Wisconsin is often celebrated for its delightful food and drink such as beer, cheese, cream puffs, and kringle. However, hiking enthusiasts will discover a wealth of trails and diverse terrains throughout the Badger State. From short urban hikes along the Lake Michigan coastline in southeastern Wisconsin to family-friendly boardwalk trails “up north,” every hiker can find a perfect trail in this remarkable Midwestern state. Whether you prefer a quick, casual hike in a city park or aim for the legendary 1200-mile-long Ice Age Trail, you can always conclude your adventure with a refreshing beer and some hot fried cheese curds.

Seven Bridges Trail is a popular short hike near Milwaukee

1 mile (1.6km) round trip, 30 minutes, easy

Bordering the Lake Michigan shoreline in the suburb of South Milwaukee lies Grant Park, home to the renowned Seven Bridges Trail. This scenic route meanders through unpaved trails and stone paths, showcasing a bubbly ravine and tiny waterfalls, while ascending forested staircases. Each spring, wildflowers blanket the ground, and the fall offers stunning foliage, making it an ideal location for nature lovers. With several offshoots along the way, hikers can easily adjust their route length based on their mood or schedule.

Owing to its beauty and convenient access from the city, the trail tends to attract many visitors. Expect to see families with young children, couples on dates, wedding parties taking photos, and friends capturing moments for social media. To experience the tranquility of the trails, consider visiting on a weekday morning.

The Ice Age Trail is Wisconsin’s epic through-hike

1200 miles (1931km) one-way, several months, difficult

Over 12,000 years ago, a massive glacial ice flow began to sculpt the breathtaking Wisconsin landscape. Today, the Ice Age Trail, which spans 1200 miles, traces the edge of this historic glacier and stands as one of only 11 National Scenic Trails in the United States. Established in 1980, this picturesque trail resembles a horseshoe, guiding hikers from the Door County peninsula (known as the state’s “thumb”) south to Milwaukee, then west through areas near Madison, and ultimately across the northern parts of the state.

The trail consists of various sections, ranging from two-mile stretches in flat prairies to challenging 10-mile segments with significant elevation gain. Hikers often utilize the AllTrails app for detailed information on distances, elevation profiles, and photos shared by previous hikers. However, if you plan to undertake a lengthy section of the trail, especially one involving backcountry camping, it’s wise to consider acquiring the Ice Age Trail guidebook for effective trip planning.

Uplands Trail is Wisconsin’s most dog-friendly hike

2.5 miles (4km) loop, 1–2 hours, easy

Located in Wisconsin’s Driftless Area, Governor Dodge State Park is one of the state’s largest parks, encompassing over 5000 acres of steep hills, deep valleys, and 40 miles of hiking trails. It also grants access to the 40-mile-long Military Ridge State Trail, perfect for those seeking a longer hike (or bike ride, since it’s a multi-use trail). The Uplands Trail meanders through prairies, woodlands, and rolling hills, making it one of the park’s less-traveled paths, which means fewer people. This is a year-round hiking option, but it’s especially stunning in fall, as the forests ignite with vibrant red, yellow, and orange foliage.

What truly sets this trail apart for pet owners is its dog-friendly features. The park offers off-leash pet swim areas at each lake and designated pet picnic spots. Hikers can also bring their dogs on rented canoes and kayaks, and pets are permitted at the campsites.

Big Bay State Park Boardwalk Trail is perfect for young families and wheelchair-users

1.5 mile (3.2km) in-and-out, 1 hour, easy

Wisconsin’s northernmost park, Big Bay State Park, can only be accessed by ferry. The 20-minute ferry ride transports visitors (and cars) from the mainland city of Bayfield to Madeline Island, the largest of the 22 Apostle Islands forming the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore. The waterfront park is particularly popular for hiking, kayaking, and birding, featuring the mile-long Boardwalk Trail that meanders through the woods along the sandy shores of Lake Superior.

This well-marked trail is lined with interpretive signs and includes benches along the route for relaxation. Its flat and even surface accommodates wheelchairs, walkers, and strollers, while an accessible ramp connects the ADA-compliant campsite with the beach and picnic area. A beach-ready wheelchair with balloon tires is available for use in the park, but reservations may be necessary. Though longer, slightly more challenging dirt path hiking trails exist, they are not as easily navigable for wheelchair users.

Scuppernog Trail is the state’s best winter hike

5.3 miles (8.5km) loop, 2–3 hours, moderate

For those interested in exploring a delightful, slightly hilly section of the Ice Age Trail, the Scuppernog Trail located in the Southern Unit of Kettle Morraine State Forest is a must-visit. Conveniently situated about 40 minutes west of Milwaukee and 75 minutes east of Madison, it’s a perfect day trip destination, with campgrounds and remote backpacker shelters available.

While Scuppernog is a remarkable trail year-round, it transforms into a picture-perfect winter wonderland when covered in snow. Tiny pine trees along the route are often adorned with Christmas ornaments, adding charm to your winter hike.

The main loop spans around five miles, with several short trails crisscrossing through the area, providing flexibility to shorten or lengthen your hike. Furthermore, as this trail is part of the extensive 1200-mile Ice Age Trail, you could extend your adventure by incorporating adjacent sections. The Scuppernog trailhead features restrooms and informative signage detailing the length and difficulty of each route, ensuring a well-prepared experience.