It’s a wonderful time of year to explore Vilas County’s trails—the weather is comfortable, the scenery is unparalleled, and there are lots of routes to choose from. Here’s a look at five trails you shouldn’t miss on your next trip to northern Wisconsin.
Before you head out, be sure to check out the free Map It Vilas County trails app. It will help you navigate dozens of different Vilas County trails and works even without a cell signal (which you might not always find in the Northwoods).
Awassa Nature Preserve & Hiking Trail, St. Germain
This easy mix of trails loops through stands of mature pines, oaks and maples. There’s also a .5-mile interpretive nature trail that’s wheelchair accessible. Loop lengths range from .5 miles to 2.1 miles.
Spectacle Lake–Kentuck Lake Trail, Phelps
This is another nice, level trail – part of the trail follows the old Thunder Lake Railroad bed, which was used in the early 1900s to transport logs to the sawmill. The trail runs 2.5 miles between the two lakes.
Manitowish Waters Trail, Manitowish Waters
This paved trail runs from the Community Center grounds at US HWY 51 and Airport Road to the trails of the North Lakeland Discovery Center. The trail loops around the west and north shore of Rest Lake and runs 3.6 miles. It’s great place for an easy walk.
Lac du Flambeau Trail, Lac du Flambeau
You can pick up this trail in downtown Lac du Flambeau and follow it through the surrounding lake country. The trail runs around Flambeau Lake and Pokegama Lake and the trails total 17.9 miles in length.
Catherine Wolter Wilderness Area, Presque Isle
This beautiful natural area includes more than 2,000 acres of unspoiled wilderness. The wilderness area includes rich wildlife and 15 wild lakes and ponds. The preserve features a mix of winding trails of various lengths.
