A SIP IN THE NORTHWOODS. The Leinie Lodge frequently welcomes locals and visitors alike to enjoy one of its taproom brews, play games on the patio, or take a tour. What people may not expect, is to find this 'Hidden Mural.'

A few months ago, I scrolled across a local photographer’s Facebook post sharing photos of an unnamed mural near The Leinie Lodge, tucked away underneath the Jefferson Avenue bridge. Despite a couple dozen commenters offering up tidbits of what they had heard about it over the years, no one could name the artist(s) who created it.

So, straight to the source I went: The Leinie Lodge crew. Of course, one of their several tours included information about the mural, including the artists behind it. In 2003, regional artists Andrew F. Goretski and Sharon K. Froli (whose signatures are on the mural) were commissioned to create a wildlife-inspired mural under the bridge.

“Although we call it our ‘Hidden Mural’ because it is ‘hidden’ from the rest of the world and only able to be seen from right here on our patio, its real name is ‘Clean Water from the Northwoods,” the Lodge's tour reads. “It was done to celebrate the clean water of our area.”

Featuring black bears and deer along a creek with loons flying overhead, the mural also showcases White and Norway Pines – trees that were lumbered in the region back in the day, according to the tour. 

While the tour notes the mural is only visible from the Lodge’s patio — if you’ve got your walkin’ shoes on — you can get way closer by shimmying on down either side of the bridge to the banks of Duncan Creek. (I’m not encouraging you to do so, just saying it is possible to get closer. Oh, and be careful if you do. Not that you should.)

And there you have it: the Hidden Mural is all thanks to two regional artists, like most of the artwork around the area. Go enjoy a pint at the Lodge and enjoy the view!

The Leinie Lodge is open seven days a week at 124 E. Elm St., Chippewa Falls.