Fans of silent sports—hiking, biking, paddling, and more—will find lots to love all year long in Vilas County. From stunning views on hiking trails in the spring to picture-perfect lakes open to paddling in the summer to snow-covered skiing and snowshoeing trails in the winter, there’s a lot to see and do in Vilas County if you’re looking for quieter recreational pursuits.
Spring
As the weather warms up in the Northwoods, it’s the perfect time to explore Vilas County’s walking and hiking trails. The region is home to nearly 100 multi-use trails, and exploring these routes in spring brings stunning vistas of shimmering lakes and blooming trees and flowers (not to mention the soundtrack of the birds and other animals returning to northern Wisconsin).
- 5 places for an unforgettable hike in Vilas County
- Explore Vilas County’s parks and natural areas
- Spring trails you shouldn’t miss
If you’re headed out on the trails, don’t forget to download the free Map It Vilas County trails app, which helps users find trails by activity, amenities, and more, and can also be used as a navigational aid (even without a cell signal).
Summer
Summer is the perfect time to visit Vilas County—we’re home to more than a thousand lakes that offer great opportunities for canoeing and kayaking, woodland trails that attract everyone from casual riders to adventure-seeking mountain bikers, beautiful weather, and friendly places to stay.
- Your guide to biking in Vilas County
- All about the Heart of Vilas County Paved Bike Trail System
- Lakes and rivers to explore by boat, canoe & kayak
- Where to paddle the Wisconsin River
Fall
Don’t miss the annual color show in Vilas County. Every fall, the Northwoods’ forests turn stunning shades of red, yellow, and orange, and fall color aficionados return here every year to take in the eye-catching scenery on the area’s hiking and biking trails or via a calm paddle on a serene northern Wisconsin lake.
Winter
Silent-sports enthusiasts will find plenty to love in the snowier months, too, as Vilas County’s woods and forests welcome winter bikers, cross-country skiers, and snowshoers to explore miles and miles of serene solitude.
