Rail trail · Wisconsin
Bearskin State Trail
A 21.5-mile former railroad corridor through Northwoods forest and lakes between Minocqua and the Tomahawk area, on a smooth crushed-granite surface that makes it one of Wisconsin's classic family rail-trails.
Length
21.5 miles
Surface
Crushed stone
Route
Point to point
Endpoints
Minocqua to the Harshaw / Tomahawk area
Season
Best May to October for biking and walking; groomed for snowmobiling and some winter use after snowfall
Plan your ride or walk
The Bearskin is the Northwoods rail-trail most Wisconsin families start with: 21.5 mostly flat miles of crushed granite from Minocqua south through pine and hardwood forest, past lakes and over former-railroad trestles. It runs point to point, so plan a turnaround or a shuttle between Minocqua and the southern end. A Wisconsin State Trail Pass is required for cyclists 16 and older. Summer is prime for biking and walking; the corridor sees snowmobile use once snow falls.
Getting there
The northern trailhead is in downtown Minocqua, about 3.5 hours north of Madison off Highway 51. Parking and trail access are in Minocqua and at several road crossings to the south, so you can ride out and back any distance rather than the full length.
Official trail information
Confirm current conditions, closures, and any required trail pass on the managing agency’s page.
Wisconsin DNR: Bearskin State TrailWhat to bring
Gear keyed to a long, flat trail day: footwear, hydration, sun protection, and a pack sized for the distance.
What to pack
Plan with our tools
Frequently asked questions
How long is the Bearskin State Trail?
The Bearskin State Trail runs about 21.5 miles point to point, from Minocqua south toward the Tomahawk area, on a flat former-railroad grade. Most riders do an out-and-back of whatever distance fits their day rather than the full one-way length.
Do you need a pass for the Bearskin State Trail?
Yes. Like other Wisconsin state trails, cyclists 16 and older need a Wisconsin State Trail Pass, available as a daily or annual pass. Walking and running are free.
What is the surface of the Bearskin State Trail?
The Bearskin is surfaced in smooth crushed granite, suitable for hybrid and gravel bikes, comfortable walking, and strollers. It is flat the whole way as a former rail corridor.
More Wisconsin trails
Looking for parks instead? Browse state parks by state.