The best dog-friendly hikes and walks around Santower Lake

There are over 40 dog-friendly hiking trails around Santower Lake, offering a variety of experiences for you and your canine companion. These routes range from easy strolls to more challenging hikes, ensuring there's something for every fitness level.

The trails around Santower Lake, particularly those on the Stower Seven Lakes State Trail, feature a generally level grade with a crushed limestone surface. You'll traverse diverse landscapes including maple and oak forests, wetlands, prairies, and farmlands, often skirting past scenic lakes. This makes for a comfortable and varied hiking experience for both you and your dog.

Yes, there are 17 easy dog-friendly routes around Santower Lake. For a pleasant, shorter option, consider the View of Lake Ploggensee – Lake Ploggensee loop from Grevesmühlen, which is just over 4 km long with minimal elevation gain. Another easy choice is the Hamberge Observation Tower – View of Lake Ploggensee loop from Hamberge, offering a 6.5 km walk.

For those seeking a longer adventure, there are 4 difficult dog-friendly routes. The Hamberge Observation Tower – View of Lake Ploggensee loop from Grevesmühlen is a challenging option, spanning over 19 km with moderate elevation changes, perfect for a full day out with an energetic dog.

Many of the dog-friendly trails around Santower Lake are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. For example, the Vielbecker Lake Loop – Vielbecker Lake loop from Grevesmühlen is a moderate 11 km circular route that takes you around Vielbecker Lake.

The trails offer beautiful natural scenery, including maple and oak forests, wetlands, and prairies. A key feature is the presence of several scenic lakes, such as North Twin, South Twin, Bear Trap, Kinney, Dwight, Horse, and Lotus lakes, which provide excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing and picturesque views. The diverse habitats also make it a popular spot for birdwatching.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 900 ratings. Reviewers often praise the well-maintained trails, the serene lake views, and the peaceful natural environment, making it an ideal destination for walks with dogs.

The Stower Seven Lakes State Trail is enjoyable year-round. Spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures and vibrant foliage, while summer provides opportunities for a refreshing dip at Dwight Lake Beach (check dog policies for specific areas). In winter, the trail remains open for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing, offering a unique experience with your dog in snowy conditions.

Yes, along the Stower Seven Lakes State Trail, you'll find several rest stops in Deronda, Wanderoos, and Nye. These stops often provide amenities such as parking, restrooms, drinking fountains, and picnic tables, making it convenient for longer excursions with your dog.

For official information regarding the Stower Seven Lakes State Trail, including any specific regulations or updates, you can visit the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources website: dnr.wisconsin.gov/topic/parks/stower.

Absolutely. There are 21 moderate dog-friendly routes available. The View of Lake Ploggensee – Hamberge Lookout Tower loop from Grevesmühlen is a great option, covering nearly 12 km with some elevation, providing a satisfying challenge for you and your dog.