The Green Circle Trail

An award-winning 26-mile hiking and biking nature trail that encircles the Stevens Point, Wisconsin area.

Stevens Point, Wisconsin area's award-winning nature trail for hiking, biking, bird watching, and many more outdoor activites. The 26 mile trail runs through nature preserve areas, river bottoms, river edges, residential areas, parks, and towering pine and hardwood forests.

The Green Circle is a 26-mile scenic hiking and biking trail that loops through the Stevens Point area and connects with over 20 miles of additional trails. It winds through forests and parks, over wetlands, and along rivers, recalling the days of huge pineries, pioneer settlements, and the lore of the Wisconsin and Plover Rivers.

Since 1989, Portage County residents, businesses, local governments, and the university have worked together to develop the Green Circle, one of the first in the nation to encircle an entire community.

The main loop of the Green Circle is made up of 12 connecting trail segments (click here to view a map). All urban residents are within 10 minutes of the trail system, and yet, more than 80% of the Green Circle travels through secluded parks and natural areas.

About Us

The Green Circle is for all ages. It aims to preserve natural areas while bringing them to our doorstep - for active recreation or quiet contemplation.

Wildlife viewing opportunities abound. Near Lake Joanis in Schmeeckle Reserve and along the Wisconsin and Plover rivers, ducks, geese, beavers, eagles, songbirds, herons and deer may be seen. Wildflowers, ferns ,stately pines and deciduous trees grace the trails. Besides hiking, biking and jogging, visitors can use certain areas to fish, canoe, photograph, cross-country ski, rollerblade or rest

Wooden footbridges and boardwalks cross wetland areas. The trail includes a picturesque steel footbridge and underpass. Most of the trail is surfaced with crushed granite; some sections have woodchips or blacktop. Many are handicapped accessible.

Explore Related Categories