The Iconic Hiking Trail In Wisconsin Is One Of The Coolest Outdoor Adventures You’ll Ever Take

Some of the best outdoor adventures are hiding in plain sight. In northeast Wisconsin, there’s a recreation trail that’s an easy drive from places like Oshkosh, Appleton, and Green Bay, but it feels a world away. It’s called the Wiouwash State Trail, and it’s a scenic Wisconsin trail that’s a great destination for hiking, biking, and winter sports. Ready for some fresh air? Here’s what’s waiting for you on the Wiouwash State Trail.

The Wiouwash State Trail has an unusual name - it’s made up of letters from the four counties it travels through - Winnebago, Outagamie, Waupaca, and Shawano.

The trail offfers miles of outdoor fun. It covers over 40 miles, and it’s maintained by local counties and the state Department of Natural Resources. It’s built on a former railroad corridor.

The trail primarily consists of a crushed limestone surface, making it suitable for a variety of activities, including hiking, running, and biking. It’s relatively flat and it’s suitable for nature lovers of all ages. It’s open in all seasons – in the winter it becomes a snowmobile trail, but hiking and skiing are still permitted. Use caution!

Wiouwash Trail offers plenty of scenic beauty. As you traverse the trail, you'll encounter picturesque landscapes, including woodlands, wetlands, and open fields.

The trail is divided into two sections that are separated by a 30-mile gap. One segment travels about 22 miles from Hortonville to Oshkosh. A second section to the north runs between Aniwa and Split Rock. Both segments are pretty great.

A segment of the trail has received national recognition. The trail's Tribal Heritage Crossing of Lake Butte des Morts is a nationally designated recreation trail. You’ll find it on the southern segment, and it’s beautiful; but you can find nice scenery pretty much anywhere on this trail.

It’s been a few years since I’e experienced this scenic Wisconsin trail - I need to plan a trip! Learn more about the Wiouwash State Trail on AllTrails. Make your Wisconsin travel plans on Booking.com - and here’s where to find some more cool Wisconsin adventures.