She Explores: My Favorite Local Milwaukee Hiking Trails

It’s always around the fall when my urge and motivation to go hiking sky rocket. Maybe it is because I tend to be busier in the summer, or maybe it is that the weather has cooled down just enough so you can move comfortably through the woods. That motivation usually sticks around clear through the winter. There is a serenity about being out on the quieter, snow-covered trails that is hard to find otherwise.

We are lucky to have a ton of local trails on which to go wandering, so it’s hard to choose a favorite. Here are a few of my top picks:

• Lions Den Gorge

  • Anyone who asks me where they should go exploring near Milwaukee, I always say this spot first. First, I find that this spot usually isn't that crowded and I almost always can find a parking spot -- important things. But besides that, this spot is gorgeous. It is a nature preserve that overlooks Lake Michigan on bluffs. There are trails that are accessible to many different levels of hiking. And at the end of the trail, there is a staircase that allow you to get down to the water and walk along the coast. I always seem to find some treasures while walking along the shore.

• Emma Carlin Trail

  • If you are looking for a good workout, this one is perfect. The trail is geared toward mountain bikers, but there are very well laid out directions for walkers to go one way on the trail and bikers to go the opposite direction. So easy to navigate. But, because the trail caters to mountain bikers, there are lots of hills and lots of curves. It definitely gives your glutes a workout! There is also a great lookout point just about halfway around the trail where you can take a break.

• Scuppernong Trails

  • Maybe it is the time of the year I tend to go hiking here, but this area gives off all of the Pacific Northwest feels, or as much as you can get in Wisconsin. There are a couple different trails you can choose from and each has its own benefits. I recommend trying them all to get a different feel each time! It is definitely a bit of a drive to get there from Milwaukee proper, but so worth it! The trails are longer, so you can definitely spend a good chunk of time there.

What are your favorite trails near Milwaukee? Tag us with #howidonorth on all your adventures!