The Best Hiking near Lake Geneva

While Lake Geneva probably doesn’t strike anyone as a major hiking getaway like some places in the west, there are still a fair share of nature trails that offer a good workout and some beautiful views. You won’t get steep inclines or climbing segments, but you’ll still have the wildlife and peaceful environment to enjoy.

Though the lack of intensity may disappoint the most avid of hikers, many other guests can feel happy knowing that they can walk any trail they want on this list. Let’s walk the paths and see what they each offer.

Geneva Lake Shore Path

Difficulty: Easy

Distance: 21.4 miles

Dog-Friendly: Yes, on a leash

By far the most popular trail route you’ve probably heard of is the Geneva Lake Shore Path. Unlike most other hiking experiences, the beautiful views are not limited to the natural world, but also the historical. You’ll walk, run, or bike around the lakeshore with beautiful views of the historic mansions Lake Geneva is renowned for. If you bring fishing gear on your walk you may stop for a short angling jaunt if you have the time.

We’ve written a guide on everything you need to know about the Geneva Lake Shore Path, and highlighted some of the major attractions you’ll find on the side of the paved pathway. Take a look!

MAP Read Our Guide to Geneva Lake Shore Path

Hermansen Woods Trail

Difficulty: Easy

Distance: 0.9 miles

Dog-Friendly: No

An excellent small trail right in our backyard! The Hermansen Woods Trail offers the perfect venue for a quiet outdoor walk to start your day. It’s short yet beautiful, and is ideal for birdwatching. Keep in mind that there is poison ivy if you step off the trail, so it’s probably not the best trail for kids or dogs.

Kishwauketoe Nature Conservancy

Difficulty: Easy

Distance: 3.1 miles

Dog-Friendly: Yes, on a leash

Considered one of the easiest trails nearby for its short length and lack of elevation change, Kishwauketoe Nature Conservancy is a fun place to hike. The park offers a quiet retreat dedicated to preserving nature and teaching about the culture of Native Americans who live in the area. Make sure you bring a pair of binoculars if you love birdwatching.

Linn Nature Park

Difficulty: Easy

Distance: 2.9 miles

Dog-Friendly: Yes, on a leash

For a more natural trail experience instead of a paved road, head to Linn Nature Park on the south side of Geneva Lake. Linn Nature Park is a well-worn and easily navigable trail that offers a chill afternoon of fun. Lay on the bug spray in the spring and fall months, as that’s when the bugs love to come out.

Big Foot Beach State Park

Difficulty: Moderate

Distance: 4 miles

Dog-Friendly: Yes, on a leash

Lying on the eastern shore of Geneva Lake is Big Foot Beach State Park, and its trail is one of the best out there. It’s long, it offers a great view of the lake and has a peaceful atmosphere to it. Guests are encouraged to go birdwatching or running in the summer, and cross-country skiing in the winter.

Along the sides of the trail you’ll see picnicking areas, fishing piers, and a whole lot of rolling hills. It’s a fun place to spend your day if you just want to be in the great outdoors.

Book a Stay at French Country Inn

At the French Country Inn on the Lake, we are surrounded by the beauty of nature and the quiet peace that comes from being remote. We are close to many of these fun hiking trails, and encourage all of our guests to stay somewhere with easy access to them.