The best running trails in Vilas County

Vilas County offers a wide selection of running routes. Our guide features 13 curated jogging routes, ranging from easy to difficult, allowing you to explore the diverse landscapes of the Northwoods.

Yes, Vilas County has several easy running options perfect for beginners or families. For instance, the Fallison Lake loop from Crystal Lake is an easy 2.3-mile trail that takes you through forested areas and past lakes, offering a pleasant and accessible experience.

Absolutely. Many of the running routes in Vilas County are designed as loops, providing a convenient way to start and end your run at the same point. Examples include the popular Bearskin State Park Trail – Minocqua Trestle Bridge loop from Bearskin State Trail Park and the Hemlock Lake – Inkpot Lake loop from Raven Trail System.

Vilas County offers a varied terrain for joggers. You'll find everything from flat, accessible paved paths, like sections of the Heart of Vilas County Bike Trail, to more challenging routes through dense forests and over historic trestle bridges. The region's numerous lakes and rivers also mean many trails wind along scenic shorelines.

Yes, the Bearskin State Park Trail – Minocqua Trestle Bridge loop from Bearskin State Trail Park is a prime example. This 8.9-mile route is known for its scenic trestle bridges and forested sections, offering a unique running experience.

Vilas County is beautiful for running throughout much of the year. Spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures and stunning natural scenery, with vibrant foliage in autumn. Summer is also popular, though it can be warmer, making early morning or late evening runs ideal. Winter running is possible on groomed trails, but requires appropriate gear for snow and ice.

Yes, for those seeking longer distances, the Heart of Vilas County Bike Trail offers over 52 miles of paved trails connecting several communities. While primarily a bike trail, its smooth surface and scenic route through the Northern Highland American Legion Forest make it excellent for extended running. Additionally, routes like the Hemlock Lake – Inkpot Lake loop from Raven Trail System provide a challenging 10.2 miles through varied terrain.

The running routes in Vilas County are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Runners often praise the tranquil woodlands, the beauty of the numerous lakes, and the well-maintained paths that offer a refreshing escape into nature.

Given Vilas County's dense forests and abundant waterways, wildlife sightings are a common and enjoyable part of the running experience. Keep an eye out for deer, various bird species, and other forest creatures, especially during quieter times of day.

Yes, many trails in Vilas County traverse the beautiful Northern Highland-American Legion State Forest. The Heart of Vilas County Bike Trail, for example, winds directly through this significant natural area, offering runners a chance to experience its preserved beauty. The American Legion State Forest loop from Raven Trail System is another route that takes you through this forest.

Beyond paved paths, Vilas County offers extensive opportunities for trail running. Many hunter/hiking trails, such as those in the Decker Lake Unit or Deep Lake Unit, provide a more rugged experience through wooded areas. The Hemlock Lake – Inkpot Lake loop from Raven Trail System is a difficult 10.2-mile path that traverses varied terrain around lakes and through dense woodlands, ideal for trail runners.