A two-wheeled adventure is waiting for you in St. Germain. The community is home to some of the best bike trails in the Northwoods. Pick your poison: an easy-riding trail for families, an exhilarating collection of single track mountain bikes trails for thrill seekers, some tranquil nature trails for nature lovers, or a system the beckons winter riders. All you need here is a bike and a little time to enjoy the beauty of the Northwoods. If you’re in town for vacation, the trails are easy to access for a quick ride, and some lodging properties even have bikes on site for you to borrow. If you’re a serious rider, St. Germain is also a great basecamp for a biking getaway – there are some awesome trails near town, and even more trail systems a short drive away.
Some great Northwoods bike rides are waiting for you– here’s a quick guide on where to ride in St. Germain.
Off road thrill: Fern Ridge Trail
In a rugged area of woodland, in the town of St. Germain, there’s a trail system that welcomes mountain bikers who are seeking a fun forest ride. The Fern Ridge Trail branches off a central hub that’s just off a short connector trail to a parking area; it’s all well-marked with signs. There are four single-track loops that total a little over four miles. There are also two short hiking trails, with each path totaling about three-quarters of a mile. The Fern Ridge Trail are safely separated, and the hiking trails have some nice views of the mountain bike trails. If you don’t feel like a ride, you can enjoy a nice walk and watch friends or family carve up the trails. There’s a pleasant place to relax at the trailhead, after your ride. The trails are fun for riders of all skill levels – there are places where you can bypass the more challenging features. But if you’re looking for a thrill, you’ll find it on the Fern Ridge Trail!
Paved adventures: The Heart of Vilas County Bike Trail
St. Germain is a trailhead for the wonderful paved Heart of Vilas Trails System. You can find the trailhead in town, right outside the Visitor’s Center. This expansive paved trail is a family-friendly ride that also passes through Sayner, Boulder Junction, Manitowish Waters, and Mercer. The trail stretches over 50 miles and it has become a big a biking destination – it has even been named a National Recreation Trail. Ride as little or as much as you want on the Heart of Vilas; the trail passes many of St. Germain businesses, so you may want to start our end your ride with a meal or a cool beverage. The trail will take you through some beautiful and wild scenery, but it’s paved, so any bike will work well on the trail.
Wild terrain: Shannon Lake Trails
Just north of St. Germain you’ll find the beautiful Shannon Lake Trails, a destination for nature lovers. The trails are open for hiking and biking and they are also a destination for winter fat biking. There are two trailheads – one is off of County Highway G, the other is located off of Found Lake Road. The trails traverse gently rolling terrain and there are various marked loops ranging from 1.9 to 6.5 miles. It’s a great place to see wildlife, and there are a couple of spots where you can get close to the edge of Shannon Lake.
Winter fun: Awassa Nature Preserve & Hiking Trail
St. Germain has become a year-round biking destination. The Awassa Nature Preserve is a hiking trail that’s also open for winter fat biking. While biking is not allowed in other seasons, any time of year you may want to enjoy a nice stroll on hiking trails that pass through stands of pines, oaks, and maples. There 230 acres to explore, and there are three loops of various lengths. Yhe trails can be accessed via two trailheads – one is behind the St. Germain Elementary School, the other is west of that location, just off of Highway 70 – just look for the trail sign.
Trail tips:
It’s always a good idea to wear a helmet on St. Germain’s trails – even on a soft and easy forest trail, it’s not worth taking chances. Bug spray is also a good idea, especially early in the season, and it will keep things comfortable as you unload at the trailhead or stop to take pictures. You can pick up beverages and snacks for your ride in St. Germain at Camp’s Fresh Market. Enjoy your ride!
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