Top Spots for a Fall Hike in the Stevens Point Area

Wander along the shores of McDill Pond for incredible, waterline fall views. The Erickson Natural Area is known for its large range of birding opportunities and has a half-mile woodchip trail that winds along the shoreline. 

Explore any segment of the 27-mile Green Circle Trail to view great fall colors. For some specific inspiration, take a trek on the River Pines Trail - which is one of the most scenic portions of the trail. With views of rocky outcroppings, large white pine and oak trees, and incredible sunsets, take an evening stroll along the trail for the best views. 

Photo by @lemonknow

Located within the 143-acre Lake Emily County Park, you'll find an easy 1.5-mile trail that winds through a wooded area of the park that beautifully showcases fall colors. Depending on where you choose to park, keep the hike a mile and a half or add some miles and double it making the trip around 3 miles. Can't get enough? Enjoy the waterfront color-filled views, and venture to the lakeshore before you leave! 

Meander through the largest wildlife area in Wisconsin at the George W. Mead Wildlife Area this fall. It is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and offers over 33,000 acres of wetlands, forests, and grasslands. Not sure where to start, with so much room to explore? Start with the Ephemeral Boardwalk Trail, for an easy 2-mile trek with a variety of views. 

Located in northeast Portage County, the Steinhaugen Recreation Area has 4.3 miles of recreational trails to explore. The area has a diverse landscape with the Plover River running through it and wetlands, hardwood forest, pine plantations, and open fields surrounding the trails. 

View fall colors in full effect on the 280-acre Schmeeckle Reserve. Free and open to the public, you'll want to spend some time exploring the 5 mile of trails the reserve has to offer. While there, climb the treehouse, sit in the giant carved chairs near the visitor center, and hike the Frog Chorus Trail or the 1-mile loop around Lake Joanis. 

Photo by Bob Mosier

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 coursed paths - one about 1 mile long and another shorter trail perfect for exploring.

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. 

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 fall colors of any state-natural area. 

Mix fall views with local and regional artwork at the Stevens Point Sculpture Park. The park features a half-mile recreational trail with more than 30 works of art - such as the iconic Elk Centaur or the massive Sand County Bench. Pair the half-mile trail within the park, to the Brickyard Trail which creates a great 1-mile loop. 

Photo by @taylordanieleart