The Heart of Vilas Bike Path from Manitowish Waters to St. Germain is just over 40 miles of beautiful, scenic, paved trail cutting through towering pine forests and crystal clean lakes and streams. It travels through the historic little towns of Manitowish Waters, Boulder Junction, Sayner and St. Germain. Each community has its own Northwoods charm with walk up ice cream shops, taverns and picnic spots. Winding through the forest you'll come across old hand painted road and family cabin signs and you might even pass by a flea market, parade or festival during the summer months.
The Heart of Vilas is a nationally recognized recreation trail and is a very loved and cared for staple for anyone who enjoys nature and exploring. It is often used by campers coming and going from the campgrounds in the Northern Highland American Legion State Forest. You'll pass by North Trout Lake Campground where there is a bathroom and behind Crystal Lake Campground where there are picnic tables and bathrooms as well. You'll be on paved bike path most of the time with the exception of the occasional road crossing and about 3 miles that you'll follow along on an old road. It is well marked and easy to follow with a lot of flat sections and a few punchy hills near Boulder Junction and a few gradual ones throughout. There are bathrooms and parks every 5 miles or so with the longest stretches without on the St. Germain side.
The route follows the natural topography of the land so it winds through the woods with smooth twists and turns and you'll be able to enjoy the views of several lakes and the sounds of migrating birds and maybe even a bald eagle or two. You get a good mix of shady forest with moss lined sections and exposed areas, too. You'll go over wooden bridges and sometimes along highway but, not for long.
The start and end of your choosing is the St. Germain chamber of commerce which has a community park, bathrooms and a grocery store across the street. Manitowish Waters Town Hall has nice bathrooms as well. This is a very friendly route with lots of memorable points of interest that showcases the heritage of the Northwoods. No trail pass is required and there is a trailhead on hwy M/N at about the halfway mark that has ample parking and even a bike tool station if you have crew support that might find that handy.
More information and details can be found on Biketheheart.org. I invite you to come out and experience this Wisconsin gem tucked up in the Northwoods. Treat yourself with a Friday Fish Fry or a sweet treat afterwards. Cathy's Ice cream in St. Germain, Mad Dog Jakes in Boulder Junction or The Corner Store in Sayner.
