Take advantage of the summer months in Wisconsin by taking a hike on any one of the picturesque hiking trails in the Stevens Point Area. From the rolling hills at Standing Rocks to the boardwalk paths along the Green Circle, hiking in the Stevens Point Area will have you coming back time after time!
Header photo from @shoua_lorTop 10 Spots
Top1. George W. Mead Wildlife Area
Explore the vast region of the George W. Mead this summer. Offering over 80 miles of trails and 33,000 acres, there are three designated walking trails accessible from the visitor center. Opt for a short 0.5-mile walk through grasslands on their Audubon Prairie Nature Trail or meander along the 2-mile Ephemeral Boardwalk Trail past Dragonfly Pond.
2. Green Circle Trail
Where would a top hikes list be without the iconic 27-mile Green Circle Trail? Stroll along the 12 segments each with its own scenic views and don't miss views from the Moses Creek segment and the cathedral trees that line the trail.
While dogs are welcomed on every segment (except the University Trail), they must be kept on leashes no longer than 8 feet and should be managed in a way that poses no threat to other trail users or wildlife. Also be sure to clean up after your pet.
3. Ice Age Trail
Find serenity along the New Hope - Iola Ski Hill segment of the Ice Age Trail this season as the trail is home to one of the largest and least disturbed northern dry-mesic forests remaining in Central Wisconsin. The segment is about 5.5 miles long and winds through the woods and up along hills.
4. Nelsonville Community Sanctuary
Just east of Stevens Point, along the beautiful Tomorrow River, you'll find the community of Nelsonville. Hiking can be done in the 40-acre Nelsonville Sanctuary where they have two paths - one about 1 mile long and another shorter trail perfect for exploring.
5. Schmeeckle Reserve
With 5 miles of trails within the Schmeeckle Reserve to choose from, start with a hike along the 1-mile Lake Joanis loop that showcases the crystal clear water. While hiking through the reserve, be on the lookout for all sorts of wildlife ranging from deer to frogs to all different varieties of birds.
Fun fact, the Lake Joanis loop is handicap accessible with a newly added accessible fishing pier!
6. Sculpture Park
Opt for a short hike this summer along the half-mile trail through the Stevens Point Sculpture Park. Combine nature and art for a unique hiking experience where you can view over 30 works of art. Looking for more hiking? Pair the half-mile Sculpture Park trail with the Brickyard Trail to create a great 1-mile loop.
7. Standing Rocks County Park
Explore rolling hills and picturesque views hiking at Standing Rocks. The park has over 12-miles of trails with varying terrain for skill levels from beginner to advanced. Want more? Standing Rocks also has mountain biking trails, a disc golf course, and a dog park.
Be prepared! The park requires a day or season pass that's available online.
8. State Natural Areas
There are 11 different state natural areas within Portage County and each has plenty of space for hiking. While there are no designated trails, you can pave your own path and enjoy the picturesque summer views of any state-natural area. Need some inspiration? Check out the New Hope Pines natural area as it is one of the largest dry-mesic forests remaining in central Wisconsin.
9. Steinhaugen Recreational Area
Find 4.3-miles of recreational hiking available within the Steinhaugen Recreational Area. Tucked away in northeastern Portage County, the area has around 270-acres of room to explore with the Plover River running through the area, wetlands, upland hardwood forests, open fields, and more!
10. Tomorrow River State Trail
Hike along the crushed limestone Tomorrow River Trail and the 28-miles it has to offer. While you probably won't be hiking the whole trail - it offers a smooth surface to get outside and enjoy rural Portage County. You can also find biking and horseback riding opportunities on the trail during the summer!
Honorable Mentions
Top- Hartman Creek State Park: About 10-miles of varied trails
- Lake Emily Park: 143-acres, around 5-miles of trails
- Erickson Natural Area: Around 20-acres, half-mile woodchip trail
Map of Hiking Spots
TopHere's a handy tool to help you find all of the best spots to hike this summer in the Stevens Point Area.
Want More?
Keep the summer fun rolling with 50 things to do this summer or our guide to 22 food and drinks to try in 2022. And while you're out having fun, be sure to share your next adventure by including @stevenspointarea on Instagram or use #stevenspointarea!
