The 10 Most Scenic Hiking Trails in All of Wisconsin

Wisconsin is more than “America’s Dairyland.” Hiking trails throughout the state offer stunning views of natural waterfalls, expansive lakes, unique rock formations, eerie tunnels, and much more. So, put on your most comfortable walking shoes and discover the most scenic hiking trails in all of Wisconsin.

1. Ice Age National Scenic Trail  

One of the most scenic hiking trails in all of Wisconsin is the 1,200-mile-long Ice Age National Scenic Trail. The trail takes hikers from the Minnesota border to the Potawatomi State Park on Lake Michigan. It traverses the state’s most scenic areas, following the perimeter of the last continental glacier known as the Wisconsin glaciation. Travel through remarkable places such as Devil’s Lake State Park and Horicon Marsh in the two to three months it takes to complete the challenging trek.

2. Bearskin State Trail

The Bearskin State Trail is named for the surrounding Bearskin Creek. It used to be a railroad corridor that transported white pine logs from northern Wisconsin to the Midwest. Now, the popular and moderately challenging 21.5-mile trail between Minocqua and Tomahawk is made with compact granite, so outdoor enthusiasts can hike and bike on it year-round and then ride their snowmobiles in the winter. Enjoy the beautiful Northwood forest filled with trees, lakes, creeks, and abundant wildlife.

3. Lake Geneva Shore Path

The Shore Path in Walworth County takes hikers 26 miles along the shore of Lake Geneva. On one side, you can see sailboats gliding through the tranquil water while there are beautifully manicured lawns and their historic estates on the other. But the sunsets are the most impressive view. Dogs are welcome, but bicycles, skateboards, and motorized vehicles are prohibited. Completing the Shore Path takes about 8-10 hours, so you should do it in sections.

4. Elroy-Sparta State Trail 

The Elroy-Sparta State Trail is the first rail-to-trail in the U.S. and one of the most scenic trails in all of Wisconsin. The trail features five small towns and three rock tunnels. Furthermore, hikers and bicyclists pass prairies, rolling farmland, and wetlands along the 32.5-mile route. The dark tunnels, spanning more than 1,600 feet, draw much attention. The tunnels are cold, dark, and dripping with water – a stark difference from the colorful journey from Elroy to Sparta.

5. North Country Scenic Trail and Doughboys Loop

The North Country Scenic Trail and Doughboys Loop are located outside the city of Mellen within Copper Falls State Park. The easy 1.6-mile trail only takes about 40 minutes to complete but offers an incredible view of the park’s waterfalls. The Doughboys Loop follows the Bad River and Tyler Forks, taking hikers to Copper Falls, Brownstone Falls, and the Tyler Forks Cascades. Hikers also enjoy the mature hardwoods, including some of the oldest trees in the region. The entire North Country National Scenic Trail spans the distance from Vermont to North Dakota, but only about 4 miles pass through the famous Copper Falls State Park.

6. Meyers Beach Sea Cave Trail

You can find one of the most scenic trails in all of Wisconsin outside of Cornucopia in Bayfield County. The Meyers Beach Sea Cave Trail is about 4.5 miles long and includes a boardwalk that covers most of the first mile. Hikers see the world-famous winter ice caves in the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore. Despite the relatively short distance, the path is rugged, with streams and steep slopes. However, the moderately challenging trek is worth it because you see your first sea cave after 2 miles. There are also stairs and decked lookouts offering a bird’s eye view of the lake.

7. Eagle Trail

The challenging Eagle Trail in Peninsula State Park takes hikers along one of Door County’s natural treasures. The 2-mile loop descends over 200 feet from the bluffs that used to be the Eagle Bluff Stone Co. site to the terrace built by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s. Cedar forests surround the trail. You can hear black-throated blue warblers, pileated woodpeckers, and, of course, eagles from the trees. Watch your step as you admire the rock outcroppings created by the Niagara Escarpment because of the rocks and exposed roots covering the ground. You can also explore caves, the Green Bay, and the mighty lookout tower.

8. Balanced Rock Trail

Balanced Rock symbolizes Wisconsin’s premier Devil’s Lake State Park in Baraboo. The park is situated along the Ice Age National Scenic Trail and is known for its 360-acre lake and 500-foot bluffs. Despite being only .4 miles, the Balanced Rock Trail is a demanding workout. The climb is steep, with more than a 600-foot elevation gain. But you don’t have to complete the hike to see the famous Balanced Rock. You will see it once you reach two-thirds of the vertical trek. Once you reach the unique rock, you get a full view of Devil’s Lake, the South Bluff, and South Shore Beach.

9. Devil’s Doorway Loop Trail

Stick around at Devil’s Lake State Park to complete another one of the most scenic hiking trails in all of Wisconsin. The Devil’s Doorway Loop Trail in Devil’s Lake State Park features the most recognized rock feature in the state. The moderately challenging 2-mile loop is short but popular, so expect to hike alongside many people. It takes you by Balanced Rock and the impressive Devil’s Doorway. Watch your step as you climb the quartzite rock that serves as the trail’s steps to the many vistas.

10. Bay View and Woods Trail Loop 

The Bay View and Woods Trail Loop in Big Bay State Park is an easy, 3.1-mile loop on the eastern side of Madeline Island, the largest of the Apostle Islands archipelago. The loop has a little bit of everything, including campgrounds, serene woods with hemlocks, a lagoon, and the beautiful Lake Superior. The Bay View Trail also follows the shoreline of Big Bay Point. Depending on the time of day, you can spot deer and other wildlife and a stunning sunset.

Summary of the 10 Most Scenic Hiking Trails in All of Wisconsin