The best walks and hikes in Chippewa County

Yes, many trails in the area are dog-friendly, but policies can vary. State parks like Lake Wissota State Park and Brunet Island State Park generally allow leashed dogs on most hiking trails, but not in picnic areas, beaches, or buildings. Always check the specific park's regulations before you go. The Old Abe State Trail is also a great option for a walk with your leashed pet.

Chippewa County offers several great options for families. The Lakeshore Trail loop along Half Moon Lake is a gentle 2-mile (3.2 km) walk that's perfect for all ages. For a slightly longer but still easy outing, the paved Centennial Park loop in Altoona is another excellent choice.

While Chippewa County is known more for its lakes and rivers, you can find impressive waterfalls nearby. Big Falls County Park, a short drive away, is a popular destination featuring a large waterfall on the Eau Claire River. The trails there can be steep and challenging in sections but offer rewarding views of the falls.

Yes, the most significant long-distance trail is the Ice Age National Scenic Trail. A 23-mile segment of this thousand-mile trail runs through Chippewa County, particularly within the Chippewa Moraine State Recreation Area. This section offers a more rugged, backcountry experience through a landscape of kettle lakes and glacial moraines.

Many trails in the area are designed as loops, making for convenient hikes without backtracking. The Rumbly Bridge loop from Glen Loch 2WP1095 Dam is a pleasant 4.3-mile (7 km) circular route. For another option with riverside views, consider the Chippewa River Bridge – Lakeshore Trail loop, which is a relatively flat 4.2-mile (6.8 km) walk.

Yes, there are several free options. Trails within municipal parks like Irvine Park in Chippewa Falls or the Riverview Reserve (Area 178) are generally free to access. However, be aware that State Parks such as Lake Wissota, Brunet Island, and the Chippewa Moraine State Recreation Area require a vehicle admission sticker for entry.

Trail conditions vary by season. Most park trails are well-maintained, but natural surface trails can become muddy after rain. For the most current information on trail status, especially for state-managed lands, it's best to check the official park websites. For example, you can find updates for the Chippewa Moraine State Recreation Area directly on the DNR site. All routes on komoot include detailed maps for navigation.

Absolutely. Winter transforms the landscape and opens up new recreational opportunities. Many hiking trails, including those in Lake Wissota State Park and the Chippewa Moraine area, are popular for snowshoeing. The paved Old Abe State Trail is often used for cross-country skiing and winter walking. Always dress in layers and wear appropriate footwear for icy or snowy conditions.

The trails in this region are highly rated by the komoot community. Hikers often praise the scenic beauty of the glacial landscape, with its rolling hills and numerous kettle lakes. The well-marked paths along the Chippewa River and around Lake Wissota are also frequently mentioned as highlights.

While the area is known for its accessible trails, you can find more challenging terrain. The segments of the Ice Age Trail within the Chippewa Moraine State Recreation Area offer a more rugged experience with constant elevation changes over the glacial moraines. These trails provide a good workout for those looking for something beyond a flat walk.

Several parks and reserves are local favorites for hiking:

• Lake Wissota State Park: A highly regarded park with over 18 miles of trails through forests and prairies along the lake.
• Chippewa Moraine State Recreation Area: Praised for its beautiful, unspoiled glacial features and the Ice Age Trail segments.
• Brunet Island State Park: Offers scenic trails along the Chippewa and Fisher rivers.
• Riverview Reserve (Area 178): A popular spot near Chippewa Falls with trails offering great views of the river and dam.