The best walks and hikes in Northern Highland American Legion State Forest

Yes, the forest has several great options for families. For a very gentle walk, the Hemlock Lake loop from Minocqua is a short, easy trail that is perfect for all ages. The North Trout Trail is another 1-mile option that follows the shoreline and is excellent for spotting wildflowers in the spring.

Yes, dogs are welcome on the hiking trails in the Northern Highland American Legion State Forest, but they must be on a leash that is 8 feet (2.4 m) or shorter at all times. Please be sure to clean up after your pet to keep the trails enjoyable for everyone.

The trails are generally well-maintained. You'll find a mix of natural forest floor paths, some with rolling hills, and occasional bog crossings on wooden boardwalks. Some routes, like the Clear Lake Paved Path — American Legion State Forest, are paved and offer a smoother surface for walking.

Many trails offer beautiful scenery. The Shannon Lake loop from Shannon Lake Trail is a quiet route that provides excellent opportunities for spotting wildlife like beavers, loons, and ospreys around the water. The forest is also a major nesting area for bald eagles, so keep an eye on the sky.

While many trails are easy to moderate, there are options for a more strenuous day out. The Escanaba Trail is a hilly and scenic 11-mile route that winds around five different lakes. The Madeline Trail also offers 9.5 miles of trails with rolling hills, providing a good challenge.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars. Hikers often praise the serene atmosphere, the beautiful lake views, and the well-marked trail systems that wind through classic northern Wisconsin forests.

Yes, many of the most popular trails in the forest are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same location without retracing your steps. The Raven Red Trail loop — American Legion State Forest is a great example of a classic forest loop hike.

Yes, parking is generally available at or near the main trailheads within the forest. A Wisconsin State Park vehicle admission sticker is required for entry and parking. You can find more details on fees and purchasing a pass on the official Wisconsin DNR website.

Yes, the Tom Roberts Memorial Trail is a 0.55-mile paved, accessible loop with beautiful views of Muskellunge Lake. It's an excellent choice for visitors using wheelchairs or strollers, or anyone looking for a very easy, smooth walk.

Hiking is enjoyable from late spring through fall. Spring offers a chance to see wildflowers, especially along boggy areas. Summer is perfect for combining a hike with a swim in one of the many lakes. Autumn is particularly spectacular, as the mixed deciduous-coniferous forest provides a brilliant display of fall colors.

The landscape of the Northern Highland American Legion State Forest is defined by its hundreds of lakes and bogs rather than significant changes in elevation, so you will not find waterfalls along the hiking trails here. The main water features are the serene and beautiful lakes.