Some of the most beautiful places to wander and get a bit lost in Wisconsin are way up north, where the land feels like it hasn’t been touched for years. With tons of forests and lakes up north, there are small trails to hike in Wisconsin with places to explore and discover around nearly every turn. Located in Vilas County, Star Lake is an unincorporated town that was once a bustling spot with a railroad going through. That’s hard to imagine now as the trees have all grown back and the nearest town is miles away.
In the Northern Highland American Legion State Forest, you’ll find a series of trails that wind around the water here. You’ll find the perfect place to rest awhile along the Star Lake shoreline. Pack a lunch and take advantage of what feels like the world’s smallest, most private beach.
This part of the state was once a major part of the logging industry. A mill in Star Lake made it a bustling town with its own railroad spur and plenty of activity.
Photo courtesy Rebecca Bremer
That was a long time ago and now, instead of a devastated forest (from the logging activity), you'll find massive trees.
Photo courtesy Rebecca Bremer
This area was home to one of the state's first tree nurseries. Additionally, the peninsula that juts out into the lake contained grazing pastures for the horses that were used to haul logs over to the mill. It's hard to remember or imagine that history when you're lost in the silent beauty of the spot now.
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Today, you can explore a trail along the lake's shore. It's often deserted and rewards outdoor enthusiasts with a beautiful, relaxing hike.
It features a boardwalk and travels through an area of ferns, wildflowers, and mosses. The colors glow in the spring and summer, but the area is also really magical in the winter months when this trail becomes a popular spot for snowshoeing.
This trail is so perfect because it mixes the best of both worlds.
It's not just a hike along a lake and it's not just a hike through the woods. You'll get to listen to the sounds in the trees and keep your ears open for rustling in the ferns — and you'll also get to watch the water and sky for birds and other wildlife. It's impossible to get bored on this trail simply because you never know what you're going to see.
Deer, porcupines, squirrels, otters, and all kinds of birds are regularly spotted along this trail.
About midway around the lake, you'll encounter a spot with a small clearing and a bench. From here, if you peek through the sparse trees, you'll see a small beach that leads right into the water.
Photo courtesy Rebecca Bremer
This perfect little clearing is an ideal place to stop for a rest, have a picnic lunch, put up a hammock, or head into the water.
Photo courtesy Rebecca Bremer
It's the most inviting location. And because it takes a little work to get there, the likelihood is that you'll have it all to yourself. Peel off your boots and socks and wade into the water or come prepared with a bathing suit and dive right in. This little nook in the forest is yours to enjoy.
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If you love spending time among nature, then you'll love all that this trail delivers.
It's an escape from the bustling activity of the tourist areas of the Northwoods. It's a big magical and special feeling like you've found a piece of the forest all to yourself. Then you get to the lake and you add an entirely new way to engage your senses.
The trail is a mere 2.5 miles long, but don't be surprised if you just end up spending the day here.
You deserve the rest and relaxation you'll feel after a day in the woods and in the water at Star Lake. This amazing hike in Wisconsin is an ideal trail to place at the top of your bucket list.
