The shorter days and crisp air are upon us, and the leaves are just beginning to change! That means it’s time to head to the Hayward Lakes area—a must-visit destination for fall color. From hiking and biking to ATV and UTV riding and scenic color tours, there are endless ways to soak up the season’s spectacular scenery. Keep reading to explore four ways to enjoy Hayward’s fall color!
By Foot
Lace up your hiking boots and discover Hayward Lakes’ fall color on foot! With countless hiking trails to choose from, there is a perfect path for every type of hiker. For an easy-to-moderate hike, we highly recommend checking out the Town of Hayward Recreational Forest Trail, which winds four miles through rolling hills and near a small lake that reflects the changing leaves.
Looking to take it up a notch? Hike the Hatchery Creek Park Trail, an incredible intermediate option that totals three miles in length and travels through colorful woods and wetlands. This trail also connects to the American Birkebeiner Trail, a.k.a. the Birkie, which holds North America’s largest cross-country ski marathon every winter!
If you want to up the ante even more, on September 26th, join the Birkie Trail Run—one of the most fun and unique ways to see Hayward’s fall colors! Choose from a marathon, half-marathon, relay, 10K, 5K, or trek event and run through the vibrant hues of reds and yellows.
By Bike
Trade your hiking boots for two wheels and pedal beneath Hayward Lakes’ colorful fall canopy! The Hayward area offers over 300 miles of bike trails, from paved paths and scenic county roads to rugged forest trails.
For a paved ride, hit the City of Hayward Bike Trail, offering over six miles of riding and remarkable colors. Prefer a road ride? Explore Sawyer County’s scenic county roads. With varied lengths, you can choose your distance and pace while enjoying a relaxing fall color tour.
For those looking to get off the beaten path, head to the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest. The Chequamegon Area Mountain Bike Association, a.k.a. CAMBA, maintains a regional mountain bike trail system with more than 133 miles and more than 200 miles of gravel routes. During fall, these trails glow with shades of red, yellow, and gold.
Finally, for a longer ride, be sure to check out the 74-mile Tuscobia State Trail—one of the longest rail trails in the entire state! One mile at a time, take in the incredible colors of the Hayward area and beyond.
By ATV or UTV
It’s time to see Hayward Lakes’ fall colors in one of the most exciting ways—by ATV or UTV! The Hayward area is a top-tier ATV destination, offering a truly robust system of ATV and UTV trails. Trust us, these are some of the best in the state—and some of the most beautiful in the fall.
The Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest is one of the primary off-roading hubs, home to more than 140 miles of trails. Three unique trail systems with adjoining loops offer an unforgettable way to see the changing leaves. Take your time and enjoy the ride! If you’re looking for colors and a challenge, take on the 56-mile Dead Horse Trail.
By Car
Finally, see Hayward Lakes’ fall colors from the comfort of your own car! The Hayward area is home to six stunning self-guided tours you simply can’t miss. Each tour is unique, winding through colorful forests, along lakes and flowages, and across the most scenic stretches of Sawyer County. The routes vary in length and terrain—with a mix of paved and gravel roads—so choose the tour that best fits you and your crew!
Hayward Area 73-Mile Loop
Beginning in Hayward, this 73-mile route travels through the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest and features a mix of paved and gravel roads. This route is mostly paved, but 12 miles of gravel add a touch of off-the-beaten-path adventure to the tour!
Chippewa Flowage 60-Mile Loop
This 60-mile loop offers spectacular views of the Chippewa Flowage and the surrounding forests. With so many scenic water views along the way, from lakes to cranberry bogs, it is such a beautiful route for taking in fall color reflected across the water.
Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest 70-Mile Loop
Discover the national forest just east of Hayward on this 70-mile drive through the one-and-only Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest. A few highlights? A tunnel of hardwoods, quiet lakes, and the Crystal Springs Overlook. It’s also mostly paved, with just 8.5 miles of gravel.
Winter Area 45-Mile Loop
Starting in Winter, this mostly paved 45-mile tour also travels through the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest, with scenic stretches near the Chippewa River and Lake Loretta. And there are just 10.4 miles on gravel roads!
Radisson Area 45-Mile Tour
Beginning at the intersection of Highways 70 and H in Radisson, this fully paved, 45-mile-long tour is perfect for a low-key fall drive. Travel through hardwood forests, take in vibrant views of the Blue Hills, and enjoy the colorful, rolling countryside along the way.
Stone Lake Area 48-mile Loop
The final tour begins in Stone Lake and covers 48 miles, including 14.8 miles of gravel roads. The route passes through predominantly oak forests sprinkled with maple, adding rich shades of red, orange, and gold throughout the season. It also passes near Sissabagama Lake, Lake Chetac, and the Couderay River.
Get your map here and discover your new favorite route through Hayward Lakes’ fall color!
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No matter how you choose to explore, Hayward Lakes’ fall color is ready to show off! Hike the trails, hop on your bike, hit the ATV and UTV routes, or take a scenic drive through the colorful Northwoods. The leaves won’t stay colorful forever, so now’s the time to head to Hayward Lakes. We will see you there!
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Hailey Marien: Writer for Discover Mediaworks. A born & bred Wisconsinite with a love for fishing, hunting, and enjoying the great outdoors.
