Hiking Near Balsam Lake, Wisconsin: The Best Trails to Explore and Where to Stay
If your perfect getaway includes fresh air, peaceful forests, scenic overlooks, and miles of beautiful trails, Balsam Lake is an excellent destination. Located in the heart of Polk County, you'll find several parks and nature areas within an easy drive, making it the perfect home base for a hiking adventure.
After a day on the trail, there's nothing better than returning to a comfortable room where you can relax, recharge, and get ready for tomorrow's adventure. That's exactly what you'll find at LumberJill Lodge.
Rest in this King size bed after a hike.
Top Hiking Parks Near Balsam Lake
1. Interstate State Park
Distance from Lumberjill Lodge: Approximately 30 minutes (22 miles)
Located along the scenic St. Croix River in St. Croix Falls, Interstate State Park is Wisconsin's oldest state park. It's famous for dramatic basalt cliffs, glacial potholes, river overlooks, and wooded hiking trails ranging from easy walks to more challenging climbs.
Perfect for:
Scenic overlooks
Rock formations
River views
Photography
Family-friendly hikes
2. Governor Knowles State Forest
Distance from LumberJill Lodge: Approximately 35 minutes (25 miles)
Covering thousands of acres, Governor Knowles State Forest offers peaceful hiking through hardwood forests, rolling hills, and wildlife habitats. Many trails connect with the Gandy Dancer State Trail, making it a great destination for both hikers and cyclists.
Perfect for:
Quiet forest hikes
Bird watching
Wildlife viewing
Longer trail adventures
3. Straight Lake State Park
Distance from LumberJill Lodge: Approximately 25 minutes (18 miles)
Known for its crystal-clear lake, wetlands, and pine forests, Straight Lake State Park offers gentle trails that showcase Wisconsin's natural beauty. The park is ideal for those looking for a peaceful hike away from larger crowds.
Highlights include:
Scenic lake views
Boardwalk sections
Forest trails
Excellent wildlife viewing
4. Stower Seven Lakes State Trail
Distance from LumberJill Lodge: Approximately 20 minutes (15 miles)
Stretching for more than 14 miles, this former railroad corridor is perfect for hikers looking for an easy, mostly flat route. The trail passes through forests, wetlands, and beautiful countryside, making it ideal for a leisurely walk or bike ride.
Great for:
Beginner hikers
Families
Long-distance walks
Bird watching
5. Park Deaver Walking Trails
Distance from LumberJill Lodge: Less than 5 minutes (about 1 mile)
Located right in Balsam Lake, Park Deaver features peaceful walking trails through wooded areas, making it perfect for an early morning stroll or an evening walk after dinner. It's an easy way to enjoy nature without leaving town.
What to Pack for Your Hiking Trip
A little preparation can make your hike safer and more enjoyable.
Hiking Checklist
Essentials
Comfortable hiking shoes or boots
Lightweight backpack
Reusable water bottle or hydration pack
Trail snacks or energy bars
Phone with offline maps
Portable power bank
Sunglasses
Hat or cap
Safety Items
First aid kit
Sunscreen
Insect repellent
Rain jacket
Flashlight or headlamp
Emergency whistle
Optional Extras
Trekking poles
Camera
Binoculars
Picnic lunch
Extra socks
Cooling towel
Why Stay at LumberJill Lodge After Your Hike?
After spending hours exploring Wisconsin's beautiful trails, comfort matters.
LumberJill Lodge is the perfect place to unwind after your outdoor adventure.
Here's why hikers love staying with us:
Comfortable beds for a restful night's sleep
Cozy, clean rooms to help you recharge
Convenient location near multiple hiking destinations
Free parking
Easy access to restaurants, coffee shops, and downtown Balsam Lake
Peaceful atmosphere away from the crowds
Whether you're planning one day of hiking or exploring a different trail every day, LumberJill Lodge gives you a comfortable place to return to each evening.
Turn Your Hike Into a Weekend Getaway
Why rush home after a long hike?
Spend the evening relaxing in Balsam Lake, enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, watch the sunset over the lake, and wake up refreshed for another day of adventure.
At LumberJill Lodge, you're never far from Wisconsin's best outdoor experiences.
Book your stay today and discover why hikers choose LumberJill Lodge as their base camp for exploring the natural beauty of Polk County.
