Aldo Leopold Legacy Trail System
Green Circle State Trail

Encircling the city of Stevens Point, this trail meanders along the scenic Wisconsin and Plover rivers, recalling the history of the lumber-making and pioneer settlements of the area, while connecting secluded natural and wildlife areas, the Schmeeckle Reserve, and many city parks. The trail, including all spurs, is 31 miles long and features river scenery, forests, wetlands, prairies, boardwalks and quiet neighborhoods. A one-way spur on Hoover Road south in Plover is 4 miles and connects to the Tomorrow River State Trail.

A boardwalk section of the Green Circle State Trail.
DNR Photo

The Green Circle is managed locally by the Green Circle Board of the Community Foundation of Portage County and is a co-operative effort among communities, private land owners, individuals and local governments. It is thought to be the only trail system in the country to circle an entire community.

Activities

The Green Circle Trail may bring a number of different users to the trail at the same time. It is important to use good trail etiquette to ensure the enjoyment and safety of all trail users.

Wisconsin Trail Etiquette and Safety Guidelines [PDF 2MB]

Walking & Bicycling

Walking, running and jogging are allowed on all sections of the Green Circle State Trail. The surface of the trail varies by section and can be crushed stone, asphalt, woodchips, boardwalks, sidewalks or roadways.

Bicycling is allowed on most sections of the trail, however there are some sections and spurs of the main loop posted as closed to bicycles. There are two walking trail segments (Whiting Park and Paper Mill trails) that are closed to bicycles. The main trail bypasses these segments making a complete circle. The section of trail in the Schmeeckle Reserve is surfaced with woodchips and can be difficult for riding. An alternative route around the Reserve is available along North Point Drive. Bikers do not need a trail pass while using the trail.

The roadways and some other sections of the trail are paved with asphalt suitable for in-line skating. Skaters do not need a trail pass while using the trail.

Pets are allowed on most segments of the trail, but are not allowed in the Schmeeckle Reserve. An alternative route around the Reserve is available along North Point Drive. Pet owners, please be sure to have your pet on a leash, 8 feet or shorter, at all times. You must pick up after your pet.

Many sections of the Green Circle State Trail are accessible to wheelchair users and others with mobility impairments. The majority of the Green Circle Trail segments are surfaced with tightly packed crushed granite, boardwalks, concrete sidewalks, and asphalt, all of which are accessible to wheelchairs and strollers. The Whiting Park walking trail, Paper Mill walking trail, and some trails in the Schmeeckle Reserve are woodchipped.

Winter Activities

   Some sections of the trail are open to cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. The Plover River segment is groomed for classical (stride) skiing. Five loops totaling 6.2 miles are groomed. No racing or ski-skating are allowed. Other parts of the Green Circle can be used for snowshoeing. Hiking, pets and snowshoeing are not allowed on the groomed portions of the trail.

More Information

See the links below for more information about activities, communities, area attractions, features and other useful links for the Green Circle State Trail. Detailed information including history, rules, maps, news, trail segments and photos is also available on the Green Circle Trail website [exit DNR].

For more information, ask:

Schmeeckle Reserve
University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point
2419 North Point Drive
Stevens Point, WI 54481
(715) 346-4992