The best family-friendly hikes and walks in Bearskin State Park Trail
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Family friendly hiking trails in Bearskin State Park Trail traverse a former railroad corridor, offering a relatively flat and accessible path through Wisconsin's scenic Northwoods. The region is characterized by numerous glacial lakes, dense forests of oak, maple, and evergreen, and the meandering Bearskin Creek. Hikers will encounter converted railroad trestles crossing waterways, providing unique viewpoints over the landscape. This area provides a diverse botanical experience with sections featuring pine forests and spruce-tamarack bogs.
Best family friendly hiking trails in Bearskin State Park Trail
- The most popular family friendly hiking route is Minocqua Trestle Bridge – Bearskin State Park Trail loop from Minocqua, a 4.1 miles (6.6 km) trail that takes 1 hour 41 minutes to complete, featuring views of Minocqua Lake from a historic trestle.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Raven Blue Loop, an easy 3.0 miles (4.8 km) path. This route leads through dense Northwoods forests, offering a serene experience.
- Local hikers also love the Clear Lake Trail, a 1.4 miles (2.3 km) trail leading through varied forest types and past Clear Lake, often completed in about 36 minutes.
- Hiking in Bearskin State Park Trail is defined by glacial lakes, dense Northwoods forests, and converted railroad trestles. The network offers options for different ability levels, from short, easy walks to longer, moderate excursions.
- The routes in Bearskin State Park Trail are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 3.0 stars from over 1 review. More than 25 hikers have used komoot to explore Bearskin State Park Trail's varied terrain.
Last updated: July 7, 2026
31.6km
08:05
110m
150m
The Bearskin State Trail invites you to step back in time on a former railroad corridor, winding through a beautiful Northwoods forest. You'll traverse a mostly flat, compacted granite path, enjoying views of lakes, creeks, and unique spruce/tamarack bogs, with the impressive Minocqua Trestle offering a standout scenic moment over the water. Keep an eye out for local wildlife like deer and bald eagles as you explore this serene Wisconsin landscape.
This 19.6-mile (31.6 km) hiking route, rated difficult due to its considerable length, involves a gentle 377 feet (115 metres) of elevation gain and typically takes about 8 hours and 5 minutes. While long, its accessible terrain makes it suitable for a full day's adventure for many hikers. Remember that a state trail pass is needed for cyclists, and planning for adequate water is wise, especially on warm days.
What truly sets this trail apart is its historical significance, preserving a late 19th-century logging railroad line. You'll encounter more than a dozen interpretive signs along the way, detailing the railway's past and the local area's heritage. The 16 converted railroad trestles, particularly those over Bearskin Creek, are engineering marvels that add character and unique viewpoints to your journey.
18.0km
04:36
70m
70m
The Bearskin State Trail invites you into the serene beauty of Wisconsin's Northwoods, offering a unique journey along a former railroad corridor. You'll hike through dense, shaded forests of pine, spruce, and maple, with the path often feeling like a natural tunnel. The route's most striking features are its 16 converted railroad trestle bridges, especially the impressive 375-foot span over Minocqua Lake, providing scenic views over the water and surrounding wetlands. This trail is a fantastic way to experience the region's natural features and spot local wildlife like bald eagles and deer.
Planning your visit to the Bearskin State Trail is straightforward, as its generally flat and compacted granite terrain makes it very accessible for most. The full 11.2-mile (18.0 km) hike, with a modest 214 feet (65 metres) of elevation gain, is rated moderate and typically takes around 4 hours and 36 minutes. While the trail is family friendly, remember that a state trail pass is required for certain activities, so it's wise to check ahead. Early mornings are often the best time to hike for cooler temperatures and quieter paths.
What truly sets the Bearskin State Trail apart is its blend of natural immersion and historical context. As a rail-trail conversion, it offers a consistent, gentle grade that makes for comfortable hiking. Interpretive signs along the northern sections provide fascinating insights into the area's logging and railroad history, enriching your experience beyond just the physical activity. This trail is a prime example of Northwoods immersion, with limited development and ample opportunities to connect with nature.
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3.0
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7
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
1
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2.30km
00:36
10m
10m
The Clear Lake Trail offers a delightful, easy stroll through the American Legion State Forest, providing peaceful views of Clear Lake itself. This short route is perfect for a quick escape into nature, where you can enjoy the quiet surroundings and the calm waters of the lake. It's a very accessible path, making it suitable for all ages and fitness levels looking for a gentle outdoor experience.
Planning your visit to the Clear Lake Trail is straightforward, with parking generally available at the trailhead within the American Legion State Forest. Given its easy difficulty and short duration of about 35 minutes, you can comfortably fit this 1.4-mile (2.3 km) hike into almost any part of your day. It's an ideal choice for a spontaneous outing without needing extensive preparation.
With only 37 feet (11 metres) of elevation gain, the Clear Lake Trail is notable for its minimal effort requirement, making it a fantastic option for beginners or families with small children. The forest setting provides a refreshing atmosphere, offering a simple yet rewarding connection with nature in Oneida County.
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4.77km
01:16
50m
40m
If you're seeking a tranquil escape into Wisconsin's natural beauty, the Raven Blue Loop delivers a delightful experience. This easy 3.0-mile (4.8 km) hiking trail winds through serene hemlock forests, offering a peaceful journey with occasional rooty and rocky sections that add to its natural charm. You'll catch picturesque glimpses of Clear Lake, Inkpot Lake, or Hemlock Lake, making it a perfect outing for families or anyone new to hiking.
Planning your visit to the Raven Blue Loop is straightforward. The trail is part of the extensive Northern Highland/American Legion State Forest, providing ample opportunity for immersion in nature. Pets are permitted on the trail during snow-free periods, as long as they are leashed and their waste is properly disposed of. This short, 1 hour and 15 minute loop is best enjoyed during the warmer seasons, allowing for comfortable exploration of the forest.
Beyond the immediate trail, the Raven Blue Loop is nestled within a massive state forest spanning over 223,000 acres, home to 900 lakes and a rich diversity of bird species, including bald eagles, ospreys, and loons. This makes the area a prime spot for birdwatching and experiencing Wisconsin's abundant wildlife. The loop is also part of a larger Raven Trail system, offering other routes of varying lengths and difficulties if you're looking to extend your adventure.
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Tips from the Community
Named after Bearskin Creek that runs alongside, this trail was formerly a railroad corridor and now spans 21.5 miles between Minocqua and Tomahawk. Passing through parks and offering views of the water, it provides a scenic route as you go.
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Katherine Lake spans 524 acres and offers visitors access via a public boat landing. Fishing is common here, and fishermen try for musky, panfish, largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, and walleye.
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This area, once a major logging area, featured a trail that served as a primary route in and out of the region. Today, the trestle bridge marks the beginning of the Bearskin Trail, a popular destination for hikers, runners, and bikers, providing excellent views of Minocqua Lake.
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Hiking through the Northern Highlands/American Legion State Forest is a great way to dive into Wisconsin's natural beauty. Open daily from 8 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. and spanning 223,283 acres, the forest features 900 lakes and 18 family campgrounds. Hikers can spot 244 bird species, including common nesting pairs of bald eagles, ospreys, and loons.
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This area, once a major logging area, featured a trail that served as a primary route in and out of the region. Today, the trestle bridge marks the beginning of the Bearskin Trail, a popular destination for hikers, runners, and bikers, providing excellent views of Minocqua Lake.
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Named after Bearskin Creek that runs alongside, this trail was formerly a railroad corridor and now spans 21.5 miles between Minocqua and Tomahawk. Passing through parks and offering views of the water, it provides a scenic route as you go.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many family-friendly hiking trails are available in Bearskin State Park Trail?
There are 10 family-friendly hiking routes available in the Bearskin State Park Trail area. These range from easy strolls perfect for young children to more moderate options for active families.
What kind of terrain can we expect on family hikes in Bearskin State Park Trail?
The Bearskin State Park Trail is a former railroad corridor, so you can expect a relatively flat path with a compacted granite surface. This makes it suitable for walking and hiking, and many sections are stroller-friendly. You'll be walking through dense Northwoods forests and over several converted railroad trestles.
Are there any easy, shorter loop options suitable for families with young children?
Yes, for a pleasant and easy loop, consider the Minocqua Trestle Bridge – Bearskin State Park Trail loop from Minocqua. It's just over 6.5 km and offers a great introduction to the area's scenic beauty.
Can we bring our dog on the trails?
Yes, the Bearskin State Park Trail is generally dog-friendly. Always ensure your dog is on a leash and that you clean up after them to maintain a pleasant experience for all visitors and protect the local wildlife.
What are some natural features or landmarks we might see along the trails?
The trail is renowned for its natural beauty. You'll cross numerous converted railroad trestles, including several over the picturesque Bearskin Creek, and one particularly long one over Minocqua Lake. The path winds through dense Northwoods forests, offering glimpses of glacial lakes and diverse plant life. Keep an eye out for interpretive signs detailing the area's history.
Is there a good time of year to visit Bearskin State Park Trail with family?
The trail offers beauty in all seasons. Spring brings fresh greenery and blooming wildflowers, while summer provides lush forests and pleasant temperatures. Autumn is particularly stunning with vibrant fall foliage. Winter offers opportunities for snowshoeing or cross-country skiing, though trail conditions should be checked. For family hikes, late spring through early fall generally offers the most comfortable weather.
Where can we park when visiting Bearskin State Park Trail?
Parking is available at various access points along the trail. For specific trailhead parking information, it's best to consult the official Wisconsin DNR website for the Bearskin State Park Trail, which often provides detailed maps and access points. You can find more information at dnr.wisconsin.gov.
Are there any trails that offer a good chance to see wildlife?
The diverse habitats along the Bearskin State Park Trail support a rich array of wildlife. Hiking through the dense forests and along the lakes and creeks, especially during quieter times of day, increases your chances of spotting eagles, osprey, deer, raccoons, bald eagles, and loons.
What is the easiest and shortest family-friendly hike available?
The Clear Lake Trail is an excellent choice for an easy and short family hike. It's just over 2.3 km and offers a gentle experience through the natural surroundings.
Are there any longer, but still family-friendly, options for a more extended outing?
For families looking for a longer adventure, the Bearskin State Trail offers a moderate 18 km section. While longer, its relatively flat grade makes it manageable for families seeking a full day out on the trail.
What makes the Bearskin State Park Trail unique for family hiking?
The trail's unique combination of a relatively flat, former railroad grade, numerous scenic trestle bridges over lakes and creeks, and immersion in the dense Northwoods forests makes it special. It offers a blend of natural beauty, historical interest, and accessibility that is ideal for families to explore together.
Most popular routes in Bearskin State Park Trail
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