Four Seasons, Deer Run and Poplar Pass Loop

High Cliff State Park has some great hiking and cool spots throughout the park, but something that isn't on the map is located right next to the Observatory Tower atop of the bluffs. From the main parking lot area, left of the observatory tower, there is an old stone entrance behind a wooden fence. Climbing around the fence, explorers can walk down the stone steps and loop around the bluffs bel...

Inside of High Cliff State Park, Lime Kiln Trail is a unique spot right off the shores of Lake Winnebago. The trail extends 1.7 miles, but has a early cutoff to shorten the hike if desired. In the winter, the trail is not marked well, but hikers can follow the tracks to continue on the loop.The trail also runs next to the old kiln lines of the Western Lime and Cement Company that operated for o...

Located southwest of Plymouth, WI, the Parnell Observation Tower is located just west of the intersection of Cty Road A and Cty Road U. At the trail-head, the parking lot has a restroom facility, drinking water, and a picnic area.The start of the trail has well established wooden steps along the entire walk to the base of the tower. On your left, there is an alternative route to begin the Parne...

The Milwaukee River Trailhead for the Ice Age Trail (IAT) is located on WI-28, east of the Kettle Moraine Scenic Drive. Before the hike, make sure to pack water, or hike off-trail to the New Fane trailhead (1.1 mile round trip, we got caught doing this) for an early water source on the trail. The Kettle Moraine State Forest had been shaped and sculpted by glacier thousands of years ago, leaving...

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...

The Green Circle was established over thirty years ago, providing urban community members a trail system that encircles the entire Stevens Point area.  The 27 mile loop is comprised of 12 unique sections and is accessible at numerous locations. The official trail head is located at the Schmeekle Reserve Visitor Center which offers free parking, restrooms and hiking opportunities. This is easily...