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Top 5 Best Hiking Trails in Northern Wisconsin

The Northwoods of Wisconsin are home to an abundance of pristine lakes, breathtaking wildlife, and peaceful hiking trails. The hiking trails in particular are responsible for attracting thousands of tourists every year, and for good reason.


From the mesmerizing waterfalls to the majestic forests, hiking in Northern Wisconsin has something for everyone to enjoy.


If you’re planning a trip to the Northwoods soon, check out our list of these top 5 rated hiking trails and see which ones need to be added to your itinerary.


train bridge
The final bridge before the Bearskin Trail ends in downtown Minocqua

The Bearskin Trail

The Bearskin Trail comes in at the very top of our list, not because our resort is located directly on this trail, but also because it's simply the best...that's it, that's all *wink*.


This popular trail is a family favorite due to the smooth, even granite terrain that follows along Bearskin Creek. Being built atop the old train tracks, this trail doesn’t have any steep hills. It's flat grade makes it suitable for people of all ages and activity levels.


While walking or biking the Bearskin Trail, guests of Nitschke's Northern Resort enjoy beautiful views of Minocqua while in the shade provided by the towering pine, oak, and maples trees along the path.


As a guest of the resort, you can take advantage of the onsite access to the trail, choosing to head left (south) into the heart of the woods or right (north-east) into the heart of downtown Minocqua.


bearskin trail and resort
Exiting off the Bearskin Trail into the resort

The Raven Trail

For a slightly tougher trail turn your attention to this 13.5 mile trail in the Lake Tomahawk area. This trail has a mixture of rolling hills and flat terrain that traverse around three lakes but is still considered an easy to moderate hike.


Hit this one up in the fall when the leaves begin to change for a breathtaking backdrop. Make sure to check out the family favorite boardwalk through the bog and bring the bug spray with you! Them mosquitos can be brutal!


Madeline Lake Trail

Next up on the list is this dog friendly trail. Not only are dogs allowed but you can also find some areas where they are allowed to be off their leash.


This trail is a little more off the beaten path than the others so you can expect plenty of solitude and quiet while you explore Mother Nature.


trail in Northwoods of Wisconsin
Image courtesy of Wisconsintrailguide.com

McNaughton Lake Trail

If you’re looking for a multi-purpose trail good for cross country skiing, snowshoeing, and hiking, look no further than McNaughton Lake Trail.


This 5.5 mile trail traverses along three lakes and while you may encounter some hills, the terrain is mostly flat. This trail is suitable for kids and beginners alike.


Escanaba Trail

If the scenic route is high on your priority list, this trail is for you. The Escanaba trail is situated among several lakes. Take the Pallette lake trailhead to access the sandy swimming beach or take the red and blue trails to find the swimming hole found on Lost Canoe Lake. This trail is moderately challenging so may be suited best for those with higher endurance levels.


snowy trail system Wisconsin
Image courtesy of WisconsinTrailGuides.com

Come explore a trail around the Northwoods of Wisconsin with its unparalleled beauty and crisp forest air. There’s a trail suited just for you! And when you're ready to cozy up in your cabin after a day on the trails, Nitschke's Northern Resort has just the accommodations for you!


Call us today to find out more and to book your next Northwoods vacation.



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