In Northern Wisconsin, there are trails that will take you to wild forests, unspoiled lakes, and tranquil clearings. But one trail has more than incredible scenery - it leads to a destination that’s especially worth seeking out. The Hiawatha Trail and Bearskin State Trail will take you right to the Windmill Ice Cream Shoppe, a picture-perfect Northwoods icon that draws ice cream lovers of all ages. So grab your walking shoes or bike and don’t forget your wallet - this adventure will have a sweet ending.
The Hiawatha Trail and Bearskin State Trail is a recreation trail that runs from Minocqua to Tomahawk. The trails are built on former railroad beds – they once carried the famous Hiawatha Train from Chicago.
Runners, walkers and bikers enjoy the trail – it’s smooth and level and has several scenic bridges. It also has a wonderful rest stop that’s a perfect reward for logging a few miles.
The Windmill Ice Cream Shoppe is a Northwoods institution. It’s been serving ice cream lovers of all ages for more than 80 years. You’ll find it right next to the trail.
Once you have your cone, you can wander down by the water or relax in the shade of the shop’s gazebo. Take in the view and enjoy every lick of the cone – you’ve earned it!
The shop is open daily, seasonally. Check the shop’s Facebook page for the latest hours and information. Hungry for more delicious Wisconsin ice cream? Take a road trip to these awesome Wisconsin shops.
If you've ever driven north up I-90 toward Tomah, you've seen the gorgeous rock formations that dot the landscape. Most folks are familiar with Buckhorn and Mill Bluff State Parks, but in this area, there's a spectacular and under-appreciated state natural area just waiting for you to visit. And it's home to one of our favorite Wisconsin hikes. Get ready to hike the Lone Rock Trail in Wisconsin at the Quincy Bluff and Wetlands State Natural Area.
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The Quincy Bluff and Wetlands State Natural Area is actually protected by the Nature Conservancy. There are more than 6,500 acres of beautiful land here that was shaped by ancient glaciers. The sandstone cliffs soar 200 feet above the wetlands below and are the remnants of the extinct Glacial Lake Wisconsin. This gorgeous spot combines history, spectacular views, and a diverse wildlife population. Hiking here is truly an unforgettable experience.
Quincy Bluffs and Wetlands is located in south-central Wisconsin, between Madison and Eau Claire.
It's so rare to find both in such proximity and that's what makes this an unforgettable hike.
The trail here is a 6.6-mile out-and-back trail with a small loop at the end. The Lone Rock Trail difficulty rating on AllTrails is "moderate," with a total of 130 feet in elevation gain.
You'll feel like you're in the middle of nowhere because you won't see any towns or civilization in the distance. It'll be you and the noises of nature. With more popular state parks nearby, you'll often find that you don't even encounter other hikers while you're here.
This starts as a forest walk. The vastly different types of landscape here make this spot home to a wide variety of flora and fauna, including some rare species.
The diverse biosystem here is what makes this place so special. You get to see so much different landscape in one natural area; it's like a microcosm of Wisconsin geography and geology.
The payoffs make it worth spending a day exploring Quincy Bluff and Wetland.
Quincy Bluff and Wetlands State Natural Area is located off Hwy Z near Adams, Wisconsin. Visit the DNR website for more information on the state natural area and its AllTrails listing for more info on Lone Rock Trail in Wisconsin. If you're looking for Lone Rock Trail photos or Lone Rock Trail Reviews, check out AllTrails Plus, which offers these benefits and much more.
One of the best walks in Wisconsin cuts through the yards of some very, very nice homes. The Lake Geneva Lake Shore Path traces the edge of Geneva Lake, along a series of walkways that are literally in the front yards of historic mansions. I’ll admit, part of me felt a little like I was trespassing at first. But this spectacular Lake Geneva path is open to everyone - here’s what I found on the trail.
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I started my trek in the heart of Lake Geneva. This gorgeous lakefront community is one of Wisconsin’s top tourist destinations – it offers great shopping and dining, golf, lake fun, and more. I popped into the visitors center to grab some brochures.
In the 1800s, wealthy Chicago residents built incredible lakefront mansions on Geneva Lake. As I walked, the mansions were on my left, the beautiful lake was on my right.
The homes have always been home to the rich and famous and that continues today. You have to be a person of considerable means to afford these homes!
There’s 21 miles of lakeshore and the path covers 26 miles. I did not hike the while path – I just walked until I felt like turning around - there was ice cream waiting for me downtown!
There’s a lot of trail to explore - and I think it's one of the best walks in Wisconsin. I plan to return to hike more of this wonderful path soon. Learn more about the Geneva Lake Shore Path on AllTrails. Planning a summer trip? Here are some adventure products that will make your getaway even better.
