Minocqua Trestle Bridge – Bearskin State Park Trail loop from Minocqua

If you're looking for an easy, high-payoff hiking route that's perfect for the whole family, the Minocqua Trestle Bridge – Bearskin State Park Trail loop from Minocqua is an excellent choice. This popular route is rated easy, covering 4.1 miles (6.6 km) with a gentle 90 feet (28 metres) of elevation gain, and typically takes around 1 hour and 41 minutes to complete. It's a fantastic way to experience Wisconsin's Northwoods without a strenuous climb.

What to expect on Minocqua Trestle Bridge – Bearskin State Park Trail loop from Minocqua

This trail offers a journey through diverse Northwoods scenery, primarily on a smooth, compacted granite surface that makes for easy walking. You'll wind through dense forests of hardwood and pine, occasionally passing spruce and tamarack bogs, with the tree canopy often creating a unique, tunnel-like experience. The route closely follows Bearskin Creek and skirts numerous lakes, including Minocqua Lake, providing plenty of scenic viewpoints. A highlight is crossing the 15 to 16 historic railroad trestle bridges, especially the impressive 375-foot Minocqua Trestle, which offers panoramic views of Minocqua Lake. While mostly flat, there's one small, paved hill known as the "Pollnow Bypass," and you might encounter short stretches of shallow sand. This easy trail is suitable for all skill levels and offers opportunities to spot local wildlife like bald eagles, deer, and loons.

Planning your visit

The Minocqua trailhead provides convenient amenities for your visit, including paved parking, restrooms, drinking water, and picnic areas, making it a comfortable starting point for your adventure. Since the trail is built on a former railroad line, it's generally accessible and well-maintained. There are no specific permits or seasonal closures mentioned, so you can likely enjoy this trail throughout much of the year, though checking local conditions is always a good idea.

Trail details

• Distance: 4.1 miles (6.6 km)
• Elevation gain: 90 feet (28 metres)
• Difficulty: easy
• Estimated time: 1 hours and 41 minutes