5 Great 10,000-Step Trails in Northeast Wisconsin

By Kristy Fast

Summer is a wonderful time to explore new areas and try some new hikes or walks. We know it is recommended to get 10,000 steps in a day, why not get all those steps while enjoying nature?

Check out some trails in northeast Wisconsin that offer longer hikes to hit your daily steps goal.

Navarino Loop Trail – Navarino Wildlife Area

Distance: 4.6-mile loop
Difficulty: Easy
Pets allowed: Dogs on leash allowed

Located near Shawano, the Navarino Wildlife Area includes 15,000 acres of wetlands, forests, prairies and agricultural fields. Good for all skill levels, the Navarino Wildlife Area is a source of endless activity potential.

You can pick and from many different trail types and durations, depending on your desired length and difficulty. Be sure to check out the Navarino Nature Center before you leave and learn more about this beautiful northern haven.

Barkhausen Waterfowl Preserve

Distance: 4.8-mile loop
Difficulty: Moderate
Pets allowed: No

Head up to the Green Bay area and you’ll find the Barkhausen Waterfowl Preserve. Offering nearly 10 miles of trails, the Barkhausen Waterfowl Preserve is an exceptional place to hike year-round. As the name suggests, you may see plenty of water birds thanks to the large lake. The main trail is flat and easy to traverse. For those who want a more challenging hike, however, you’ll find plenty of trails with varying difficulties and lengths throughout.

For the young at heart, check out the Barkhausen Sensory Woods. This unique landscaped area along a short trail allows you to interact with elements for the senses. For instance, you’ll see (and hear) bamboo chimes, raised garden beds, a sensory wall and a woodworking table. The trail and elements are accessible by foot or wheelchair with several benches scattered throughout for rest or quiet contemplation.

University of Wisconsin-Green Bay Arboretum

Distance: 5.2-mile loop
Difficulty: Easy
Pets allowed: No

The UWGB Arboretum offers a nice hike around the university campus. There are multiple trails and sections of the arboretum that offer different landscapes. Take the trail through the woods rather than on the gravel to have a more serene experience. Even though you are not far from the city, you will enjoy the forest surroundings and wildlife.

Peninsula State Park

Distance: 4.1-mile loop
Difficulty: Moderate
Pets allowed: Dogs on leash allowed

Located near Fish Creek, the beautiful and sprawling Peninsula State Park at the northern tip of Door County features beautiful wildflowers, plenty of geography and lush evergreen forest. A segment of the Eagle Trail at Peninsula State Parks runs parallel to the lake, allowing you to take in the beauty of Lake Michigan. Being on the lake also lets you see staggering rock formations and caves.

Although Eagle Tower was taken down a few years ago, you’ll still take in plenty of beautiful views, all while running up the step count on your favorite fitness tracker.

Hartman Creek State Park Loop

Distance: 4.3-mile loop
Difficulty: Easy
Pets allowed: Dogs on leash allowed

Near Waupaca, you’ll find the Hartman Creek State Park, which has a beautiful lake and excellent trails for all skill levels. Among the landscapes at Hartman Creek, you’ll find pine plantations, hardwood forest, open fields and several small lakes. The Ice Age Trail also flows through the Hartman Creek State Park as it connects the Waupaca River Segment to the Emmons Creek Segment, so the sky is the limit when it comes to the length of your hike.