The best family-friendly hikes and walks in Highland Lakes State Park

Highland Lakes State Park offers a selection of family-friendly hiking routes. This guide features 3 trails, including 2 easy options and 1 moderate route, perfect for exploring the park's natural beauty with your family.

The park is known for its tranquil, undeveloped character, offering a peaceful escape from crowds. Its extensive network of informal trails and old carriage roads wind through diverse woodlands and wetlands, providing a serene environment for families to explore nature without extensive amenities, encouraging a 'leave no trace' approach.

Yes, there are easy loop trails ideal for families. For instance, the Diamond Lake loop from Winding Hills County Park Pond is an easy 3 km (1.9 mi) route with minimal elevation gain, perfect for a leisurely walk with little ones. Another great option is the Winding Hills Park Loop, which is just under 5 km (3.1 mi) and also rated easy.

You can expect varied terrain, primarily consisting of woodlands, wetlands, and paths that follow old carriage roads. The trails are generally informal, offering a natural, unpaved experience. While largely undeveloped, the paths provide ample opportunity to observe the park's diverse ecosystems.

Yes, dogs are generally welcome on trails in Highland Lakes State Park. However, it's always best to keep them on a leash and ensure you clean up after them to maintain the park's natural beauty and tranquility for all visitors.

Highland Lakes State Park is characterized by its serene natural beauty. On your family hike, you'll encounter vast woodlands, diverse wetlands, and several quiet lakes. The historical old carriage roads also add a unique charm to the hiking experience, offering wider paths through the forests.

Yes, parking is typically available at trailheads or designated access points for Highland Lakes State Park. Given the park's undeveloped nature, specific parking facilities might be informal, but access points usually have space for vehicles.

Highland Lakes State Park offers a beautiful experience year-round. Spring brings fresh greenery and blooming flora, while autumn showcases stunning fall foliage. Summer is great for longer days, and even winter offers opportunities for snowshoeing, though trails may be less maintained. The park's tranquility makes it enjoyable in any season.

Highland Lakes State Park is largely undeveloped, meaning there are no formal facilities such as restrooms or extensive picnic areas. Visitors are encouraged to practice a 'leave no trace' approach, bringing out everything they bring in, and planning accordingly for personal needs.

Due to its undeveloped and secluded nature, Highland Lakes State Park is not easily accessible by public transport. It is generally recommended to reach the park by car to access the various trailheads and enjoy the full experience.

Given the park's undeveloped character, it's wise to be self-sufficient. We recommend bringing plenty of water, snacks, a first-aid kit, sun protection, insect repellent, and appropriate footwear. Since there are no restrooms, plan for that as well. Remember to pack out everything you pack in.

For families seeking a bit more of a challenge, the Highland Lakes Red, Orange, and Green Trail Loop is a moderate option. This 8.9 km (5.5 mi) route offers a longer exploration of the park's diverse landscapes with some gentle elevation changes.