Walk them, ride them, run them:
Enjoy the trails of Northeast Wisconsin
“In every walk with nature, one received far more than he seeks.” – John Muir
Whether you are looking to bike a paved trail along Lake Michigan or take a peaceful stroll while enjoying flora and fauna, you will find a trail to suit your needs in Northeast Wisconsin by traveling Scenic HWY 42.
Mariners Trail
Travelers on the Mariners Trail will be spoiled with beautiful vistas of beaches, parks, forests and the sparkling waters of Lake Michigan. Supplementing the scenic landscapes are several trailside gardens and public art pieces.
The 6-mile paved pathway traces the shoreline of the Great Lake, connecting the cities of Two Rivers and Manitowoc. The route is easy and pleasant, being relatively straight and flat with numerous parks along the way.
On the south side, trail-goers also have access to the Wisconsin Maritime Museum, where visitors can learn about the sailing and shipbuilding heritage of the region and board the World War II submarine USS Cobia for a tour.
Parking can be found at Lake Shore Park (Memorial Drive in Two Rivers) and Lakeview Park (Maritime Drive in Manitowoc).
Directions:
Rawley Point Trail
The Rawley Point Trail is a winding, hard-packed limestone pathway from the harbor town of Two Rivers on the shores of Lake Michigan to Point Beach State Forest. The 6-mile, sometimes hilly, trail offers scenic views of the lake, beaches, dunes and forests.
At its northern endpoint, you’ll arrive at a highlight of your journey: the Rawley Point Lighthouse, which has been operated by the U.S. Coast Guard since 1853. At 113 feet, it is one of the tallest lighthouses on the Great Lakes.
Parking is available in Point Beach State Forest, off County Road O.
Directions:
Ahnapee State Trail
Near Sunset Road in Kewaunee County, the trail branches off in three directions, west to Luxemburg, northeast towards Algoma and southeast towards the city of Kewaunee.
The trail is used for walking, running, bicycling horseback riding (April 15 to November 15), cross-country skiing, snowmobiling and snowshoeing.
Leashed pets are allowed and owners must pick up after your pet.
Ice Age National Scenic Trail
The Ice Age Trail follows two sections of the Ahnapee State Trail corridor, for about 17 miles from downtown Sturgeon Bay to Algoma and for another 10 miles from the city of Kewaunee through the C.D. Besadny Fish and Wildlife Area to County Highway A.
Directions: From Rogers Street Lighthouse in Two Rivers, from Jackson St.turn right on HWY 42 (22nd St.). Head north on HWY 42 about 2 miles, turn right on Viceroy Rd, turn left on County O and drive about 2 miles and Point Beach State Forest park entrance road will be on your right.
Alternate Route: From Rogers Street Lighthouse in Two Rivers, from Jackson St.turn right on HWY 42 (22nd St.). Stay on 22nd St. which turns into Sandy Bay Rd (County O) for about 4 miles, Point Beach State Forest park entrance road will be on your right.
An annual park sticker or trail pass is required to visit Wisconsin state parks. You can purchase a sicker online on the DNR website.
Crescent Beach Boardwalk
Enjoy the Lake Michigan Shoreline with a walk along Algoma’s Crescent Beach boardwalk. Connecting the Algoma Visitor Center to the Algoma Marina, the ½-mile boardwalk is handicap accessible on both ends.
The award-winning boardwalk is made from recycled plastic lumber and was built by volunteers.
Pedestrians only please. Leashed pets are allowed.
Directions: Take HWY 42 right in to the center of Algoma.
Scenic HWY 42 Communities
Manitowoc
Stroll the riverwalk to Lake Michigan or check out Manitowoc's 8th Street Historic District.
Two Rivers
A community defined by water where the scenic East & West Twin Rivers meet at a sandy point extending into Lake Michigan.
Kewaunee
Experience some of the best fishing on Lake Michigan, take a stroll through the Marquette Historic District, or relax on the beach.
Algoma
Reel in the big one on Lake Michigan, stroll the sand beach & boardwalk, or relax with a glass of wine after a day of shopping.