5 Scenic Places to Walk in Door County, Wisconsin (From a Local’s Perspective)

Author: Holly Meikle

Friluftsliv-No Excuses

In my 30-plus years of living in Door County, I have made an effort to walk just about every day, despite the ever-changing forecast. I’m proud to say that like my ancestors, I have embraced the Scandinavian motto of “Friluftsliv” which loosely translates to embracing the outdoors and connecting with nature. When I am not pressed for time, I like to leave my familiar country roads and hit some local gems. If you are looking for a few new areas to enjoy your walks (or runs)  I highly recommend these beautiful spots.

1. Potawatomi State Park:  My absolute favorite park provides an abundance of walking options. The Ice Age Trail and Hemlock Trail are my favorites, but I am also happy walking any section of the paved road. You can begin at Waterfront Mary’s, head toward the park, and walk straight down to the boat launch or cut up to the reopened lookout tower and continue on toward the old ski hill. This park never disappoints and isn’t as crowded as Peninsula State Park. Click HERE to learn more. 
2. Bridge to Bridge is what the locals call a popular walk in downtown Sturgeon Bay. You can begin at any point as long as you cross over at least two of the three bridges:  the Steel Bridge (Michigan Street Bridge), the Oregon Street Bridge, and the Bayview Bridge (Highway Bridge).  This is a great walk if you want to take photographs of the shipping canal with the ships and boats coming in and going out. It also lends itself to stopping for refreshments at one of the many restaurants or bars and a bit of shopping at a cute boutique on Third Avenue. Click HERE to learn more.
3. Write On, Door County (Juddville) has a half-mile trail on its property complete with a few benches for meditation and relaxation. This path makes a loop so you can’t get lost. It’s an easy and peaceful walk and may inspire you to visit the writing center to begin (or finish) your next piece of fiction, prose or poetry! Click HERE to learn more. 
4. Crossroads At Big Creek is a beautiful piece of property that showcases a historical village, a learning center, an observatory, and trails traversing streams, woods and prairies.  This diverse ecosystem is my go-to spot when I need to hit the hills for a more challenging workout. Click HERE to learn more. 
5. Whitefish Dunes State Park is my top pick if wildlife is calling you. The remote and isolated trails are embedded in a primordial sanctuary for waterfowl and mammals. If you are unfamiliar with the area, make sure to bring a map or compass with you as it is easy to get turned around in the vast acreage. Click HERE to learn more.