University Trail



Length: 1.5 miles
Surface: Crushed granite trails, wood chipped trails, and paved roads
Activities: Hiking, jogging, slow biking, no pets
Parking: Schmeeckle Reserve Visitor Center (west), Along Wilshire Dr. (east)

The University Trail spans from the Green Circle Trailhead off of Business 51 (west) to the Moses Creek parking lot off of Wilshire Drive (northeast). The west portion of the trail meanders through Schmeeckle Reserve, a natural area owned by the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point (UWSP). Diverse habitats of forest, prairie, wetlands, and oak savannah provide ample wildlife viewing opportunities. The east portion follows Wilshire Drive to the north. The road has extended paved shoulders for trail users.

Visit the Green Circle Headquarters
The Schmeeckle Reserve Visitor Center is the headquarters of the Green Circle, open every day from 8 am-5 pm. Staff are available to answer questions about the trail or the Stevens Point area. The center also features free parking, restrooms and water, trail maps, a gift shop, and a conservation museum. Click here for more information about the Visitor Center.

What is Schmeeckle Reserve?
Schmeeckle Reserve is a 275-acre natural area managed by UWSP's College of Natural Resources. It was created to preserve and restore natural communities of central Wisconsin. Take a detour from the Green Circle to explore over 4 additional miles of trails and boardwalks. Paths are open to hiking, jogging, snow shoeing, and slow biking. The scenic Lake Joanis is a popular place for fishing and canoeing. Click here for more information about the Reserve.

Alternate Route for pet owners and for easier biking
Since the Reserve is used by UWSP for education and research, some rules are different on this portion of the trail. Pets are not allowed in the Reserve, as they can disturb sensitive wildlife studies. In addition, trails are primarily designed for groups of walkers (narrow paths, curves, woodchips), so bicyclists need to keep speeds slow. Trail users with pets or bicyclists who prefer an easier time can follow an alternate route along North Point Drive (see dotted line on map).

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