Fall in Wisconsin is downright glorious, and one of the best places to enjoy the fresh air and colorful leaves is on the Bearskin State Trail.
The eighteen-mile trail meanders from Harshaw up to Minocqua, following the curves of the Bearskin Creek for which it’s named. It’s a mostly flat, crushed-granite path that’s perfectly suited for families traveling on foot or by bike.
Whether you kick off your excursion from the south trailhead near highways K and 51, or the north trailhead in downtown Minocqua, you’ll pass by such varied terrain as lakes, marshes, streams and fields. And you’ll encounter forests of pine, oak, spruce, birch, oak and more.
You might glimpse some wildlife, too. Deer, wild turkeys, beavers, ducks and even bears are all active this time of year.
Kids tend to love the thirteen trestles that bridge lakes and streams on the trail, formerly a railroad line that, from 1888 to 1972, was used to transport white logs. A handful of signs along the trail provide little history lessons.
For a nice shorter trek, start mid-trail near Hazelhurst (at the corner of Leigh Road and Oneida Street). A quick out-and-back takes you to the Scott Springs Trestle, passing by beautiful South Blue Lake along the way.
Whether you traverse the whole trail, or just a portion, keep in mind that Minocqua makes for a pleasant pit stop. You can relax by the town’s namesake lake or refuel with a hearty bite at the Minocqua Brewing Company. And if your kiddos still have energy to burn, Torpy Park, with its big playground, is just steps away.