Our Trails
Want to experience more of the beautiful Wisconsin Driftless Area than what you can see from the wrap-around deck and front gardens? Explore the inn’s 70+ acre slice of rolling hills, restored prairie, hardwood forest, and scenic outlook which defines the beauty of the Driftless Area from our extensive walking trail system. Trails are groomed year-round, and the surroundings are gorgeous in every season.
A portion of the hiking trail system available to explore at the Silver Star Bed & Breakfast Inn is owned by Eagle Hill LLC. The forest on this property is included In a Closed Managed Forest Plan and the Prairie in a Conservation Reserve Program. All entering this property agree that this property is covered by Wisconsin Statute sec 895.52 and that they are hiking at their own risk. Please stay on the trails at all times.
Silver Star Property LLC maintains the trails on its 25 acres for the enjoyment of its guests. We advise all guests to stay on the trail and walk carefully as the trail’s terrain varies from mowed paths covered in grass to narrow trails through the woods with sandy soil, loose rocks and other tripping hazards. Please talk to Elise or Kevin before venturing out on a hike to get an update on the trail conditions.
Cave Loop Trail
An easy stroll, less than a mile, starting with a manicured trail through the front prairie where you can enjoy native flowers and grasses followed by a spectacular view of the 100-foot sandstone and limestone wall hidden behind the woods located at the front of the property.
Distance: 0.7 miles
Duration: 15 minutes and 58 seconds
Average Speed: 2.6 mph
Minimum Elevation: 1012 feet
Maximum Elevation: 1108 feet
Total climb: 123 feet
Total descent: 131 feet
Bluff Overlook Trail
Bring your hiking boots for this quarter mile hike through the woods. This switchback trail, although short, includes 100 feet of elevation gain. The trail spans the countryside and opens up to an observation area with a swing and picnic table to enjoy the views from above the trees. An excellent location to enjoy the breathtaking sunsets all year around.
Distance: 0.2 miles
Duration: 4 minutes and 28 seconds
Average Speed: 2.6 mph
Minimum Elevation: 1076 feet
Maximum Elevation: 1157 feet
Total climb: 81 feet
Total descent: 0 feet
Butterfly Preserve Trail
A mile+ trail borders the recently restored 11-acre prairie we like to refer to as the Monarch Preserve. It was planted in 2016 with native grasses and flowers that bloom throughout the butterfly mating season. This prairie is designed to attract the endangered Monarch Butterfly and provide the necessary vegetation to ensure new generations will flourish. Enjoy the observation deck from one of the higher points on the trail that overlooks almost the entire prairie. The observation deck also provides beautiful sunset views in late fall through early spring.
Distance: 1.1 miles
Duration: 24 minutes and 29 seconds
Average Speed: 2.7 mph
Minimum Elevation: 1041 feet
Maximum Elevation: 1132 feet
Total climb: 177 feet
Total descent: 171 feet
Woods Stroll
Up for the challenge of 170 feet of elevation change in a quarter mile? Make sure you have your hiking boots, as the Woods Stroll starts out deceptively easy on an old farm road where you can enjoy the views of various rock outcropping and the canopy of trees. After you make your way through a wash, the trail becomes unforgiving as it leads up a challenging hill that will leave you breathless, literally. Eventually the trail leads you out of the woods where you can enjoy a glimpse of the Butterfly Preserve before you return to the inn.
Distance: 1.1 miles
Duration: 24 minutes and 17 seconds
Average Speed: 2.7 mph
Minimum Elevation: 960 feet
Maximum Elevation: 1132 feet
Total climb: 214 feet
Total descent: 204 feet
Sandstone Face Trail
Want to spend more time in the woods? Enjoy this half-mile trail through the woods created by our extensive deer population. The trail is located on the eastern side of the property and starts with beautiful views of the sandstone face of the bluff. Rock outcroppings, native mushrooms and ferns will entrance you as you make your way over this sandy trail.
Distance: 0.4 miles
Duration: 12 minutes and 12 seconds
Average Speed: 2.4 mph
Minimum Elevation: 1076 feet
Maximum Elevation: 1164 feet
Total climb: 87 feet
Total descent: 65 feet
Water Carved Trail
This scenic 1.4-mile hike in the Driftless Area offers nearly 300 feet of elevation gain and some of the region’s most rewarding views. The moderately challenging trail follows dramatic washes carved by centuries of rainfall, revealing sweeping vistas of rugged valleys, steep bluffs, and exposed limestone outcroppings. In spring, native wildflowers like wild geranium and columbine add vibrant color to the striking terrain, making this trail a must-visit for hikers, photographers, and nature lovers seeking a true Midwest outdoor experience.
Distance: 1.4 miles
Duration: 32 minutes and 33 seconds
Average Speed: 2.5 mph
Minimum Elevation: 886 feet
Maximum Elevation: 1085 feet
Total climb: 288 feet
Total descent: 282 feet
