Hiking in Wisconsin is one of the most popular pastimes, and the Driftless Region offers an incredibly unique and picturesque experience. The Driftless Area is characterized by its rugged topography. It features deep river valleys, rolling hills, and limestone bluffs left untouched by the glacial activity that shaped much of the surrounding landscape. This creates a diverse and beautiful environment for hikers of all skill levels and experiences to explore.
There’s an impressive selection of state parks and nature preserves packed with hiking trails, it’s often more challenging to choose which hikes to take, and the fun part is getting out there and discovering the beauty of our state. The trail system right here at Justin Trails Resort near Sparta, WI, is a great place to start. Our 200-acre property offers the perfect place for a leisurely hike with fantastic birdwatching opportunities, as well as two championship disc golf courses and many other family-friendly activities.
As a guest at our Wisconsin cabins and resort, you’ll have complimentary access to all of the above adventures and more. For those who want to head out and explore, we’re centrally located near a long list of beautiful places for some of the best hiking in Wisconsin. After a day full of adventure in the wilderness, your accommodations will welcome you back with luxurious amenities such as two-person whirlpool bathtubs, comfortable seating areas around the fire, and perfectly soft beds with fine linens. Start planning your next vacation hiking in Wisconsin, and book your lodging today!
Hiking in Wisconsin: Best Places to Reconnect with Nature
Enjoy the breathtaking scenery and unique geological features of the Driftless Region as you explore hiking in Wisconsin. There’s no shortage of hidden gems and scenic vistas that will take your breath away! Remember it’s always best to check the trail conditions and park regulations before heading out on your hike, and be prepared with appropriate gear, water, and snacks.
- Wildcat Mountain State Park: Nestled near Ontario, this park offers hiking trails that wind through dense hardwood forests and along the Kickapoo River. There are just over 25 miles of some of the best hiking in Wisconsin, as well as biking and horseback riding trails within the park. The Old Settler’s Trail and the Hemlock Trail are recommended!
- Kickapoo Valley Reserve: Stretching between La Farge and Ontario, this reserve boasts a variety of trails with diverse terrains. The Kickapoo Valley Reserve Trail System offers both gentle and challenging hikes, including the famous Kickapoo Ridge Trail.
- Trempealeau National Wildlife Refuge: This nature refuge is located on the eastern edge of the Mississippi River and offers several hiking opportunities on its 6,400 acres of land. The sanctuary is primarily a backwater section of the Mississippi River, thus offering the perfect habitat for waterfowl and other birds.
- Perrot State Park: The Park encompasses 1,243 acres and offers magnificent views from its 500-foot limestone bluffs. The Brady’s Bluff Natural Area provides some of the best views of the river and Trempealeau Mountain, a sacred mountain by Native Americans.
- 400 State Trail: This 22-mile trail connects to the Elroy-Sparta Trail from Reedsburg. It’s a multi-use trail that weaves back and forth across the Baraboo River and offers some of the most accessible hiking in Wisconsin.
- Elroy-Sparta State Trail: As the inaugural trail in the Rails to Trails project in the country, it’s very popular with visitors and locals. Break the trail up into multiple days, and you can quickly discover all 32.5 miles of this beautiful trail. Just be sure to take a flashlight (and maybe some layers) for the walks through the tunnels.
- Black River State Forest: Two forks of the Black River flow through this 68,000-acre forest comprised of pine and oak woods under high sandstone formations. There are many opportunities for hiking in the forest. Nature trails with interpretive signs can be found at Pigeon Creek and Castle Mound campgrounds.
- Justin Trails Resort Trails: If you don’t feel like traveling far at all, you can still access some of the best hiking in Wisconsin here at the Justin Trails Resort! Our 200-acre property has a beautiful trail system that is perfect for exploring. Don’t forget to take your binoculars, as the birdwatching and wildlife here are exquisite.
Luxurious Wisconsin Cabins for Your Next Getaway
At the end of a long day on the trails, you’ll be ready to put your feet up and relax for the evening in Wisconsin cabins at the Justin Trails Resort. We offer an array of comfortable accommodations, whether in our farmhouse bed and breakfast suites, cottages and glamping options, or beautiful Scandinavian-Scribe log cabins; you’ll find the perfect choice for your next getaway. The summer and fall seasons are ideal for hiking in Wisconsin, and the evenings are best spent with bonfires and stargazing.
The magnificent Paul Buyan Log Cabin (pictured above) is one of the most luxurious lodging options on our property. Our dog-friendly Scandinavian-Scribe log cabin in Wisconsin is built with huge aspen, logged from our farm in rural Sparta, Wisconsin. The cabin is 1,000 square feet for family and friends to enjoy making the perfect cozy oasis with your getaway needs in mind. This open-concept Wisconsin cabin sleeps up to six people and will be an unforgettable experience.
As a guest at our resort, you’ll also be treated to a wholesome breakfast each morning of your stay. It’s the best way to start your day before setting out for hiking in Wisconsin. Our morning meals are homemade with tried-and-true family recipes, and we often have sweet and savory options. Start planning your next getaway to the Wisconsin Driftless Region and book your lodging today!
