Editor's note: The following sponsored content was provided by the Wisconsin Department of Tourism.
It’s time to lace up those hiking boots and put the smart phones aside – unless it’s to snap the perfect scenic Instagram picture, of course. With thousands of miles of hiking trails, Wisconsin knows how to deliver an unparalleled outdoor experience via foot for friends and family to enjoy, any season. Don’t be surprised if you stumble across a hidden waterfall, panoramic vista or scenic overlook – that’s just part of the experience.
Check out these five can’t-miss hiking trails for you to trek.
1. LaSalle Falls – Florence
Start your hike in Florence County at LaSalle Falls, the highest and most impressive waterfall in the area. At 22 feet tall, it sits on the Pine River, an undeveloped river with rustic footpaths. A 2.2-mile round-trip hike will take you through a scenic gorge in the wooded forest. Follow your ears and the sound of rushing water will guide you to your end destination.
2. Wyalusing State Park – Bagley
Head to where ancient seas and glaciers shaped the geography of Wisconsin. More than 14 miles of trails are available for hiking at Wyalusing State Park. Trails range from the short Bluff Trail, with a visit to a small limestone cavern, all the way to the Mississippi Ridge Trail, which follows the Mississippi bluff for two miles. Find small waterfalls, Native American historical burial mounds and wildlife including turkey among the trails.
3. Copper Falls State Park – Mellen
Doughboys Nature Trail in scenic Copper Falls State Park walks along the Bad River and has stops along the way where families can view the Copper and Brownstone waterfalls. A mile-long spur off the trail leads visitors to a 65-foot observation tower where views include Lake Superior, the Apostle Islands and the Penokee Range.
4. Kettle Moraine State Forest – Delafield
The Kettle Moraine State Trail Lapham Peak Unit, a lovely, easy trail situated 25 miles west of Milwaukee in Delafield, is easy to get to (it’s one mile off the Interstate) and offers wildlife viewing and 17 miles of lighted loop trails. Pick from eight different trails, but whichever you pick, be sure to ramble over to the 45-foot observation tower on top of the highest point in Waukesha County for stellar vistas.
5. Pattison State Park – Superior
This state park is extra-special because it not only offers over seven miles of trails, but it has the state’s highest waterfalls and the fourth highest waterfall east of the Rockies. The Black River passes through the park, then flows over the 31-foot Twin Little Manitou Falls which pours into Interfalls Lake. Walk the two-mile trail along Interfalls Lake for scenic water views, and make sure to stroll along the short .5-mile Big Manitou Falls overlook.
A hike is the perfect way to get outdoors with your family. Beyond exercise, you can enjoy one on one time, affordable fun and the serenity of Wisconsin’s beautiful landscape will rejuvenate and recharge your whole pack. Browse Travel Wisconsin for scenic hiking trails and other ways to reconnect with nature.
