The best running trails in Wisconsin

Wisconsin offers over 1000 running routes, catering to all skill levels. You'll find a wide variety, including over 120 easy routes, more than 700 moderate trails, and nearly 170 difficult paths. The terrain ranges from flat lakeside paths to challenging routes with significant elevation changes through glacial formations, bluffs, and dense woodlands.

Yes, Wisconsin has many family-friendly options. For example, the Lake Delton loop is a moderate 5.2-mile (8.3 km) trail that offers scenic views around the lake, suitable for a pleasant family outing. Many state parks also feature easier, well-maintained paths perfect for families.

For a more challenging run, consider the Devil's Lake Loop, a difficult 5.2-mile (8.4 km) path featuring significant elevation gain and stunning views of Devil's Lake. Another option is the Ice Age Trail: Devil's Lake Loop, a longer and more strenuous 13.7-mile (22.1 km) route with substantial vertical gain, offering an intense workout amidst beautiful scenery.

Absolutely! The Ice Age National Scenic Trail spans 1,200 miles across Wisconsin and offers numerous segments perfect for running. For instance, the Ice Age Trail - Devil's Lake Loop is a difficult 7.6-mile (12.2 km) route that provides a great experience of the trail's glacially sculpted landscapes. Another challenging option is the Ice Age Trail: Devil's Lake East Bluff Loop, covering 9.4 miles (15.2 km).

Wisconsin's diverse landscape offers many natural highlights. Near Devil's Lake State Park, you can encounter unique rock formations like Balanced Rock. The Kettle Moraine State Forest features distinctive glacial terrain. You might also run past beautiful lakes like Lake Wingra or through forested areas such as the University of Wisconsin–Madison Arboretum.

Yes, many routes in Wisconsin are designed as loops, offering a continuous scenic experience. Examples include the Lake Delton loop, the challenging Devil's Lake Loop, and the Elephant Rock & Upland Trail Loop, which is a moderate 7.2-mile (11.5 km) path.

The running routes in Wisconsin are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 50 reviews. Reviewers often praise the diverse and scenic landscapes, from glacial formations and bluffs to extensive forest trails, offering options for various ability levels and stunning natural beauty.

Many popular running areas in Wisconsin, especially state parks and designated trailheads, offer convenient parking. For example, routes within Devil's Lake State Park and Kettle Moraine State Forest typically have accessible parking facilities. Urban trails like those in Milwaukee and Madison also often have nearby parking options or are well-served by public transport.

Wisconsin is known for its dramatic bluffs and rock formations, particularly in areas like Devil's Lake State Park. The West Bluff and Tumbled Rocks Trail Loop is a moderate 3.9-mile (6.3 km) route that will take you through these impressive geological features, offering breathtaking views.

Wisconsin has a large selection of moderate trails. The Moraine Ridge Trail is a popular moderate 4.5-mile (7.3 km) route leading through unique glacial terrain. Another excellent choice is the Ice Age Trail: East Bluff and Steinke Basin Loop, a moderate 6.6-mile (10.6 km) path offering varied scenery.

Many routes in Wisconsin are incredibly scenic. The Bunker Drive and Canyon Road Loop, a moderate 5.8-mile (9.3 km) run, offers beautiful views. Additionally, trails in Devil's Lake State Park, such as the various bluff loops, provide stunning panoramic vistas of the lake and surrounding landscape.