Vilas County, Wisconsin is in the heart of the Northwoods of Wisconsin. This beautiful region of the state is filled with clean lakes, quiet stands of pine trees, calling loons, native wildflowers, and Northwoods peace. There are over 1,300 lakes in Vilas County – one of the largest concentrations of freshwater lakes in the world! One of the best ways to enjoy the beauty of Vilas County is on The Heart of Vilas Trail.
Heart of Vilas County National Recreational Trail
The 52-mile paved Heart of Vilas Bike Trail System is recognized as a National Recreation Trail. This unique trail connects the 5 unique Northwoods communities of St. Germain, Sayner, Boulder Junction, Manitowish Waters, and Mercer, Wisconsin. The Northern Highland American Legion Forest is home to the trail, and each of its communities offer unique opportunities to enjoy the beauty of the Northwoods. With 20 different trailheads/parking areas to choose from, you can start your ride anywhere along the trail.
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Heart of Vilas Trail Communities
St. Germain, Wisconsin
To access the trail in St. Germain, the main trailhead is at the Chamber of Commerce in downtown St. Germain at the intersection of Highways 155 and 70. You’ll find parking at a lot on Old Hwy 70, on South Bay Road. On the route to Sayner, be sure to check out the Awassa Nature Preserve & Hiking Trail. Awassa is a beautiful, shaded trail that travels through fir, maple, oak, and pine forests.
Sayner/Star Lake
To access the trail in the Sayner/Star Lake area, park at the intersection of Highway N and Froelich Drive. From here, you can ride east toward Crystal Lake, or south towards St. Germain. Heading north, you’ll find one of the most beautiful parts of the trail. The stretch of trail along Trout Lake is gorgeous, quiet, and scenic.
Boulder Junction, Wisconsin
The Heart of Vilas trail passes through downtown Boulder Junction and the surrounding Northern Highland-American Legion State Forest. It is the prettiest stretch, in my humble opinion. This section can be accessed via several parking areas/trailheads as follows:
- Crystal Lake Campground – Highway N
- Intersection of Highways M and N
- Cathedral Point (Highway M)
- Community Sports & Rec Park (Highway M)
- Intersection of Dairymen’s Road and Highway M (Northern leg)
- Highway K and Camp Manito-wish Road
- Intersection of Highways K and H
- Highway K at Little Rice Creek
For detailed trail maps on the go, the All Trails app has been my go to for years. Search over 450,000 trails by state and type with detailed maps, photos, and trail reviews. Sign up for a Free 7-day trial HERE.Â
Biking Gear | Heart of Vilas Trail
Weather is ever-changing in Wisconsin! It can be chilly in the morning and evening hours. For a comfortable hoodie for the cooler days, consider Outdoor Research’s Freewheel MTB Half Zip Hoodie. Available in Men’s or Women’s in multiple bright colors. Fall Gear & Apparel up to 60% Off. Jackets & Layers Up To 65% Off
Heart of Vilas Trail Lakes – Stop for a Swim!
After a long ride, nothing is better than a dip in a cool, clear Northwoods lake. Consider a stop at Crystal Lake Beach just south of downtown Boulder Junction. This crystal clear lake has a sandy beach, nature center, and picnic area surrounded by tall pines. Two other swimming spots are Nichols Beach, or the beach at North Trout Lake.
Northwoods Eats | Boulder Junction
If you’re hungry after a long ride and find yourself in downtown Boulder Junction, you’re in luck! There are many options for an appetizer or post-ride meal. By far my favorite casual stop in downtown Boulder Junction is Aqualand Alehouse. Aqualand’s outdoor patio is a great place to enjoy a bite, enjoy one of 20 craft beers, or relax after a long ride.
Boulder Junction Coffee Company
If you’re in the mood for a hot (or iced!) coffee, be sure to stop in to Boulder Junction Coffee Company , located at 10356 Main Street in downtown Boulder Junction. Open daily from 6am-3pm, the menu includes Colectivo coffee (my personal favorite), sandwiches, bakery items, grab and go cooler items, and all day breakfast. Check out the menu HERE.
Coontail Sports | Boulder Junction
If you pass through downtown Boulder Junction, be sure to check out Coontail at 5466 Park Street. A staple in the community, Coontail is the place to stop for all of your recreational needs or bike repair. Ebikes, kayaks, canoes, water carpets, and stand up paddleboards are available for rent! Coontail has friendly, helpful staff and a wonderful selection of bike gear and apparel. I always find something there for one of my outdoor adventures!
In addition, if you’re looking for a healthy snack or beverage for your ride, be sure to stop in to Lakewood Market, adjacent to Coontail Sports.
Manitowish Waters, Wisconsin
9.7 miles north of Boulder Junction, the beautiful town of Manitowish Waters awaits. The Northwoods beauty continues along this stretch of trail. The trail can be accessed in multiple locations in Manitowish Waters:
- Manitowish Waters Community Center
- Rest Lake Park
- Koller Park
- North Lakeland Discovery Center
If you’re in search of some caffeine, a smoothie, salad or sandwich, be sure to check out Dixie’s Coffeehouse. Located on the shore of Vance Lake in downtown Manitowish Waters, it is a perfect stop for a coffee or quick bite along the trail. Dixie’s even maintains a live webcam with a view of Vance Lake!
If you’re in the mood for a post-ride meal, Manny’s Parkside is an excellent option. With delicious menus, live music and events throughout the summer, it’s definitely worth a visit.
Mercer, Wisconsin
Just 7 miles north of Manitowish Waters, you’ll arrive in Mercer. Along the route between Manitowish and Mercer, you’ll cross a 40-foot bridge over the Manitowish River. This scenic bridge is part of the Mercer Hike and Bike Trail. While you’re in town, check out Snow’s Family Market!
Northwoods Beauty Meets Big Water
Who isn’t a fan of beautiful Northwoods Lakes? If you love to recreate on Vilas County’s many lakes, but are itching to see some big water, continue north from Vilas County into the Upper Peninsula of Michigan and make your way to the city of Marquette. Located on the southern shore of Lake Superior, Marquette has a population of 20,000 and is known for its recreational opportunities, scenic views, and great food.
For more information on recreation, restaurants, and unique lodging options in Marquette, be sure to check out my 2025 Marquette, Michigan Adventure Guide.
Marquette Michigan 2025 Adventure Guide: Recreation, Culture, and Food in the Upper Peninsula
Biking Packs
For a biking specific pack, consider Osprey’s Kitsuma or Katari hydration packs for bike specific packs in 1.5 liter, 3 liter, and 7 liter sizes. I have used the Katari 3 pack for several years now. It is just large enough for extra water, snacks, and a light layer of clothing. The bright yellow color also adds extra visibility for road crossings.
For a lumbar off-the-back pack, check out the 1.5 liter Seral 7 hydration pack, with enough room for a spare tube and patch kit.  For something a tad larger, I recommend the Raptor 10 with hipbelt pockets and shoulder harness. Osprey’s Packfinder will help you to find the pack that will best fit your frame and activity.
Support This Beautiful Trail System!
You can pick up a Heart of Vilas Trail map at the Chambers of Commerce in each of the 5 communities along the trail, each of which fund and maintain their respective portion of the trail. You can find a copy of this map in several locations along the trail, or request a paper map be mailed to you.
Your small donation of $2.00 is suggested for a copy of the map, and goes towards future trail construction, maintenance, and improvements. Download a here. Download the Map It! Vilas County app for mobile access to all of Vilas County’s trails.
Below are a few organizations accepting donations:
Boulder Junction North Creek Loop (new extension along Highway H)
Boulder Junction Community Foundation
#upnorth, #northwoodswisconsin, #biking, #wisconsin, #ospreypacks, @ospreypacks
Enjoy your ride on this beautiful Vilas County trail!
-Erin
