The best family-friendly hikes and walks in Vilas County

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.

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.

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.

Hike the 41.0-mile Heart of Vilas County Bike Trail through Northern Highland-American Legion State Forest, passing scenic lakes and forests