The best family-friendly hikes and walks in Bearskin State Park Trail
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Family friendly hiking trails in Bearskin State Park Trail traverse a former railroad corridor, offering a relatively flat and accessible path through Wisconsin's scenic Northwoods. The region is characterized by numerous glacial lakes, dense forests of oak, maple, and evergreen, and the meandering Bearskin Creek. Hikers will encounter converted railroad trestles crossing waterways, providing unique viewpoints over the landscape. This area provides a diverse botanical experience with sections featuring pine forests and spruce-tamarack bogs.
Best family friendly hiking trails in…
Last updated: April 28, 2026
31.6km
08:05
110m
150m
Hike the challenging 19.6-mile Bearskin State Trail through dense Northwoods forests, past scenic trestles, and abundant wildlife.
18.0km
04:36
70m
70m
Hike the 11.2-mile Bearskin State Trail, a moderate route through Northwoods forests, past lakes, and over historic trestle bridges.
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Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
2
hikers
2.30km
00:36
10m
10m
Hike the easy Clear Lake Trail in Northern Highland-American Legion State Forest, a 1.4-mile route with lake and forest views.
1
hikers
4.77km
01:16
50m
40m
Hike the easy 3.0-mile Raven Blue Loop in American Legion State Forest, featuring hemlock forests and views of Clear Lake.
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Tips from the Community
Named after Bearskin Creek that runs alongside, this trail was formerly a railroad corridor and now spans 21.5 miles between Minocqua and Tomahawk. Passing through parks and offering views of the water, it provides a scenic route as you go.
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Katherine Lake spans 524 acres and offers visitors access via a public boat landing. Fishing is common here, and fishermen try for musky, panfish, largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, and walleye.
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This area, once a major logging area, featured a trail that served as a primary route in and out of the region. Today, the trestle bridge marks the beginning of the Bearskin Trail, a popular destination for hikers, runners, and bikers, providing excellent views of Minocqua Lake.
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Hiking through the Northern Highlands/American Legion State Forest is a great way to dive into Wisconsin's natural beauty. Open daily from 8 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. and spanning 223,283 acres, the forest features 900 lakes and 18 family campgrounds. Hikers can spot 244 bird species, including common nesting pairs of bald eagles, ospreys, and loons.
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This area, once a major logging area, featured a trail that served as a primary route in and out of the region. Today, the trestle bridge marks the beginning of the Bearskin Trail, a popular destination for hikers, runners, and bikers, providing excellent views of Minocqua Lake.
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Named after Bearskin Creek that runs alongside, this trail was formerly a railroad corridor and now spans 21.5 miles between Minocqua and Tomahawk. Passing through parks and offering views of the water, it provides a scenic route as you go.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many family-friendly hiking trails are available in Bearskin State Park Trail?
There are 10 family-friendly hiking routes available in the Bearskin State Park Trail area. These range from easy strolls perfect for young children to more moderate options for active families.
What kind of terrain can we expect on family hikes in Bearskin State Park Trail?
The Bearskin State Park Trail is a former railroad corridor, so you can expect a relatively flat path with a compacted granite surface. This makes it suitable for walking and hiking, and many sections are stroller-friendly. You'll be walking through dense Northwoods forests and over several converted railroad trestles.
Are there any easy, shorter loop options suitable for families with young children?
Yes, for a pleasant and easy loop, consider the Minocqua Trestle Bridge – Bearskin State Park Trail loop from Minocqua. It's just over 6.5 km and offers a great introduction to the area's scenic beauty.
Can we bring our dog on the trails?
Yes, the Bearskin State Park Trail is generally dog-friendly. Always ensure your dog is on a leash and that you clean up after them to maintain a pleasant experience for all visitors and protect the local wildlife.
What are some natural features or landmarks we might see along the trails?
The trail is renowned for its natural beauty. You'll cross numerous converted railroad trestles, including several over the picturesque Bearskin Creek, and one particularly long one over Minocqua Lake. The path winds through dense Northwoods forests, offering glimpses of glacial lakes and diverse plant life. Keep an eye out for interpretive signs detailing the area's history.
Is there a good time of year to visit Bearskin State Park Trail with family?
The trail offers beauty in all seasons. Spring brings fresh greenery and blooming wildflowers, while summer provides lush forests and pleasant temperatures. Autumn is particularly stunning with vibrant fall foliage. Winter offers opportunities for snowshoeing or cross-country skiing, though trail conditions should be checked. For family hikes, late spring through early fall generally offers the most comfortable weather.
Where can we park when visiting Bearskin State Park Trail?
Parking is available at various access points along the trail. For specific trailhead parking information, it's best to consult the official Wisconsin DNR website for the Bearskin State Park Trail, which often provides detailed maps and access points. You can find more information at dnr.wisconsin.gov.
Are there any trails that offer a good chance to see wildlife?
The diverse habitats along the Bearskin State Park Trail support a rich array of wildlife. Hiking through the dense forests and along the lakes and creeks, especially during quieter times of day, increases your chances of spotting eagles, osprey, deer, raccoons, bald eagles, and loons.
What is the easiest and shortest family-friendly hike available?
The Clear Lake Trail is an excellent choice for an easy and short family hike. It's just over 2.3 km and offers a gentle experience through the natural surroundings.
Are there any longer, but still family-friendly, options for a more extended outing?
For families looking for a longer adventure, the Bearskin State Trail offers a moderate 18 km section. While longer, its relatively flat grade makes it manageable for families seeking a full day out on the trail.
What makes the Bearskin State Park Trail unique for family hiking?
The trail's unique combination of a relatively flat, former railroad grade, numerous scenic trestle bridges over lakes and creeks, and immersion in the dense Northwoods forests makes it special. It offers a blend of natural beauty, historical interest, and accessibility that is ideal for families to explore together.
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