Patrick Cole

280-acre Schmeeckle Reserve is maintained by the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point College of Natural Resources. Everything about it is in pristine condition. You will almost certainly encounter wildlife, and sometimes the wildlife is quite curious. I have had deer walk within five feet of me while I was laying in my hammock.The Reserve is covered in trails, but the most scenic are the Lake...

This ridge is one of the lesser known paths from the Eagle Creek Trailhead. Instead of taking Ruckel Creek Trail, find the trail leading up Ruckel Ridge. It is a far more difficult hike of about 7 miles leading up to Benson Plateau. Along the way there are beautiful lookout points for Mount Hood, Mount Adams, and the Columbia River Gorge. This is one of my favorite hikes I've ever done, everyth...

Begin at the trailhead either north or south of the river, where parking is offered, and hike down to the river. You should be able to hear the falls. A trail will follow along the river to the west, marked with yellow "River Trail" signs. Follow the river trail down until the footbridge leads across to the other side of the Eau Claire. Along the way are various spots to climb, swim, take pictu...