Lake geneva shore path
Author: q | 2025-04-23
Lake Geneva Shore Path. Lake Geneva Shore Path. The 26-mile Lake Geneva Shore Path is an exceptional way to experience the area’s natural and architectural beauty.
Shore line path - Review of Geneva Lake Shore Path, Lake Geneva
It uniquely displayed from each property to the next with personal touches added. Hiking the Lake Geneva Shore PathThe total length of the shore path hike is about 22 – 26 miles. It will take an entire day to walk around the entire lake, so make sure to pack accordingly. For the shore path hike, you can also do it in sections. There are several public access points where you can start or end within Lake Geneva, Fontana, Williams Bay, Linn, and Big Foot Beach areas. One of the most common places to start is near Riviera Beach by the Lake Geneva Public Library, which is located in downtown Lake Geneva. Part of the path here is paved if you want to do an easy portion of it. You can hike in either direction on the path. It’s entirely up to you! The path is about 2 feet wide in most areas. If you love beautiful scenery and historic homes, then this is your trail! credit: Sarah at Explore More NCYou should only hike during the day. No bikes, skates, or motorized vehicles are permitted on the shore path. On part of the lake path, you will come across different terrain as you hike, varying from grass, cement, rocks, gravel, wood, and brick. Some areas can be very hilly! I wouldn’t recommend hiking after rain or while raining since many sections can be a simple dirt path and turn muddy in wet conditions. Wear comfortable shoes with good tread! You are allowed to bring your leashed dogs, but please make sure to clean up after them. Along the path, you will experience many wooded areas as you pass the historic estates on Geneva Lake. To help you navigate and explore the historic Geneva Lake Shore Path, you can download the Lake Geneva Shore Path App from Visit Lake Geneva for an interactive journey, or when you arrive, you can find a printed copy of the Geneva Lake Shore Path Guide. Distance between Public Access PointsLake Geneva to Chapin Rd is approximately 3.7 milesChapin Rd to Williams Bay is approximately 3.5 milesWilliams Bay to Fontana is approximately 3.3 milesFontana to Shadow Ln is approximately 2.6 milesShadow Ln to Linn Rd is approximately 3 milesLinn Rd to Big Foot Beach State Park is approximately 3.2 milesBig Foot Beach State Park to Lake Geneva is approximately 2 milesPublic parking is only available in Lake Geneva, Williams Bay, Fontana, and Big Foot Beach State Park.Public Restrooms AccessAccess to restrooms will vary depending on the season and time of day. You will find locations in Lake Geneva, Edgewater Park in Williams Bay, Reid Park in Fontana, and Big Foot Beach State Park on the south
The Geneva Lake Shore Path
Featured image by Peter GiordanoAlta Vista Estate by Meredith112Along the sparkling shore of Geneva Lake in southeast Wisconsin, a public walking path offers a stroll through history. The Geneva Lake Shore Path was first established by the indigenous Potawatomi tribe centuries ago. The native people used the trail to circumnavigate the lake that provided sustenance and protection. The Geneva Lake area was only sparsely settled in the early 1800s but began a generations-long development movement with the arrival of the railroad in the 1870s. The area was already growing as a popular summer community when the great fire of 1871 drove many of Chicago’s most prominent families to take year-round refuge at their summer estates while the Second City was rebuilt. The original owners of these estates with names like Wrigley, Swift, Wacker, and Schwinn among others are credited with building industries that fueled the economic development of the region and the whole nation in the early 20th century.Estate on Geneva Lake by Anne PetersonThe Geneva Lake Shore Path winds for 21 miles and passes only yards from these magnificent homes. The path has been enjoyed for generations and, amazingly, remained open to the public throughout the decades. To learn about the history of the area and options for enjoying the Shore Path, I contacted local historian and experienced tour guide, Jim Beloian. Many of the properties along the lake, from vast estates to modest cottages, have been owned by the same families for generations. “At the turn of the last century, all of the land along the Geneva Lake shore was owned by just 40 millionaires. Now there are more than 1,000 piers on the lake,” said Jim.George Williams College by Anne PetersonFor first-time visitors, Jim recommends starting in the town of Lake Geneva and walking counter-clockwise around theA hidden treasure on the Geneva Lake Shore Path - Lake Geneva
Lakeshore Inn for a burger or Gordy’s Boat House. Finally, if you are near Big Foot Beach back on the east side, stop by The Boat House Bar & Grill, which is right next to the Big Foot Beach State Park and has a beautiful view of Geneva Lake. Final ThoughtsI hope you can get out there and explore the Geneva Lake area. It’s a lot of fun and a great place to enjoy the magnificent estates along the entire shore path. If you don’t have all day, just hike a portion of the path. The south side of the path is more challenging than the north side. Just remember you are walking near private property owners, so please take all your trash with you and leave no trace. It’s one of the most beautiful lakes and we want to keep it that way! Lake Geneva is about an hour and a half away from Chicago, IL, and an hour away from Milwaukee, WI. Add it to your list of must-visit midwest destinations today! If you are ever exploring outside of the Midwest area, especially the North Carolina area where Sarah now resides, make sure to visit Explore More NC. Samantha is the owner and author of PAonPause, a blog that helps travelers find the best outdoor travel experiences and highlights unique locations around the Great Lakes. When she isn't writing and creating content for the website, she's hiking and exploring with her husband and 2 rescue pups. She also enjoys a good craft beer, a summer ride in her Jeep with the top down, and discovering a new waterfall.. Lake Geneva Shore Path. Lake Geneva Shore Path. The 26-mile Lake Geneva Shore Path is an exceptional way to experience the area’s natural and architectural beauty. Geneva Lake Shore Path Geneva Lake Shore Path is a trailhead in Lake Geneva, Walworth County, Wisconsin.Geneva Lake Shore Path is situated nearby to Marina Bay Boat Rental, asShore Path Pier, Lake Geneva, Lake Geneva, Wisconsin
Want to walk out and back along the same segment of the trail.The Geneva Lake Shore Path Guide ($8) published by Nei-Turner Media Group is a nicely designed, pocket-sized guide that divides the path into six segments by including a longer, more difficult hike along the south shore. One hundred one points of interest are noted on an overview map for perspective.Water ToursThe easiest way to enjoy the beauty of the Geneva Lake shoreline while learning about the vibrant history of the area is by booking a tour on the Gage Lake Geneva Cruise Line. With several tour options including partial or full lake tours, sunset cocktail cruises and even a US Mailboat tour, there is something to fit any interest. The cruises offer a rich history of the community, the estates, and the notable people who built great industries in the last century. Visit Gage’s headquarters at the Riviera Pier in the town of Lake Geneva or the Gage website to purchase tickets.Lake Geneva Packing ListMail is expertly delivered by moving boats to lakefront estates on Geneva Lake.Photo by Anne PetersonIf You GoThe shore path is for pedestrian use only. Bicycles and strollers are prohibited and dogs must be leashed at all times. The path is three feet wide in most places and the terrain varies from a paved surface to a rustic dirt path, to rocky and steep in various spots. Choose your footwear accordingly.While the path is open to the public, the land on either side including the lakefront is private property. Note that public restroom facilities are limited to the towns of Lake Geneva, Williams Bay, and Fontana. It’s a good idea to bring water and sunscreen, and it’s important to select a manageable distance and plan for your return. “There is limited access to aThe Geneva Lake Shore Path - At The Lake Magazine
Along the Geneva Lake shoreline, you’ll find a 21-mile lakeside trail, sometimes longer due to the winding path, referred to as the Lake Geneva Shore Path. Geneva Lake is a freshwater spring-fed lake located in Southeastern Wisconsin. The lake is about 7.7 miles long and has a maximum depth of about 135 feet. Here you will find several small communities surrounding the lake including the city of Lake Geneva and the villages of Williams Bay and Fontana. We asked our friend Sarah from Explore More NC to cover this topic more in-depth. Sarah was born and raised in Lake Geneva, WI, and has enjoyed many walks on the Lake Geneva Shore Path over the years. Today, she resides in North Carolina but wanted to share her beautiful hometown with all of us!credit: Sarah at Explore More NCHistory of Geneva LakeThe Lake Geneva area has been a very popular resort destination, especially for those living in the Chicago area. It was formed over 10,000 years ago as a result of glaciers in the area. The land was originally called “Maunk-suck” (Big Foot) for the Potawatomi tribe leader who resided in this area at the beginning of the 19th Century. The original settlers referred to the lake as Big Foot Lake. Unfortunately, Chief Big Foot and his tribe were compelled to migrate southwest to Iowa in 1836 due to the 1833 Chicago Treaty. This area of land was then “owned” by the government and started to get surveyed in 1835 by John Brink. The area reminded him of Seneca Lake, which was in John’s hometown in Geneva, New York. He named the area Geneva. The town was later renamed Lake Geneva to avoid confusion with the nearby town of Geneva, IL, and the Lake was renamed Geneva Lake. After the Great Chicago Fire of 1871, the Lake Geneva area changed rapidly. Many from Chicago retreated north to Lake Geneva to establish summer estates while they rebuilt from the great fire. There was a railroad that made it easy for those to travel from the Chicago area, which continued to expand to Williams Bay and even the far end of the lake in Fontana. Many wealthy industrialists showcased their wealth by building exquisite estates on the lake. Geneva Lake has quite the most fascinating history! The shoreline of Geneva Lake was used by early settlers of the region for footpath transportation between villages. Later it was used as a trail for workers to follow from Lake Geneva to the estates of the wealthy Chicago families living here. The first 20 feet of the shoreline have been preserved as public domain. Every private property owner is required to maintain this path, and you’ll seeGeneva Lake Shore Path - LGSC
End of Lake Geneva. You will find water fountains in several of these locations too. credit: Sarah at Explore More NCHistoric Estates on Geneva LakeStone ManorThis is the largest estate to be built on Geneva Lake. Otto Young started building this home back in 1899 and was originally called Younglands. Otto was only able to enjoy the home for 5 years prior to his death. Throughout the years, Stone Manor was donated as a church camp and school for girls, then a restaurant. Today, the property is divided into luxury condominiums, but the exterior pretty much has stayed the same. It’s on the National Register for Historic Places. You cannot miss this home from the water. Casa Del SuenoThe original Spanish-style estate was built in 1893 and was known as Galewood. In 1928 it burned down and was rebuilt in 1930. The Stark Family, of the Stark Piano Company, owned it until 1952. It’s changed hands several times over the years, including to one of the writers and producers for the TV soap operas “The Young and the Restless” and “The Bold and the Beautiful.” Lake Geneva LibraryNot only is this a great public access point for the shore path, but it’s also a beautiful building that was designed by Frank Lloyd Wright’s protege, James R. Dresser. It overlooks Geneva Lake and is located in downtown Lake Geneva. Here you will find a paved section of the path in the library park.Black PointBlack Point was built in 1888 as a retreat for beer baron Conrad Seipp. It is situated on 28 acres and was private until 2007. Today, it’s open to the public and you can tour this elegant Queen Anne-style mansion. Tours are currently closed until May 2023. You will need to arrive by boat though. The Lake Geneva Cruise Line offers a 45-min scenic boat ride with your admission. You get to hear more history of the Lake Geneva area and view it from the water, which is one of the best ways to take in all the beautiful estates on Geneva Lake. Flowerside InnFlowerside Inn was built in 1898 for the family of Simeon Chapin. Chapin was the founder of the Geneva Lake Water Safety Patrol in 1920. The grounds were well known for their beautiful gardens, and the present-day owners had to employ 15 gardeners to tend to the landscape and bring them back to its former glory. Glen AnnieBuilt in 1892, a well-known radio show “Amos ‘n Andy” was taped here on occasion in the 1930s. Congress ClubThis club was established in 1882 and was formed by a group of wealthy Chicagoans who lived on Congress St. They wanted to find a spot where theyLake Geneva Shore Path (WI)
About Symphony Bay Symphony Bay is a new active-lifestyle community located in Lake Geneva, Wisconsin. Homebuyers will have access to amenities like a clubhouse and outdoor pools along with a private boat launch on Lake Geneva. A total of 427 and single-family home will be built, with plenty of options for homebuyers to choose from to customize their home. The community is located within about a mile of the lake and is a short distance from the city center.Symphony Bay AmenitiesAn impressive set of amenities is planned for residents of Symphony Bay. On the west end of the community, there will be a spacious clubhouse with plenty of indoor and outdoor gathering spaces. It will also house a fitness center, ideal for keeping up an exercise routine without leaving the neighborhood. Outdoors there is both a resort-style pool and a lap pool and an expansive patio. Current plans also call for two tennis courts and two bocce ball courts, perfect for a friendly competition between neighbors. Residents' four-legged friends are even accommodated with a dog park set in the scenic Woodland Conservancy.On Lake Geneva, homeowners will enjoy the Lakeside Retreat, their own private boat launch and recreation area on the east side of the lake. An optional boat club membership provides residents with access to rental boats at reduced rates. Homeowners can get to the Lakeside Retreat by car or use the walking and cycling path that connects Symphony Bay with the shore. This path is a part of the 21 mile-long Geneva Lake Shore Path that rings the lake and runs through greater Lake Geneva area.Symphony Bay Homes & Real EstateReprise Homes, a respected local builder, has plans to build 427 attached and single-family homes at Symphony Bay. The attached Villa floor plan will have 1,345 square feet of living space with two bedrooms, two bathrooms, and attached two-car garages. There are four single-family floor plans ranging from 1,590 to 1,940 square feet with two or three bedrooms, two bathrooms, and attached two-car garages. All homes feature first-floor master suites. Homebuyers can choose from a wide variety of customizations. Lake Geneva Shore Path. Lake Geneva Shore Path. The 26-mile Lake Geneva Shore Path is an exceptional way to experience the area’s natural and architectural beauty.
Geneva Lake Shore Path - BringFido
Could all vacation together. Here at the Congress Club, they built 10 cottages on 10 acres. The cottages were completed in the late 1880s. None of the cottages had a kitchen because they wanted to have a clubhouse that would serve as a community kitchen and dining area. Since then, kitchens have been added, but the clubhouse still serves as a place for gathering. Maxwell MansionThis manor was built in 1856 and served as a summer residence for several prominent Chicago industrialists. Both Ulysses S. Grant and Nancy Reagan have stayed here. There was also a hidden speakeasy in the basement. Today it’s been transformed into a boutique hotel with luxury rooms located in Lake Geneva. House in the WoodsLocated in what is called “The Narrows” on Geneva Lake, this house was built under a Ringling Bros. circus tent during the winter of 1905. P.T. Barnum kept the circus nearby in Delavan, WI during the off-season so the tent was able to be borrowed. There was a rush for the project as he had to finish on time to be a surprise for his wife’s birthday in the spring. credit: Sarah at Explore More NCOther Activities to do in Lake Geneva WITake a cruise on the Lake Geneva Cruise LineDon’t feel like walking the entire Lake Geneva lake shore path? Then opt for one of the full lake tours via boat. They even have a fun tour where you can join them in delivering mail in the summer. The boat pulls right up next to the piers of the private homes to deliver the mail! It’s quite the sight, and you might even see them fall into the water or miss jumping back onto the boat. The boat will not stop for them! The cruise takes off from the Riveria pier, and you can buy tickets in advance on their site. Swim at the Riviera BeachEnjoy the beautiful waters of Geneva Lake at the public beach in downtown Lake Geneva. Enjoy Shopping in Downtown Lake Geneva and Nearby RestaurantsWant to find some restaurants or local shops while you are in town? Lake Geneva has all that and more! If you are looking for waterfront dining, stop by the Oakfire or enjoy some roasted chicken at Popeye’s on Lake Geneva. Near Flat Iron Park in downtown Lake Geneva, you can also dine at Lake City Social and take in some water views. While in Williams Bay on the lake path, you will come across a couple of restaurants, as well. PIER 290 is along the water, and another location just off the path is Harpoon Willie’s. While you are in Fontana on the west end of the lake, stop by Chuck’sLake Geneva Shore Path APP
Lake. Some of the most spectacular homes can be seen along a three and a half mile segment from the Lake Geneva public beach to Chapin Road. Asked to name a favorite, Jim mentioned a Georgian-style mansion known as the Driehaus Estate. “It’s probably the stateliest home on the lake with only four owners since it was built in 1906.” Originally named Wadsworth Hall when it was built by Chicago banker Norman Wait Harris, the estate occupies 36 acres that include formal gardens designed by the famed landscape architect, Frederick Law Olmstead, designer of New York’s Central Park and Chicago’s Jackson and Washington Parks at the time of the 1893 World’s Columbian Exposition. The property was purchased in the late 1990s by Chicago billionaire and ardent preservationist, Richard H. Driehaus who commissioned a complete rehabilitation of the mansion and grounds. The home is the site of lavish, elaborately themed parties throughout the year including a late-July spectacle that many consider the event of the season.The Driehaus Estate by ArtromosThere are several options for enjoying the trail. For those not ready to tackle the entire route in one day, the path is easily divided into segments of three to seven miles.Self-Guided TourTwo excellent guidebooks are available for purchase at the Lake Geneva Chamber of Commerce, located at 201 Wrigley Drive in Lake Geneva, and several local shops.Walk, Talk & Gawk by Pat Groh and Chris Hawver ($7) divides the experience into seven manageable hikes of two to three and a half miles. The booklet includes one-page, pull-out guides for each segment with a notated map and description of the notable sights along each segment. The detailed description of each property and single-sheet format make this guide handy and easy to use. With short-distance hikes, this guide is perfect for those who. Lake Geneva Shore Path. Lake Geneva Shore Path. The 26-mile Lake Geneva Shore Path is an exceptional way to experience the area’s natural and architectural beauty. Geneva Lake Shore Path Geneva Lake Shore Path is a trailhead in Lake Geneva, Walworth County, Wisconsin.Geneva Lake Shore Path is situated nearby to Marina Bay Boat Rental, asGeneva Lake Shore Path - cityseeker
Laws. Dungeon Master's Guide II. Renton, WA: Wizards of the Coast, 2005.Gygax, Gary. Dungeon Master's Guide. Lake Geneva, WI: TSR, 1979.Gygax, Gary, and Brian Blume. Eldritch Wizardry. Lake Geneva, WI: TSR, 1976.Haley, Jason H. "The Allure of Evil." Dragon #361. Renton, WA: Wizards of the Coast, 2007. Available online: [5]Hart, Ken. "History Check: Kas and Vecna." Dragon #402. Renton, WA: Wizards of the Coast, 2011.Heard, Bruce. "Spells Between the Covers." Dragon #82. Lake Geneva, WI: TSR, 1984.Holian, Gary. "The Kingdom of Keoland." Living Greyhawk Journal #1. Renton, WA: Wizards of the Coast, 2000. Available online:[6]-----. "Silent Sorcery: The Silent Ones of Keoland." Living Greyhawk Journal #4. Renton, WA: Wizards of the Coast, 2001Holian, Gary, Erik Mona, Sean K. Reynolds, and Frederick Weining. Living Greyhawk Gazetteer. Renton, WA: Wizards of the Coast, 2000.Mearls, Mike. "The Three Faces of Evil." Dungeon #125. Bellevue, WA: Paizo Publishing, 2005.Miller, Steve. "The Secret Library of Vecna." Dragon #272. Renton, WA: Wizards of the Coast, 2000.Mona, Erik. "Ancient History: Vecna's Realm." Renton, WA: Wizards of the Coast, unpublished. Available online:[7]Moore, Roger E. The Adventure Begins. Renton, WA: Wizards of the Coast, 1998.Mullin, Robert S. "Arcane Lore: Greyhawk Grimoires II." Dragon #241. Lake Geneva, WI: TSR, 1997.-----. "Campaign Classics: Three Greyhawk Grimoires." Dragon #225. Lake Geneva, WI: TSR, 1996.Niles, Douglas, and Carl Sargent. The City of Greyhawk. Lake Geneva, WI: TSR, 1989.Noonan, David. Complete Divine. Renton, WA: Wizards of the Coast, 2004.-----. Monster Manual V. Renton, WA: Wizards of the Coast, 2007.Redman, Rich, Skip Williams, and James Wyatt. Deities and Demigods. Renton, WA: Wizards of the Coast, 2002.Reynolds, Sean K. and Chris Pramas. Slavers. Renton, WA: Wizards of the Coast, 2000.Reynolds, Sean K., and Samuel D. Weiss. "Core Beliefs: Vecna." Dragon #348. Bellevue, WA: Paizo Publishing, 2006.Sargent, Carl. From the Ashes. Lake Geneva, WI: TSR, 1992.-----. Ivid the Undying. Lake Geneva, WI: TSR, unpublished. Available online: [8]Thorsson, Modi, and Kevin McCann. Vecna: Hand of the Revenant. Lakewood, CO: Iron Hammer Graphics, 2002.Tweet, Johnathan, Monte Cook, and Skip Williams. Player's Handbook. Renton, WA: Wizards of the Coast, 2000.-----. Player's Handbook Core Rulebook I v.3.5. Renton, WA: Wizards of the Coast, 2003.Wiese, Robert. "The Head of Vecna." Renton, WA: Wizards of the Coast, 2007. Available online: [9]External linksCavitian: The tongue of Vecna."The Forgotten History of the Southern Lorridges: Vecna, the Mara, and Ashardalon" at Canonfire!."Grand Sheldomar Timeline, Part I" at Canonfire!."The Hand and Eye of Vecna" at Canonfire!."The Pre-CataclysmComments
It uniquely displayed from each property to the next with personal touches added. Hiking the Lake Geneva Shore PathThe total length of the shore path hike is about 22 – 26 miles. It will take an entire day to walk around the entire lake, so make sure to pack accordingly. For the shore path hike, you can also do it in sections. There are several public access points where you can start or end within Lake Geneva, Fontana, Williams Bay, Linn, and Big Foot Beach areas. One of the most common places to start is near Riviera Beach by the Lake Geneva Public Library, which is located in downtown Lake Geneva. Part of the path here is paved if you want to do an easy portion of it. You can hike in either direction on the path. It’s entirely up to you! The path is about 2 feet wide in most areas. If you love beautiful scenery and historic homes, then this is your trail! credit: Sarah at Explore More NCYou should only hike during the day. No bikes, skates, or motorized vehicles are permitted on the shore path. On part of the lake path, you will come across different terrain as you hike, varying from grass, cement, rocks, gravel, wood, and brick. Some areas can be very hilly! I wouldn’t recommend hiking after rain or while raining since many sections can be a simple dirt path and turn muddy in wet conditions. Wear comfortable shoes with good tread! You are allowed to bring your leashed dogs, but please make sure to clean up after them. Along the path, you will experience many wooded areas as you pass the historic estates on Geneva Lake. To help you navigate and explore the historic Geneva Lake Shore Path, you can download the Lake Geneva Shore Path App from Visit Lake Geneva for an interactive journey, or when you arrive, you can find a printed copy of the Geneva Lake Shore Path Guide. Distance between Public Access PointsLake Geneva to Chapin Rd is approximately 3.7 milesChapin Rd to Williams Bay is approximately 3.5 milesWilliams Bay to Fontana is approximately 3.3 milesFontana to Shadow Ln is approximately 2.6 milesShadow Ln to Linn Rd is approximately 3 milesLinn Rd to Big Foot Beach State Park is approximately 3.2 milesBig Foot Beach State Park to Lake Geneva is approximately 2 milesPublic parking is only available in Lake Geneva, Williams Bay, Fontana, and Big Foot Beach State Park.Public Restrooms AccessAccess to restrooms will vary depending on the season and time of day. You will find locations in Lake Geneva, Edgewater Park in Williams Bay, Reid Park in Fontana, and Big Foot Beach State Park on the south
2025-03-29Featured image by Peter GiordanoAlta Vista Estate by Meredith112Along the sparkling shore of Geneva Lake in southeast Wisconsin, a public walking path offers a stroll through history. The Geneva Lake Shore Path was first established by the indigenous Potawatomi tribe centuries ago. The native people used the trail to circumnavigate the lake that provided sustenance and protection. The Geneva Lake area was only sparsely settled in the early 1800s but began a generations-long development movement with the arrival of the railroad in the 1870s. The area was already growing as a popular summer community when the great fire of 1871 drove many of Chicago’s most prominent families to take year-round refuge at their summer estates while the Second City was rebuilt. The original owners of these estates with names like Wrigley, Swift, Wacker, and Schwinn among others are credited with building industries that fueled the economic development of the region and the whole nation in the early 20th century.Estate on Geneva Lake by Anne PetersonThe Geneva Lake Shore Path winds for 21 miles and passes only yards from these magnificent homes. The path has been enjoyed for generations and, amazingly, remained open to the public throughout the decades. To learn about the history of the area and options for enjoying the Shore Path, I contacted local historian and experienced tour guide, Jim Beloian. Many of the properties along the lake, from vast estates to modest cottages, have been owned by the same families for generations. “At the turn of the last century, all of the land along the Geneva Lake shore was owned by just 40 millionaires. Now there are more than 1,000 piers on the lake,” said Jim.George Williams College by Anne PetersonFor first-time visitors, Jim recommends starting in the town of Lake Geneva and walking counter-clockwise around the
2025-04-05Want to walk out and back along the same segment of the trail.The Geneva Lake Shore Path Guide ($8) published by Nei-Turner Media Group is a nicely designed, pocket-sized guide that divides the path into six segments by including a longer, more difficult hike along the south shore. One hundred one points of interest are noted on an overview map for perspective.Water ToursThe easiest way to enjoy the beauty of the Geneva Lake shoreline while learning about the vibrant history of the area is by booking a tour on the Gage Lake Geneva Cruise Line. With several tour options including partial or full lake tours, sunset cocktail cruises and even a US Mailboat tour, there is something to fit any interest. The cruises offer a rich history of the community, the estates, and the notable people who built great industries in the last century. Visit Gage’s headquarters at the Riviera Pier in the town of Lake Geneva or the Gage website to purchase tickets.Lake Geneva Packing ListMail is expertly delivered by moving boats to lakefront estates on Geneva Lake.Photo by Anne PetersonIf You GoThe shore path is for pedestrian use only. Bicycles and strollers are prohibited and dogs must be leashed at all times. The path is three feet wide in most places and the terrain varies from a paved surface to a rustic dirt path, to rocky and steep in various spots. Choose your footwear accordingly.While the path is open to the public, the land on either side including the lakefront is private property. Note that public restroom facilities are limited to the towns of Lake Geneva, Williams Bay, and Fontana. It’s a good idea to bring water and sunscreen, and it’s important to select a manageable distance and plan for your return. “There is limited access to a
2025-03-25Along the Geneva Lake shoreline, you’ll find a 21-mile lakeside trail, sometimes longer due to the winding path, referred to as the Lake Geneva Shore Path. Geneva Lake is a freshwater spring-fed lake located in Southeastern Wisconsin. The lake is about 7.7 miles long and has a maximum depth of about 135 feet. Here you will find several small communities surrounding the lake including the city of Lake Geneva and the villages of Williams Bay and Fontana. We asked our friend Sarah from Explore More NC to cover this topic more in-depth. Sarah was born and raised in Lake Geneva, WI, and has enjoyed many walks on the Lake Geneva Shore Path over the years. Today, she resides in North Carolina but wanted to share her beautiful hometown with all of us!credit: Sarah at Explore More NCHistory of Geneva LakeThe Lake Geneva area has been a very popular resort destination, especially for those living in the Chicago area. It was formed over 10,000 years ago as a result of glaciers in the area. The land was originally called “Maunk-suck” (Big Foot) for the Potawatomi tribe leader who resided in this area at the beginning of the 19th Century. The original settlers referred to the lake as Big Foot Lake. Unfortunately, Chief Big Foot and his tribe were compelled to migrate southwest to Iowa in 1836 due to the 1833 Chicago Treaty. This area of land was then “owned” by the government and started to get surveyed in 1835 by John Brink. The area reminded him of Seneca Lake, which was in John’s hometown in Geneva, New York. He named the area Geneva. The town was later renamed Lake Geneva to avoid confusion with the nearby town of Geneva, IL, and the Lake was renamed Geneva Lake. After the Great Chicago Fire of 1871, the Lake Geneva area changed rapidly. Many from Chicago retreated north to Lake Geneva to establish summer estates while they rebuilt from the great fire. There was a railroad that made it easy for those to travel from the Chicago area, which continued to expand to Williams Bay and even the far end of the lake in Fontana. Many wealthy industrialists showcased their wealth by building exquisite estates on the lake. Geneva Lake has quite the most fascinating history! The shoreline of Geneva Lake was used by early settlers of the region for footpath transportation between villages. Later it was used as a trail for workers to follow from Lake Geneva to the estates of the wealthy Chicago families living here. The first 20 feet of the shoreline have been preserved as public domain. Every private property owner is required to maintain this path, and you’ll see
2025-04-12