When it comes to states with some truly amazing hiking trails in the Midwest, few of 'em are as awesomely diverse in terms of landscapes as Wisconsin. What most folks tend to dismiss as simply a "flyover state" is actually a ridiculously beautiful place that's home to hundreds of miles of hiking trails begging you to explore the great outdoors on foot.

I truly love the great outdoors - especially here in Wisconsin - so I've gone ahead and put together a short list of five of the best hiking trails in Wisconsin that you might just get to yourself. These are true hidden gems, and I hope you find them as breathtaking as I do.

1. Dells of Eau Claire Loop

Looking for something short, sweet, and easy to occupy your afternoon? Check out the jaw-dropping, one-mile adventure known as the Dells of Eau Claire Loop. Hidden in the woods near Aniwa, Wisconsin, this incredible hike is a reminder of just how amazing our state really is. The views of the Eau Claire River are second to none, and since it's open year-round, I definitely recommend a visit at least once each season. You'll be stunned by the fall color here, I promise. And in the summer, be sure to bring bug spray - they can get a little annoying otherwise (hooray for nature!)

2. Point Beach Red Loop

At just about three miles long, this incredible hiking trail in Wisconsin is somehow criminally underrated. If anyone ever tells you you can't have a beach day in the Midwest, stop talking to them: You don't need that sort of negativity in your life, and they're wrong, anyway. You can have a beach day in Wisconsin, and the Point Beach Red Loop is your ticket to sunshine. This one's a bit tougher than the first one - it's rated as moderately challenging, and sunscreen and good shoes are recommended. I'm not even sure which is cooler: the beach itself or Rawley Point Lighthouse, a 113-foot masterpiece operating since 1853.

3. Sensiba Walking Trail

Snuggled within the Green Bay West Shores State Wildlife Area is the Sensiba Walking Trail. This one's nice and easy, offering some lovely views of woodlands, ponds, bogs, and a few other interesting habitats. My favorite is the part pictured above: it seems so exotic and far-away, but really, you're just in Wisconsin. Just beautiful, wonderful Wisconsin. The amazing quiet of this trail is an absolute treat.

4. Ice Age National Scenic Trail: Greenbrush Segment

For those who enjoy a longer hike, this one's the real deal! The stunning Ice Age National Scenic Trail is a hike through time, and in the fall, the colors can be incredible. Of course, you should visit at other times of year, too - this trail is perfect for anyone that finds themself madly in love with trees and being immersed in the woods. Some sections of this hike may require a permit, so be sure to check out the official Ice Age Trail website and double-check!

5. Wolfsbane, War Eagle, Wilder Way, and Tramway Loop

Fans of amazing views are going to adore this one. The Wolfsbane, War Eagle, Wilder Way, and Tramway Loop (whew!) is a two-and-a-half-mile hike located within Grandad Bluff Park, and it's moderately challenging. As with all the trails on this list, I strongly recommend good hiking shoes! The park is beautiful, and this trail leads right through it. There are some elevation changes, so be ready for those, and make sure you always pack plenty of water - even if it's chilly outside. Hiking in Wisconsin is amazingly rewarding, no matter which trail you choose!

If you're planning to do all these hikes and then some (same), you might want to step up your hiking game. In that case, check out AllTrails Plus. It's incredibly convenient, and I don't know what I did before I had it. Seriously.