Lake Hallie has new homes and convenient access to Eau Claire
The growing bedroom community of Lake Hallie, located between Chippewa Falls and Eau Claire, has become popular with those who want access to the jobs in the nearby metros without giving up the benefits of rural living. Of course, that may be short-lived, since new subdivisions are quickly taking over the landscape. "They're developing over farmland, so it has more of an open feel," says Dave Strassman, broker and owner of Riverbend Realty Group and a 15-year Chippewa Valley real estate veteran.
New builds and existing styles with breathing room
New custom and spec homes make this a popular area for second and third homeowners, according to Strassman. Existing homes include various styles, including Minimal Traditional and ranch-style properties. Newer options tend to have a ranch-style layout, some with basements. "There are three-quarter-acre lots to 1 1/2-acre lots, so everyone has their own space," Strassman says. The median price is about $350,000, slightly higher than surrounding cities.
Activities on Lake Hallie and Lake Wissota
The namesake Lake Hallie is a popular spot to catch panfish, largemouth bass, northern pike and trout. Open lots are being developed along the lake. Lake Wissota State Park is an even more popular destination about 10 miles north, with activities on land and water. Strassman says the area is full of recreation, bars and restaurants. Residents can enjoy the 7 miles of shared hiking and biking trails. The 6,300-acre lake offers boating, canoeing, kayaking and water skiing.
Small commercial scene; more options in Eau Claire
The village has a small commercial scene between Business 53 and the Highway 53 bypass. Walmart Supercenter, Aldi and Blain's Farm & Fleet are the main anchors. The Eggbreak Café is a highly rated local stop serving country-style breakfast classics. Nearby Eau Claire has a booming retail and restaurant scene. The city's agricultural economy influences its farm-to-table ethos. The downtown options include Midwestern staples, international cuisine, fine dining, cafes, bars and down-to-earth pubs.
Arts programs and Division Division I-caliber offerings at Chippewa Falls area schools
The Chippewa Falls Area Unified School District serves most of the village and earns an overall B-plus from Niche. Kids on the west side may attend Southview Elementary School, while those on the east side can attend Halmstead Elementary. Both schools earn B-plus grades. The district has one middle school and one high school, both offering award-winning fine arts programs. Despite being in a smaller town, students benefit from the co-curricular and academic options of a Division I high school. Chippewa Falls High earns a B-plus.
Music fests draw crowds in Eau Claire
Eau Claire is known for its musical spirit as the birthplace of indie folk artist Justin Vernon, the creative behind Bon Iver. Vernon helped create the Eaux Claires music festival, which hosted big names such as Chance the Rapper and Sufjan Stevens. Country Jam and Hoofbeat continue to draw in country music lovers in the summertime. Hoofbeat has hosted big names such as Keith Urban and Zac Brown Band.
Convenient highway access for commuters
Lake Hallie is considered commuter-friendly, located at the intersection of Highways 29, 124 and 53. Highway 53 is the main route to Chippewa Falls, about 5 miles north, and Eau Claire, about 5 miles south. The Chippewa River State Trail is a pedestrian path through the village. Eau Claire Transit buses also serve the area. Lake Hallie is home to the Chippewa Valley Regional Airport, with daily flights to Chicago via United Airlines. In 2026, it will resume seasonal service to Fort Myers via Sun Country Airlines.
