Patsy Lake Trail

Yes, this trail is considered an excellent option for beginners. It's rated as easy to intermediate, often described as a "great beginner loop" due to its minimal elevation changes and generally smooth surface.

The Patsy Lake Trail is approximately 12.4 kilometers (7.7 miles) long. Most hikers can expect to complete the loop in about 3 hours and 10 minutes, depending on their pace and how often they stop to enjoy the scenery.

The trail features a fairly wide and smooth singletrack surface, primarily composed of grass and dirt. While there's little overall elevation change, you'll encounter some gentle rolling hills, bogs, and interesting bridges. It winds through a beautiful and diverse forest environment.

The Patsy Lake Trail is a loop trail. It circles around Patsy Lake, offering continuous scenic views without needing to retrace your steps.

You can access the trail and find parking at the Wilson Lake Trailhead. This is a convenient starting point for your hike.

The Patsy Lake Trail is located within the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest. While there isn't a specific hiking permit required for this trail, some activities or areas within the National Forest may require a pass or fee. It's always a good idea to check the official forest service website for the latest regulations regarding passes or permits for the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest before your visit.

Yes, dogs are permitted on the Patsy Lake Trail. Please ensure your dog is on a leash and that you clean up after them to help keep the trail enjoyable for everyone.

The trail is beautiful year-round. Spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures and vibrant foliage. While primarily used for hiking and mountain biking, it's also utilized for backcountry snow grooming in winter, making it accessible for winter activities too. Summer is also popular, but be prepared for warmer weather and potential insects.

Along the route, you'll enjoy scenic views of Patsy Lake and the surrounding diverse forest. The trail also connects to other notable natural features like Rock Lake and Wilson Lake. Keep an eye out for interesting bridges and bogs as you traverse the path.

Yes, this trail is an integral part of the larger CAMBA (Chequamegon Area Mountain Bike Association) trail system. The route also passes through sections of the Namekagon Trail — Patsy Lake Segment and the Namekagon Trail, and is utilized by sections of the Rock Lake IMBA Epic.