Heath Benefits of Using Wisconsin's State Trails

Wisconsin's State Trails are important for maintaining good health in our state. Our trails enable Wisconsin residents and visitors to get outside, enjoy the outdoors, exercise, and get in shape. Using trails can improve the well-being of the cardiovascular system.

Bicycling is just one of the ways to exercise on Wisconsin trails.
DNR Photo

In Wisconsin, cardiovascular diseases (CVD) cause more deaths than cancer, AIDS, automobile crashes, domestic abuse, and alcohol abuse combined. CVDs include heart disease, heart attack, high blood pressure, congestive heart failure and stroke. Some risk factors for CVD include diabetes and overweight. According to the Wisconsin Department of Health and Family Services, 60 percent of Wisconsin residents are overweight (including 21 percent obese) and 45 percent of Wisconsinites are considered physically inactive.

Much is known about cardiovascular disease however, and through regular physical activity, eating a healthy diet, and other healthy lifestyle choices, CVD and related risk factors can be prevented and controlled. Walking a comfortable 2 miles per hour, a person weighing 150 pounds will burn 240 calories in one hour, according to the American Heart Association.

Whether it's summer or winter, spring or autumn, Wisconsin’s trails are a great place to get the blood flowing and keep the cardiovascular system in shape. From walking, hiking, and jogging, to biking, cross-country skiing and snowshoeing, our state trails offer many heart-healthy activities.

The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources is working with the Wisconsin Cardiovascular Heath Alliance to alleviate the burden of CVD in the state, and to promote healthy lifestyles and physical activity for all of Wisconsin’s residents and visitors. For more information on cardiovascular disease in Wisconsin, please visit:

Wisconsin Cardiovascular Health Program [exit DNR]