Way up north in Vilas County lies a gorgeous bike trail that stretches for more than 50 miles. A bicycle really is the best way to explore this part of our great state and the Heart of Vilas County Paved Bike Trail System connects St. Germain, Sayner, Boulder Junction, Manitowish Waters, and Mercer as it winds through the Northern Highland American Legion Forest.
There are 20 different parking lots along this trail, meaning you can sign on for as many or as few miles as you think you can handle.
Much of the path travels through the Northern Highland-American Legion State Forest. Established in 1925 to protect the headwaters of the Wisconsin, Flambeau and Manitowish rivers, the forest occupies more than 232,000 acres in northern Wisconsin. You never know what you might pedal past while you're on the trail, from beautiful plants and trees to animals that live right here in the forest.
There are waysides, restrooms and stopping points all along the trail, as well as campground and hotels. You could spend a few days exploring this beautiful part of the state. If you're leisurely, you might stop off in Sayner to explore the Awassa Nature Preserve & Hiking Trail, a flat, easy hike.
The very best part of this trail is that there's a stopping point right at Crystal Lake, which just so happens to have a gorgeous beach waiting for you to enjoy.
Pack a picnic lunch and spend your morning working up an appetite. End up at Crystal Lake where you can refuel and relax after your hard work and then take a dip in the water to complete your cool down. It's the perfect end to a wonderful day on this spectacular trail.
Everything you could ever want to know about the trail is available on their website, including detailed information on each segment, where you can rent bikes and where the super convenient bike fix stations are located along the route. They’re really thought of everything.
You can start the Heart of Vilas Trail at the main trailhead behind the St. Germain Chamber of Commerce, where Highway 70 meets Highway 155. The Chamber of Commerce Address is 473 WI-70, St Germain, WI 54558.
