Some overlooked day hiking trails in Chippewa County, Wis.

Ice Age National Scenic Trail
at Chippewa Moraine State
Recreation Area. Photo courtesy
of Wisconsin DNR.

While much of Chippewa County, Wis., is largely farm country, split by the Chippewa River, a major Wisconsin tributary to the Mississippi, near the Barron County border, you can find a few good, overlooked hiking areas, including:
g Chippewa Moraine State Recreation Area trails – The Ice Age National Scenic Trail cuts through this public land, which also boasts an interpretative center, on County Road M, about two miles east of Wis. Hwy. 40. An Ice Age National Scientific Reserve, other trials here include three loops of 0.7 miles (Mammoth Nature Trail), 1.8 miles (Dry Lake Trail), and 4.5 miles (Circle Trail) in length.
g Marsh Miller Cedars State Natural Area trails – An extensive wetlands that will require some bushwhacking, the public land is a great birdwatching spot, boasting bald eagle and great blue heron. The area is only accessible via boat from adjoining Marsh-Miller Lake.
g Morris-Erickson County Park trails – Located off of State Hwy. 40, the county park offers a boat landing, several electric campsites, and playground. For campers, a pleasant hike is along the park's shoreline of crystal clear Long Lake.

Read more about family friendly day hiking trails in my Headin' to the Cabin guidebooks.