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 NewsMedia Association. The column is accompanied by photos for use in print and online. The Discover Wisconsin logo can be downloaded here.
If you’re looking for your next autumn adventure, look no further than Wisconsin’s scenic trails! Across the state, from north to south, there are scenic trails that glow with rich shades of red, yellow, and gold. Come along and find the trail for you!
Northern Wisconsin
Head north for trails that are long, scenic, and surrounded by some of Wisconsin’s best fall colors! You can go a mile without seeing another person, and that’s exactly the kind of autumn adventure you may be looking for.
First up on the list of scenic trails is the Wild Rivers State Trail, which stretches over 100 miles through Douglas, Washburn, and Barron counties. Walking, biking, and even horseback riding are all welcome here! Along the way, you’ll pass by some of the most stunning scenery in the state, including the Namakagon River—a part of the St. Croix National Scenic Riverway. Come fall, this trail is a great place to take your time, enjoy the changing leaves, and make a day of it!
Central Wisconsin
In the central part of the state, there are even more scenic trails to discover! This region is easy to get to from just about anywhere, so no matter where you live in Wisconsin, you won’t be driving far.
A great place to begin is the Red Cedar State Trail, situated in Dunn County. Also a rail trail, it spans 14.5 miles through the majestic Red Cedar Valley. The trail winds past peaceful prairies, low bluffs, and unique rock formations, giving you gorgeous scenery to enjoy as you make your way through the changing season. The trail also passes through the Dunnville State Wildlife Area, so keep your eyes peeled! You might catch a deer, a heron, or other animals.
Southern Wisconsin
Our final stop on this list of scenic trails is Southern Wisconsin, home to some of the most accessible, yet still beautiful, trails in the state. These trails are easy to get to, easy to fit into a day, and still feel like an autumn adventure.
Without further ado, the last trail on the list is the White River State Trail, winding 19 miles through Walworth and Racine counties. It follows a former railroad corridor and offers truly incredible scenery that makes it super easy to slow down and enjoy a fall day outside.
The White River State Trail also sits within five miles of Lake Geneva and Big Foot Beach State Park, so you can turn your trail time into a full day of autumn adventure! And while you’re in Lake Geneva, we’d highly recommend checking out the Shore Path. Get a preview of it here. In Racine County, there’s even more to explore; here is a little inspiration before you go!
Wisconsin’s fall color is here, and all that’s left is to pick a route—whether you’re headed to Northern Wisconsin, through Central Wisconsin, or down south. Grab your gear and get ready to enjoy the season! Which scenic trail are you heading to first?
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Hailey Marien, 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).
