5 hikes to try this spring in Wisconsin

Lace up your boots or your walking shoes and explore the Dairy State this spring. Wisconsin is home to some amazing hikes that offer outstanding scenery, from popular state parks to lesser-traveled routes in the Northwoods. Here are five you should check out.

North Trout Lake Trail, Boulder Junction

The Northern Highland-American Legion (NHAL) State Forest covers more than 230,000 acres across three counties in the Northwoods of Wisconsin near the towns of Woodruff and Minocqua in Oneida County and Boulder Junction in Vilas County. The North Trout Lake Trail is a short, mile-long route that loops around a bog of black spruces and tamaracks and skirts the shores of Trout Lake.

George W. Mead State Wildlife Area, Marshfield

This 33,000-acre wildlife area can be found 20 miles east of downtown Marshfield in Marathon County and boasts nearly 75 miles of maintained hiking trails that offer a great way to see central Wisconsin’s beautiful scenery. It’s also an outstanding place for birdwatching—nearly 275 species have been spotted here.

North Lakeland Discovery Center Trails, Manitowish Waters

The North Lakeland Discovery Center—a nature center located in Manitowish Waters in northwestern Vilas County—offers 12 miles of multi-use trails along the Manitowish River and the shores of Statehouse Lake. There’s a marked Interpretive Trail and a Birding Trail for those who want to learn more about the area’s nature and wildlife.

Sam Campbell Memorial Trail, Three Lakes

This pet-friendly trail system in the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest is named for nature enthusiast, philosopher, and writer Sam Campbell and takes hikers through pines and hardwoods. A section of the trail leads to the shores of Vanishing Lake (a popular subject in Campbell’s writings).

East and West Bluff Trails, Devil’s Lake State Park

This popular state park just south of Baraboo in central Wisconsin is home to all kinds of incredible opportunities for outdoor recreation, including swimming, paddling, fishing, and rock climbing, but hikers have nearly 30 miles of scenic trails to choose from. The East and West Bluff Trails that surround the lake offer challenging hikes that are well worth the views.