Take a break from the hustle and bustle this summer in St. Germain, Wisconsin. From the serenity of being surrounded by tall trees, quiet waters, and acres of lakes in the Northwoods, you can be sure to find your dream vacation. This outdoor paradise is known as a preferred destination for snowmobiling but did you know about the trails for hiking and biking that are also in St. Germain? Check out these four trails you must check out while visiting St. Germain this summer!
Heart of Vilas County Bike Trail
Photo Credit: Heart of Vilas Bicycle Trail System // @paulonebts via Instagram
Known as one of the best ways to explore Vilas County on two wheels, the Heart of Vilas County Bike Trail system has two different segments that roll through St. Germain. The heart trail system offers more than 52 miles of paved trails and is recognized as the national recreation trail and winds through the Northern Highland American Legion Forest and along crystal clear lakes and rivers! Don’t miss out on this fun trail while visiting St. Germain!Â
The first segment connects the South Bay Trail Lot (Highway O) to the St. Germain Chamber of Commerce. This is a great 5.5 mile trail for beginner riders with flat terrain! The second segment also begins at the St. Germain Chamber of Commerce and heads into Sayner. This 8.5 mile long trail is filled with rolling terrain, steep hills, and a lot of outdoors fun. Make sure to pack a picnic for the way and pull off the trail and enjoy a nice shaded break on a hot summer day.
Awassa Nature Preserve & Hiking Trail
Photo Credit: Awassa Trails // @amanda__anderson via Instagram
For a hike through billowing trees that provide a ton of great shade, make sure to check out the Awassa Nature Preserve & Hiking Trail. This is an easy beginner trail that meanders through 230 acres of mature pines, oaks, maples and balsam fir. There are four different loops on the trail: Maple Loop, Red Oak Loop, Pinewood Loop, and the Aspen Loop. These segments are open to the walkers, runners and hikers during the summer months!
Fern Ridge Trail
Photo Credit: Fern Ridge Hiking Trail // @_carrieb_ via Instagram
Enjoy the wide variety of wildflowers, trees, and non-flowering plants on the Fern Ridge Trail. This is an 1.4 mile intermediate level trail just for hikers and is known for the secluded and tranquil forest setting. If you’re looking to take a break and take it all in…don’t worry! There are plenty of benches throughout the park to rest and enjoy all of the serenity surrounding you.
Shannon Lake Trail
Photo Credit: Shannon Lake Trail // @elliemae_theenglishcream via Instagram
The Shannon Lake Trail, just north of St. Germain has four different trails for beginners to intermediate hikers and bikers alike: Red loop, Blue/Red loop, Red/Yellow loop, Blue/Yellow loop, and the Green/Red loop. This trail runs through areas that were logged in 1976 and 2000 and winds through a large variety of the northern hardwoods that makes for a picturesque stroll. Don’t miss out on the loop that trails around the lake and take in the serenity that surrounds the non-motorized lake.
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There you have it! Four trails you need to head out to hike and bike this summer while taking a trip to St. Germain. From beginner paths to expert trails, there is a ride or hike for everyone and it will surely leave you feeling at peace to take the path less traveled.
Are you ready to take your break from the hustle and bustle and head to St. Germain? Let us know what trail you’re looking forward to hiking or biking this summer!
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Kortnee Hass: Digital Media Associate for Discover Mediaworks. A Wisconsin ‘now & forever’ transplant with a soft spot for squeaky cheese curds, craft breweries, and all things Wisconsin tourism.
