the lake is a popular fishing location, swimming destinations, has numerous hiking trails, and has several campgrounds.

[27] A popular hiking destination is the aforementioned Cathedral Point, located on the narrow passage between the North and South portions of the lake.

Surrounded by 130 ft (40 m) pine trees, the slight rise in elevation at Cathedral Point allows for fantastic views of the lake.