Stower Seven Lakes State Trail

Built on a former railroad corridor, this 14-mile crushed limestone trail extends between the trailheads at Soo Line Park in Amery and Lotus Lake County Park in Osceola/Dresser.  From the Osceola/Dresser end it’s a short trek to the Gandy Dancer Trail, Interstate Park with camping, and the Polk County Visitor Center where a variety of information and maps are available for the area. 

The trail is a beautiful place to run, walk, ride a bike or just sit on a bench and take in the beauty that surrounds you.  The trail passes through maple and oak forests, wetlands, prairies and farmlands and past seven picturesque lakes.  The trail crosses between the North Twin and South Twin lakes in Amery, then skirts Bear Trap, Kinney, Dwight, Horse and Lotus lakes.  Generally considered an easy route, it takes an average of 4-1/2 hours to complete a round-trip walk.  This is a popular trail for birding, cross-country skiing, and hiking, but you can still enjoy some solitude during quieter times of day.  

Not only are there seven lakes around which to meander, there are also a variety of plants and wildlife species to be viewed.  To make the journey more enjoyable, rest stops have been developed in Deronda, Wanderoos, and Nye which include parking spaces, restrooms, drinking fountains, and picnic tables.  Trail users will also notice the mile markers and point of interest signs which aid in identifying one's location.  Restrooms are generally open from May to October.

Pack a picnic and have lunch along the way, or feel free to travel light.  Adjacent to the trail you'll find a restaurant in Wanderoos, which was formerly a school from 1909-1967.  The towns of Amery, Osceola, Dresser, and St. Croix Falls offer many eateries.  Along the way, between mile markers 10 and 11, veer to the North and follow the signs to beautiful Dwight Lake.  Relax at the peaceful swimming beach on this hidden gem!

Dogs are welcome, but must be on a leash, and owners must pick up after their pet. 

A state trail pass is required for all people age 16 or older biking or cross-country skiing on the trail.  A state trail pass is not required for walking or hiking.  Wisconsin state trail pass fees are the same for residents and non-residents.  The annual pass is good for the calendar year and the daily pass is good for the day of purchase.  Trail passes are $5 per person a day and $25 per person annually.   Trail passes can be purchased at self-registration stations in Amery, Deronda, Wonderoos, and Nye -- or purchased in advance on our Trail Pass Info page.

Spring, Summer, and Fall Activities

The level grade and limestone surface make this trail suitable for bicyclists, walkers and joggers.  Each bicyclist age 16 or older needs a Wisconsin state trail pass while using the trail.

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.

Winter Activities

In winter the trail is open for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.  A portion of the trail is groomed for cross-country skiing; snowshoers must stay off the groomed portion of the trail.  Each skier age 16 or older needs a state trail pass before using the trail.  

In July 2023, Acting Polk County Circuit Judge Edward Vlack ruled that Polk County’s previous decision to allow snowmobiles and horses on the Stower Seven Lakes State Trail is not defensible.  He reversed the County’s decision thereby prohibiting snowmobiles and horses from the trail. 

Prohibited Activities

No person shall drive any motorized vehicles such as cars, trucks, ATVs, off-road motorcycles, go-carts, or snowmobiles on the trail at any time.

Hunting and trapping are not allowed in the trail corridor.