Stower Seven Lakes State Trail
The Stower Seven Lakes State Trail travels nearly 14 miles in Polk County. From Amery, the path makes its way to 90th Avenue in the Township of Osceola. A short ride down 90th Avenue leads to Lotus Lake County Park, the western trailhead. The trail takes part of its name from Harvey and Marilyn Stower of Amery. Harvey Stower served in the Wisconsin Legislature and as mayor of Amery for many years.
The “seven lakes” section of the trail’s name comes from the seven lakes near which it travels. The route crosses between North Twin and South Twin Lakes in Amery, then skirts Bear Trap, Kinney, Dwight, and Horse Lakes. Near its end the trail runs by Lotus Lake. Throughout its route, the trail offers stunning views of the lakes and exceptional natural landscapes. Cyclists enjoy a peaceful ride on this undiscovered trail.
The Stower Seven Lakes State Trail journeys through maple, oak, and pine forests. Prairies, meadows, and farmlands provide a variety of scenic views. The trail also passes tamarack marshes, where the deciduous conifers thrive in the wet soil. Birds and wildlife may be spotted from the path, including robins, eagles, white-tailed deer, and black bear. Trail-goers should also note that poison ivy grows alongside the trail most of the route.
In 1887, the Soo Line Railroad created the corridor on which the Stower Seven Lakes State Trail travels. It was part of a rail line running from Minneapolis to Sault Saint Marie. Because this is a rail-to-trail path, the grade is fairly level. The surface is screened limestone and in very good condition, although some gopher holes pockmark the trail.
The trail journeys east to west and passes through Amery, Deronda, Wanderoos, and Nye. In Amery, the Soo Line Park serves as a trailhead. Deronda, Wanderoos, and Nye also have trailheads. At the western end of the path, it’s less than a half mile ride to Lotus Lake County Park. All trailheads are well-equipped for cyclists.
Polk County has several recreational trails. The Stower Seven Lakes State Trail is just one of two trails reserved exclusively for non-motorized vehicles. The trail has been the subject of litigation in recent years, with some court proceedings focused on permitting motorized vehicles on the trail. Another segment of court cases focuses on equestrian trail use. At the time this trail was ridden in June 2024, equestrian use was permitted each fall after October 1. Cyclists who ride the trail in that season should yield to horseback riders.
A Wisconsin State Trail Pass is required for bicyclists aged 16 or older who use the Stower Seven Lakes State Trail. Annual trail passes are $25 and day use passes are $5. They are available from some businesses in Amery and the city hall. Self-service pay stations are also found at all trailheads along the Stower Seven Lakes State Trail.
An excursion on the Stower Seven Lakes State Trail is often a quiet, pleasant tour through a scenic and natural environment. Park benches are located along the route, many next to interpretive markers that convey information about the area’s natural background and history. Trail-goers should observe all posted rules. Dogs are welcome but must be on a leash, and owners should pick up after their pet.
Route Descriptions