10.5 miles of hiking • 3750' elevation gain •
This was a perfect day for hiking and the trek is among my favorites. Skies were clear, temps in the 60s, the sun was warm, the forest cool, the berries plump and sweet. Starting out in the forest one climbs relentlessly along a mostly moderate grade with good tread until breaking out into a clearing with stunning views of the North Sauk River Valley and the surrounding mountains. You keep climbing (though frequent stops for berries are a must) until emerging at a shaded spot above Round Lake, a perfect place for lunch and a nap. Heading back down the trail a bit to a fork, go to the left for maybe a 1/4 mile for some more stunning views. Then, berry picking permitted, head back to the cars for a pleasant day hike. Be mindful of the propensity for some to break out into their best Julie Andrews imitation but you, too, will likely be caught up in the moment. A truly wonderful hike for wiling away a sunny day.
