The best walks and hikes in Portage County
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Hiking in Portage County is characterized by routes through nature reserves, around lakes, and along sections of long-distance paths. The landscape is generally flat, featuring woodlands, wetlands, and sandy shorelines, shaped by past glacial activity. Hikers can explore diverse habitats including forests, meadows, and lakeside paths, which contribute to rich biodiversity. The region's trails are primarily located within parks and state-managed areas, offering accessible paths for exploring the local environment.
Best hiking trails in Portage County
- The most popular hiking route is Hartman Creek State Park loop from Hartman Creek State Park, a 4.9 miles (7.8 km) trail that takes 2 hours 4 minutes to complete. This moderate route follows a segment of the Ice Age Trail through the state park.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is White Sands Beach loop from Lake Wazeecha, an easy 4.0 miles (6.4 km) path. The trail circles Lake Wazeecha, passing through wooded areas and along the shoreline.
- Local hikers also love the Schmeeckle Reserve – Lake Forest Restoration Area loop from University of Wisconsin–Stevens Point, a 2.8 miles (4.5 km) trail leading through a restored forest area, often completed in about 1 hour 8 minutes.
- Hiking in Portage County is defined by lakeside loops, forested nature reserves, and segments of the Ice Age Trail. The network consists mainly of easy and moderate routes suitable for a range of fitness levels.
- The routes in Portage County are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.0 stars from over 18 reviews. More than 80 hikers have used komoot to explore Portage County's varied terrain.
Last updated: May 12, 2026
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hikers
5.76km
01:31
40m
50m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
1.49km
00:23
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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12.2km
03:14
110m
110m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
3.39km
00:52
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
90.7km
22:59
190m
200m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
691m
00:11
0m
0m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.3
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11
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.6
(5)
10
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
3.0
(1)
11
hikers
6.55km
01:40
20m
20m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
6
hikers
7.84km
02:04
70m
70m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Hartman Creek State Park is beautiful, spanning 1,417 acres and known for its spring-fed lakes, wooded trails and peaceful atmosphere. The Ice Age Trail winds through the grounds and is a scenic route past glacial landscapes and quiet forest groves. The park is a great spot for plenty of outdoor activities, including hiking, biking, and swimming, and includes a seasonal (closed from December 1st through April 1st) 103-site campground with flush toilets and showers. You can reserve a site here: https://dnr.wisconsin.gov/topic/parks/hartmancreek/recreation/camping to lock in your spot during peak season.
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Crossing Iverson Park while cycling through the Green Circle Trail is worth a stop, as this park offers many amenities that may interest you, especially if you're riding with the family, such as a large playground, restrooms, and picnic areas.
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If you're cycling along North Michigan Avenue and passing through the beautiful Schmeeckle Reserve, you'll come very close to this lovely lake, which is perhaps the most striking feature of the reserve. However, to get closer to the shore, you'll have to dismount your bike and walk the trail, although it is a really short distance.
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Immerse yourself in the natural wonder of Schmeeckle Reserve, a 280-acre conservancy area at UW-Stevens Point. Serving as a community nature haven, it safeguards central Wisconsin's diverse ecosystems. Open to the public, this serene escape offers 5 miles of trails, boardwalks, a 24-acre lake, and varied habitats supporting a wealth of wildlife.
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Johns Lake is in the 4-acre Lake Forest Restoration Area of the Schmeeckle Reserve. This green space can be experienced from the road as well as the dirt trails surrounding the lake. Road bikers can catch a view of the lake and ride the edges of the forests here.
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Immerse yourself in the natural wonder of Schmeeckle Reserve, a 280-acre conservancy area at UW-Stevens Point. Serving as a community nature haven, it safeguards central Wisconsin's diverse ecosystems. Open to the public, this serene escape offers 5 miles of trails, boardwalks, a 24-acre lake, and varied habitats supporting a wealth of wildlife.
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Lake Forest Restoration Area is a project aiming to revive a 4-acre area surrounding Lake Joanis' southwest corner. Initiated after a major storm on June 12, 2017, the restoration addresses the aftermath of fallen aspen trees, turning devastation into an opportunity for a diverse and visually appealing landscape in Schmeeckle Reserve. Explore the transformation and beauty of nature's resilience.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are there many easy, family-friendly hikes in Portage County?
Yes, the region is well-suited for families and beginners. Most trails are rated as easy, featuring gentle terrain through woodlands and around lakes. For a straightforward and scenic walk, consider the Lake Wazeecha loop from Wisconsin Rapids, which is a relatively flat path around the water.
Can I bring my dog on the trails?
Dogs are generally welcome in many of Portage County's parks, such as the popular Towner's Woods, provided they are kept on a leash. However, regulations can vary, especially in state nature preserves like the Kent Bog. It's always best to check the specific rules for the park you plan to visit before you go.
Where can I find hiking trails with waterfalls?
For dramatic scenery including cliffs and waterfalls, Nelson-Kennedy Ledges State Park is the premier destination in the area. The trails there wind through impressive rock formations and past several cascades, offering a more rugged and thrilling hiking experience than other parks in the county.
Are there any circular hiking routes?
Many trails in Portage County are loops, making logistics simple. For a shorter, accessible loop, the Allen Lake loop from Hartman Creek State Park is a great option that takes you around the lake. Trail Lake Park also features a well-regarded looping path through woods and along the water.
What are the trail options near Kent, Ohio?
Kent is a great base for hiking. Towner's Woods Park, located right in Kent, offers several trails through a 234-acre wooded area. Additionally, the Portage Hike & Bike Trail runs through the area, providing a paved, multi-use path that connects to other parks and communities.
Are there any long-distance hiking trails in the area?
Yes, Portage County is home to a segment of the famous Ice Age Trail. You can experience a part of this long-distance path on the moderate Hartman Creek – Ice Age Trail – Hartman Creek State Park loop. The region also features extensive multi-use paths like the Headwaters Trail and Berlin Lake Trail for longer outings.
What do other hikers think of the trails in Portage County?
The trails are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of over 4 stars. Hikers often praise the well-maintained paths, the peaceful lakeside scenery, and the unique geological features found in parks like Nelson-Kennedy Ledges.
Where can I find a quieter, less-trafficked hike?
For a more secluded experience, consider the Skunk Lake loop from Amherst. It offers a peaceful walk through the woods. Another good choice is Shaw Woods Park, which locals describe as a great loop through the woods with multiple route options.
What kind of terrain should I expect?
The terrain is generally flat to gently rolling, characterized by woodlands, wetlands, and the shorelines of lakes and reservoirs. The main exception is Nelson-Kennedy Ledges State Park, which features a much more rugged landscape with steep cliffs, narrow passages, and rocky trails.
Is it possible to go for a hike and a swim?
Yes, several parks offer both. West Branch State Park is a top choice, with a large lake that has designated swimming areas in addition to its hiking trails. The White Sands Beach loop from Biron also takes you along a sandy shoreline, perfect for a walk and a dip.
Are the trails accessible by public transport?
Accessing trailheads directly via public transport can be challenging as most are located within parks that are best reached by car. However, the Portage Hike & Bike Trail is a multi-use path that connects several communities, including Kent and Ravenna, making parts of it accessible without a vehicle.
What are some popular parks for hiking in Portage County?
Some of the most popular spots for hiking include Towner's Woods Park, known for its wooded trails and history, and Trail Lake Park, which offers a scenic loop around the water. For a unique experience with dramatic rock formations, Nelson-Kennedy Ledges State Park is a must-visit.
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