By Taylor J. Hale
Staff Writer

STEVENS POINT – They call Stevens Point the Gateway to the Pineries for a reason.

The area is lush with gorgeous trees, foliage, and stunning natural landscapes. Breathtaking scenic trails run throughout the city, offering residents a chance to take in the picturesque forests and wildlife of Portage County.

Here are just a few scenic hiking trails available in the area for visitors and locals to enjoy this summer.

Schmeeckle Lake Loop Trail

Schmeeckle Reserve. (UWSP Photo)

The Lake Loop Trail located near the Schmeeckle Visitor Center offers walkers, joggers, and bikers a flourishing trail around the mirror-like Lake Joanis. The roughly one-mile trail gives visitors a chance to connect with nature in a quiet and tranquil environment. Stop by the reserve’s visitor center after your hike to learn more about area wildlife.

Parking is available at the Schmeeckle Visitor Center.

River Pines Trail Section

Part of the Green Circle, the River Pines Trail allows hikers a chance to follow along the Wisconsin River shoreline — featuring small islands, rocky outcroppings, and a scenic bridge. The 2.7-mile section of trail is also available to bikers and pets.

Northside trail parking is available near the end of Hofmeister Drive.

McDill Trail Section

A trail at Iverson Park. (Taylor Hale Photo)

Also part of the Green Circle, the McDill Trail gives walkers a chance to relax under the shade of massive pine trees as they walk along its quiet gravel path. The heavily forested two-mile section of trail is perfect for hikers and bikers who are looking to unwind.
Parking is available off of McDill Avenue.

Iverson Park Trails

While parts of the Green Circle pass through Iverson, one of the city’s oldest and largest parks, other smaller in-park trail sections hide in the forests scattered around the beach. Some of these stone-pathways allow visitors a chance to experience the beauty of the Plover River and Wisconsin waterfowl in an unmatched atmosphere.

Parking is available throughout Iverson Park.

What are your favorite hiking trails in Portage County? Share them with the community on our Facebook: www.facebook.com/pcgazette.