3 Trails for a Scenic Sunset Hike
July 20, 2022
There’s nothing quite as refreshing as a walk in the woods. Here are three trails in Boulder Junction that are the perfect place to wind down and take in the scenery at the end of the day.
North Trout Lake Nature Trail
Head south of Boulder Junction to find this short, but scenic trail on the northern edge of Trout Lake. While the trail consists of a one-mile loop, it’s got gorgeous views of North Trout Lake, perfect for taking in the sunset. There are also campsites and a boat launch just to the south of the trail if you’re looking to spend a little more time exploring Trout Lake.
How to get there: From Boulder Junction, head south on Hwy M for about 4 miles until you reach the parking area on the west side of the highway.
Catherine Wolter Wilderness Area
This wilderness area is a short drive north of Boulder Junction covers nearly 2,200 acres and contains 15 lakes and ponds, so it’s a great place to get out and enjoy the beauty of the Northwoods. The wilderness area is home to two main trails—the Mark Musolf Family Trail (2.8 miles of easy, slightly hilly terrain) and the Ripples Trail (3.1 miles—or 5 to and from the parking area—of hilly terrain with some wet areas), which pass around several of the area’s lakes, including Knife Lake, Canteen Lake and Bug Lake. There are also trails that lead to the eastern edge of Rudolph Lake and Battine Lake, giving you prime views for a sunset.
How to get there: From Boulder Junction, head north on Hwy M for 5 miles, then head northwest on Hwy B for about 7 miles. Turn right on East Bay Road to find a parking area on the east side of the road which can accommodate 10 to 15 cars.
Lumberjack Trail
This trail system in the Northern Highland-American Legion State Forest offers outstanding scenery as it winds along the Manitowish River, White Sand Lake and the Fishtrap Flowage. The trail has several segments for hiking, ranging from about 3 miles to a little under 6 miles, all with a beautiful Northwoods background. The Lumberjack system also connects to the Escanaba-Pallette Lake Trails if you’re looking for a longer hike. For the best sunset view, hike along the eastern edge of White Sand Lake.
How to get there: There are two trailheads for the Lumberjack Trail system. The first is on Concora Road—follow Old Hwy K for about a mile to get to the parking area. The second trailhead is off Hwy K east of White Sand Lake, about 5 miles from Boulder Junction.