One of the best things about renting a bike from Coontail Adventures in Boulder Junction, WI, is that the Heart of Vilas County Bike Trail is right outside our door. Whether you're looking for a quick loop through the Northwoods forest, a longer ride to a neighboring town, or a scenic spin to a hidden lake, we've got a route for you. Here are three of our favorite bike rides starting right from the shop in Boulder Junction.

🧭 Route 1: The South Route — Boulder Junction to Crystal Lake

The South Route is the ultimate Northwoods sampler — a scenic bike ride south from Boulder Junction that strings together some of the most beautiful destinations in the area. From a sandy beach to a stunning lake-view point to a gorgeous shoreline drive, this route has it all. Ride as far as you like and turn around, or push all the way to Crystal Lake for a full-day adventure. All distances are one-way from Boulder Junction.

• ⛰️ Difficulty: Easy to moderate — flat to gently rolling
• 🌲 Surface: Paved trail and quiet roads
• 🥊 Pro tip: North Trout Lake Beach makes a perfect halfway stop — take a swim before pushing on to Crystal Lake!
• 👨👩👧 Great for: All skill levels — turn around at any destination!

🚣 Route 2: Boulder Junction to Manitowish Waters Bike Ride

For riders looking to stretch their legs, the bike ride from Boulder Junction to Manitowish Waters is a classic Northwoods adventure. You'll follow the Heart of Vilas County Trail northwest to Manitowish Waters — a stunning lakeside community built around a chain of ten interconnected lakes. Grab lunch or a cold drink in town before making the return trip.

• 📏 Distance: ~15–18 miles one way
• ⛰️ Difficulty: Easy to moderate — flat to gently rolling
• ⏱️ Estimated time: 1–1.5 hours one way
• 🌲 Highlights: Northwoods forest, Manitowish Waters chain of lakes
• 🍽️ Pro tip: Stop for lunch in Manitowish Waters before heading back!

🔄 Route 3: North Creek Loop — Boulder Junction Bike Trail

The North Creek Loop is a local favorite — a beautiful, manageable bike ride that takes you along the Heart of Vilas County Trail through the forest and alongside the peaceful North Creek corridor. This is a great option for families, beginners, or anyone who wants a relaxed ride with gorgeous Northwoods scenery. The loop brings you back to Boulder Junction feeling refreshed and ready for a post-ride scoop of ice cream.

• 📏 Distance: ~14 miles (loop)
• ⛰️ Difficulty: Easy to moderate — flat to gently rolling
• ⏱️ Estimated time: 1–2 hours
• 🌲 Highlights: Dense pine forest, North Creek views, wildlife sightings
• 👨👩👧 Great for: Families, beginners, casual riders

🚴 Before You Go — Bike Rental Tips

• 💧 Water: Bring plenty — especially on longer rides
• 🧴 Essentials: Sunscreen, bug spray, snacks, and a trail map
• 🐻 Wildlife: Keep an eye out for deer, eagles, loons, and the occasional bear!
• 🗓️ Best season: Late May through Mid-October
• 🚲 Bikes: All routes are suitable for the hybrid and comfort bikes in our rental fleet