Stunning Wisconsin Hikes Off the Beaten Path

If you are in search of unspoiled beauty, wilderness, wildlife, and serene surroundings to enjoy with loved ones, consider a hike on one of many gorgeous nature trails in Wisconsin. Here are some one-of-a-kind trails off the beaten path to explore together on your next Wisconsin getaway. 

Buena Vista Walking/Hiking Trail – Alma

Hike the Buena Vista Trail that winds 500 feet above Alma and the Mississippi River to the Buena Vista Overlook to take in a gorgeous panoramic view of the flowing water and rolling countryside. And keep your eyes peeled for soaring bald eagles that are often spotted here!

CamRock Park – Cambridge

Located between Cambridge and Rockdale, CamRock is a 422-acre park that contains fantastic trail systems for hiking, mountain biking and cross-country skiing in winter. Whether you hike, bike or ski, you and your crew can expect to be immersed in unspoiled scenery and to come across a variety of species of birds.

Ed’s Lake National Recreation Trail – Laona

Follow Ed's Lake National Recreation Trail along former railroad grades to traverse through the peaceful woods and hills of Wisconsin’s Northwoods. Be sure to stop for a selfie overlooking Ed’s Lake from the Adirondack-style shelter along the Birch Loop—one of three loops that make up the trail. 

Gerstberger Pines Nature Trail – Rib Lake

The Gerstberger Pines Nature Trail is a ¾ mile interpretive trail located on the picturesque 20-acre park. The trail is a carefully preserved place home to a unique mixture of white pine, red oak, basswood, yellow birch and hemlock where you and your group can learn about the area’s plants, trees, flowers, animals and overall history of the forest along the way.

Mascoutin Valley State Trail – Ripon

Walk, run or bike the Macoutin Valley State Trail—a 22-mile trail with a crushed limestone base that passes a wide range of scenery from rolling farmland to peaceful prairies to woods and wetlands. Look for native wildlife such as birds and deer at the scenic Eldorado Marsh Wildlife Area and the Rush Lake Marsh area along the way. If you and your friends get thirsty, stop at Vines & Rushes Winery that’s right off the trail! 

Oxbo Trail – Fifield 

The rustic Oxbo Trail is located in the Flambeau River State Forest. Follow the hilly eight-mile trek that's open to hikers and snowshoers in winter. Here, you and your crew can experience the beauty and tranquility for which the unspoiled Wisconsin Northwoods area is best known.

Petrifying Springs Park – Kenosha

With more than 350-acres and a plethora of activities including bike trails, lighted sledding hills and even a beer garden, hiking is just one way to enjoy the beautiful sights of Petrifying Springs Park. The park is home to one of the state’s natural hardwood forests, and the nature trails are the perfect place to view spectacular fall color. Bring your pup to the dog park here for even more fun!

Pipke Park – Presque Isle

Circling two ponds, the beautiful trails in Pipke Park near the town of Presque Isle are the perfect setting for a relaxing stroll with family. The ponds were used during the logging era, but today are enjoyed by fishermen, ice skaters, and other recreational enthusiasts that love to enjoy the stunning scenery year-round.

Trego Nature Trail – Trego

Enjoy diverse wildlife and plants along the Trego Nature Trail. This 3.5-mile trail running alongside the dazzling Namekagon River offers the opportunity to potentially see deer, squirrels, foxes, otters, bobcats, and a variety of species of birds. Enjoy the beauty of Washburn County in its purest form and enjoy an outdoor adventure with family and friends.

Discover more fresh air outings on these easy hikes for new adventurers. 

Ready for refreshing outdoor fun? Check trail conditions and know before you go with the Wisconsin Trail Report.