A weekly column written by the staff of Discover Wisconsin highlights things to do and see throughout the State of Wisconsin, and is made available for publication to members of the Wisconsin Newspaper Association. The column is accompanied by photos for use in print and online. The Discover Wisconsin logo can be downloaded here.
Ready to lace up your hiking boots and soak up the best of Wisconsin’s wild side? From the rocky cliffs and waterfalls up north to the rolling prairies and dramatic bluffs down south, Wisconsin’s summer trails are calling your name. Whether you crave lake views that go on forever, peaceful forest paths, or quirky geological wonders, these hikes are the ones you absolutely can’t miss in 2025.
Northern Trails
Let’s start up north, where adventure is always in the air. If you find yourself near La Pointe on Madeline Island, don’t skip the Bayview Trail at Big Bay State Park. This easy-going route winds along rocky cliffs and through magical sea caves—an 8.8-mile round trip. Over in Mellen, the Morgan Falls Trail is a 1.1-mile gem tucked into the Chequamegon National Forest. It’s a moderate hike with a big payoff: a gorgeous waterfall and lush forest views.
Craving even more northern magic? Head to Cornucopia in Bayfield County for the Lost Creek Falls Trail. This 2-mile moderate hike features charming bridges and the chance to walk right behind a 15-foot waterfall—talk about the ultimate picture spot! Just east of town, the Meyers Beach Sea Cave Trail in the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore is a 4.5-mile adventure that’ll have you weaving along the lakeshore and staring at breathtaking sea caves.
Central Trails
Central Wisconsin is packed with its own one-of-a-kind treasures. In Stevens Point, the Green Circle Trail is a 27-mile loop through forests, parks, and along the Wisconsin and Plover Rivers. Don’t worry if you’re not up for the full circuit—you can tackle it in smaller segments for a custom adventure. The Wild Goose State Trail, stretching between Dodge and Fond du Lac Counties, hugs the edge of the world-famous Horicon Marsh. It’s a birdwatcher’s paradise, so keep your eyes peeled for feathered friends! And if you love a bit of history with your hike, the Wiouwash State Trail follows an old railroad corridor and offers over 40 miles of scenic walking across four counties.
Southern Trails
Heading south, the trails just keep getting better. The Verona segment of the Ice Age National Scenic Trail is a 6.5-mile journey through woods, fields, and past glacial kettle ponds—a real showcase of Wisconsin’s ancient landscape. The Military Ridge State Trail connects Verona and Dodgeville, winding through the southern reaches of Governor Dodge and Blue Mound State Parks. And if you want jaw-dropping views, Devil’s Lake State Park is your go-to with 29 miles of trails ranging from easy strolls to heart-pumping climbs.
Don’t forget to wander along the Lake Michigan shoreline near Mequon and Port Washington, where Lion’s Den Gorge Nature Preserve awaits. Boardwalks, beaches, wetlands—this “ecological jewel” has it all, and every trail is a treat for the senses.
Eastern & Western Trails
Now, let’s talk east and west. In Door County, the Eagle Trail at Peninsula State Park is a 2-mile loop that’s as challenging as it is rewarding. You’ll be treated to dramatic views of the Niagara Escarpment and Eagle Bluff, and if you’re up for it, climb the 60-foot Eagle Tower for an incredible bird’s-eye view. Down at Kohler-Andrae State Park, you can wander among rare sand dunes or stroll the sandy beaches of Lake Michigan, one of the last natural preserves along the lake.
Finally, don’t miss the Driftless Area out west. The Kickapoo Valley Reserve is a hiker’s playground with trails for every skill level, while Wildcat Mountain State Park boasts over 20 miles of paths, including the easy and scenic Ice Cave Trail (a must-see in any season).
From the wild shores of Lake Superior to the rolling bluffs of the Driftless Area, Wisconsin’s best summer hikes are waiting for you in 2025. So grab your map, rally your hiking buddies, and get ready to make some unforgettable memories on the trail!
Hailey Rose, third-generation and granddaughter of Dick Rose, writes for the nation’s longest-running tourism TV show, Discover Wisconsin. Watch the show online at DiscoverWisconsin.com. Follow Discover Wisconsin on Facebook (facebook.com/discoverwisconsin), Instagram (instagram.com/discoverwisconsin), and TikTok (tiktok.com/discoverwisconsin).
