All about the Heart of Vilas County Bike Trail

May 22, 2024

Boulder Junction is home to a one-of-a-kind recreational gem: the Heart of Vilas County Bike Trail passes through five communities in northern Wisconsin, offering outstanding riding for all ages on a scenic paved trail. Here’s what you need to know about this one-of-a-kind Northwoods trail.

What is the Heart of Vilas County Bike Trail?

The Heart of Vilas County Bike Trail is a scenic 52-mile trail that runs from St. Germain in southern Vilas County and passes through Sayner, Boulder Junction, and Manitowish Waters before ending in Mercer in Iron County.

The asphalt trail crosses a wide variety of landscapes, from forests and wetlands to prairie areas and alongside glacial lakes and is appropriate for bikers of all ages and skill levels. There are several trailheads that offer parking and easy access, and several bicycle maintenance and repair stations can be found along the route.

The Heart of Vilas County Bike Trail has also been recognized as a National Recreational Trail, a special distinction from the Department of the Interior that highlights exemplary trails of local and regional significance.

Learn more about the Heart of Vilas County Bike Trail.

Do I need a trail pass to ride the Heart of Vilas County Bike Trail?

A trail pass is not required to ride the Heart of Vilas County Bike Trail.

Where is Boulder Junction’s section of the Heart of Vilas County Bike Trail located?

Boulder Junction’s portion of the Heart of Vilas County Bike Trail passes through the Northern Highland-American Legion State Forest and through Boulder Junction’s charming downtown.

Several trailheads with parking can be found in Boulder Junction:

• • Crystal Lake Campground (Hwy N)
  • Intersection of Hwy M and Hwy N
  • Cathedral Point (Hwy M)
  • Community Sports & Rec Park (Hwy M)
  • Intersection of Hwy M and Dairymen’s Road
  • Intersection of Hwy K and Hwy K

Some highlights of Boulder Junction’s section of the trail include Crystal Lake, North Trout Lake, and Nichols Beach.

Looking for a scenic detour? Riders can find off-trail routes with good views at Nichols Lake Road off Hwy H, which passes the park and beach area, and Bear Lake Road off Hwy K, which takes riders to Little Crooked Lake and Round Lake.

Is there anything new on the trail?

Construction is soon to be completed on a new section of paved trail that completes the 14-mile North Creek Trail Loop on the Heart of Vilas County Trail. The new trail will run from the intersection of County Hwy K and County Hwy H west of downtown Boulder Junction along the east side of County Hwy H to North Creek Road, which allows riders to connect back to the existing trail along County Hwy M returning to Boulder Junction.

Where can I find bike rentals or equipment in Boulder Junction?

Coontail Adventures in downtown Boulder Junction offers bike rentals, including electric assist bikes, mountain bikes, youth bikes, and trailers. 

Find more information about biking in Boulder Junction.

Before you ride, don’t forget to download the free Map It Vilas County trails app, which will help you navigate your route along the Heart of Vilas County Bike Trail and dozens of other trails throughout the Northwoods.