We’ve spent plenty of time indoors over the last year or so. Now’s the time to reacquaint ourselves with the great outdoors. There’s no better way to do that than heading down to Washburn County, Wisconsin, and hitting the hiking trails.
Washburn County is an easy commute from other parts of Wisconsin and Minnesota. Hiking in Washburn County is the perfect way to blow the cobwebs away.
Here’s our rundown of the ten best hiking trails in Wisconsin.
1. Beaver Brook Trail
Beaver Brook Trail is a dog-friendly trail, just over 6 miles long, that takes you through the beautiful Beaver Brook Wildlife Area. Expect to see streams, lakes, and springs. It’s also a trip through time, with the remnants of old homesteads and an out-of-commission logging dam visible on the route.
2. Trego Nature Trail
The Trego Nature Trail may be relatively short, coming in at a very manageable 2.6 miles. But what it lacks in length, it makes up for in wildlife. It’s very accessible for hikers of all levels, and dogs accompany you on a leash.
Wildlife you could spot there include deer, foxes, bobcats, and otters. All Trails reviewers loved the ease of the trail, the rewarding views, but warn you to take your bug spray! It’s also great for snowshoeing in the winter.
3. Hunt Hill Trails
Hunt Hill Trails are highly recommended for families. It’s a sanctuary for beavers and otters and is frequented by osprey and loons. The Bog Trail is a short trail that is perfect for capturing the attention of younger members of the family without tiring them out.
Altogether there are 13 miles of loops, so there is plenty to keep adult hikers occupied for several hours. Expect to trek through dense forests and wild prairies in this highly varied landscape.
4. Sawyer Brook Springs Trail
If you’re new to hiking or just looking for a short one, the one-mile Sawyer Brook Springs Trail is well worth a visit. It comprises three loops and is mainly designed for cross-country skiing. But even when the snow has long gone, it still has splendid views to offer.
5. Heartwood Trails
Located right in the beautiful Heartwood Resort are the Heartwood Trails. Guests are welcome to wanter the 16 miles of trails, taking you past lakes, through woodland, and along a river.
Winter treks are also possible. There are snowshoe and snowmobile trails, not to mention cross-country skiing options.
6. Wild Rivers State Trail
The Wild Rivers State Trail snakes its way 104 miles through three counties. We’re not recommending you tackle the entire thing! But if you’re thinking about where to go hiking in Washburn Country, the Sarona and Trego sections are highly recommended.
This trail is part of the nation’s history. It follows the route of the now-abandoned Chicago and North Western railroad. It passes through dense woodland and has creek and river crossings. Open year-round, it’s ideal for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing in the winter.
7. Nordic Woods Trail
If you can’t make it to a Nordic country anytime soon, don’t worry. We’ve got something just as beautiful right on our doorstep – the Nordic Woods Trail. Dotted with small lakes and bogs, the dense pine forest is equal to anything you’ll see overseas.
There are also maple and birch trees on show along this 6.9-mile-long trail. It’s perfect for hiking, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing.
8. Ice Age Trail-Grassy Lake Segment
The Ice Age Trail is a major hiking trail running a staggering 1,200 miles through the state of Wisconsin. The Grassy Lake Segment in Washburn County is 7.2 miles in length and takes you deep into the Wisconsin wilderness.
This is a trail for more experienced hikers and those who are able to negotiate a range of terrain. Expect some boggy patches, steep hills, and dense growth to wade through along your way.
At the same time, expect to be rewarded with a real feeling of isolation and getting back to nature. There are also some stunning views of the rivers and lakes that dot this trail. Oh, and make sure to pack the bug spray and consider an insect net.
9. Trego Lake Trail
Whether you’re strapping on your hiking boots, skis, or snowshoes, the Trego Lake Trail is a great choice for a hike year-round. It’s rated as a hard trail due to the more challenging loop in the middle section.
Take in the dramatic views where dense forest meets sparkling lake as you traverse this 2.7-mile trail. Dogs may accompany you on a leash. They, like you, will enjoy the scenic loops winding through the woodland.
You’ll catch regular glimpses of the Trego Flowage, which forms a section of the St. Croix National Scenic Riverway.
10. Totogatic Trail
The Totogatic Trail not only sounds cool, but it also offers awesome skiing and hiking too. Flat sections and rolling hills feature on the 5-mile trail as it meanders its way through the woodland. Look out for stands of red pine, white pine, and tamarack.
There are three trails – A, B, and C, with C being by far the longest. There are also shortcut trails on the A and B loops. The trail is groomed and ready to welcome winter visitors for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.
Ready to Hit the Hiking Trails in Wisconsin?
Whether you’re a beginner or seasoned hiker, these top Wisconsin hiking trails have something to offer you. Immerse yourself in nature. Breathe in the crystal clear air and enjoy the majesty of the great outdoors!
Experience these trails while staying in comfort at the Heartwood Resort. Nestled in 700 acres of pristine Northwoods forest, it’s the perfect place for your dream Wisconsin getaway.
Heartwood was formerly a privately owned resort that was not open to the public. Now you can enjoy all its amenities, including the beautiful Hoinville Lake. And the best hiking trails in Wisconsin are on your doorstep.