Whether you’re a seasoned backpacker or just looking to spend the day outside, Wisconsin has plenty of hiking trails that are perfect for all levels. From short jaunts in Milwaukee to multi-day treks through the Northwoods, here are some of my favorite hikes across the state:
Devil’s Lake State Park (Baraboo)
Devil’s Lake State Park is located in Baraboo, Wisconsin and offers a variety of activities, including hiking and biking trails. The park also has an area for swimming and boating on Devil’s Lake which is the largest natural lake in the state of Wisconsin. In addition to its natural beauty, Devil’s Lake State Park has many historical sites as well!
Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest
Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest is a popular spot for hiking, camping and fishing. The forest is known for its wildlife such as moose, bears and wolves. It has over 5500 miles of trails that can be used by hikers or mountain bikers alike. There are also many lakes and rivers within this area where you can go fishing while on your trip!
Nicolet National Forest
Nicolet National Forest is located in northern Wisconsin, about an hour and a half drive from Green Bay. The most common hiking trails are the North Country National Scenic Trail (NCT) and the Ice Age Trail (IAT). The NCT is 2,550 miles long and runs through seven states; it’s one of only eleven federally designated National Scenic Trails in the country. The IAT is 1,200 miles long and passes through eight counties in Wisconsin alone–it’s also part of a larger network known as America’s Great Trails Network.
Both trails offer camping options along the way if you plan on spending more than one night on your journey!
Apostle Islands National Lakeshore
Apostle Islands National Lakeshore is a national lakeshore located in northern Wisconsin, along the shores of Lake Superior. The park encompasses 21 islands with sandy beaches, dramatic cliffs and rocky shores. Hiking trails through forests and prairies offer views of wildlife like moose or deer as well as spectacular scenery that changes with each season.
Devil’s Doorway State Natural Area (Vilas County)
Devil’s Doorway State Natural Area is located in Vilas County, about a 30-minute drive from Eagle River and Lake Superior. The park is named for a rock formation that resembles a portal to hell. There are several hiking trails within the park, including one that takes you through Devil’s Doorway itself.
The trail map below shows some of the best places to hike in Wisconsin:
- Devil’s Doorway Trail – 1 mile loop (easy)
- Cedar Lake Trail – 4 miles round trip (moderate)
Johnson Creek Reservoir Recreation Area (Milwaukee County)
Johnson Creek Reservoir Recreation Area is a popular destination for boating and fishing. It’s also an excellent place to hike. The trail is roughly 3.5 miles long, rated moderate in difficulty, and has quite a few hills along the way.
Blue Mounds State Park (Dane County)
One of the most popular state parks in Wisconsin is Blue Mounds State Park, located in Dane County. It’s an excellent place for hiking, biking and horseback riding–there are more than 50 miles of trails available to visitors.
The park is open year-round, so you can get out there any time of year!
Copper Culture State Historical Park (Rock County)
Copper Culture State Historical Park is located in Rock County, and it’s one of the best places to go hiking in Wisconsin. The park has trails that range from easy to difficult, so you can choose how much of a challenge you want your hike to be.
If you’re looking for something exciting, try taking one of their guided tours through the ruins at Copper Culture State Historical Park! These tours are available by reservation only; call 608-848-2228 or email [email protected] if interested in setting up an appointment with one of their guides.
Copper Culture State Historical Park offers several different types of programs throughout their season, including nature walks and storytelling sessions led by park staff members who know everything there is about this fascinating place! You’ll learn all kinds of interesting facts about what life was like back when this site was occupied by Native Americans centuries ago (and maybe even catch sight of some wildlife).
Elroy-Sparta Trail State Recreation Trail (La Crosse and Monroe Counties)
The Elroy-Sparta Trail State Recreation Trail is 33.5 miles long and open to hikers, mountain bikers and horseback riders. The trail follows an abandoned railroad bed through the Baraboo Hills, Blue Mounds and the Kickapoo Valley. It is a single track trail that begins in Elroy at County Highway G (Elroy Road) and ends in Sparta at U.S. Highway 12 (Main Street).
You can go to Wisconsin and enjoy hiking
If you love hiking and want to enjoy nature while getting some exercise, Wisconsin has lots of great trails.
The best place for hiking is the north part of the state. There are many places where you can go on a hike and see beautiful scenery, such as:
- Apostle Islands National Lakeshore
- Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest
- Horicon Marsh State Wildlife Area
We hope you enjoyed reading about our favorite places to hike in Wisconsin. We know there are many more trails out there, so we encourage you to share your own favorites with us! If you’ve been looking for an excuse to plan a trip up north, this could be it.
