Trail Highlights

The Kushmanda Trail is a good option for those on foot that are visiting Ripco for the first time. The full loop’s easy .65 miles is a microcosm of the larger Samadhi trails. The Ananda Trail, another exclusive hike/shoe (HS) trail, climbs a ridge overlooking Kushmanda and passes through some huge basswood trees before intersecting with Middle Way. Hikers can loop back to the entrance on Kushmanda, take Middle Way to Emerald (HS) or continue on Ananda to the far stretches of the Jewel Tree area. All trails are open to those on foot - the options are numerous.

A short “trial trail for Fatbikers (FB) crosses Ripco, goes west on Ruby to Diamond cut. Take the Cut south to Lapis. Go east at Lapis to loop back to Ruby. Think Red, White and Blue. Fatbiking at Ripco can be a challenge for the novice. The Samadhi Trail has fewer, more gradual elevation changes. See the kiosk at the trailhead for more information.

Facilities and Parking

Parking is just south of the Tara Lila building and main entrance at 7550 Ripco Rd. The nearby info kiosk, water, and privy can be found on the map. An all season picnic shelter is planned. A snowmobile trail parallels Ripco Road to the west. Please take great care when crossing both.

RULES AND REGULATIONS

Use of the trails is at your own risk and in accordance with Wisconsin Statutes Sec. 895.525 (The “Berry Picker” law).

Trails are open from dawn until dusk except for special planned events. Make your way back to the trailhead by dusk. If you are aware of someone using the trails at night please let us know.

Stay on the trails. We empathize with the desire to go exploring off the trail, if you need to do so there are plenty of other great parks in Wisconsin to enjoy. This is private land and we work hard to create and maintain trails to all the interesting places.

Be aware of natural hazards. These are natural surface wilderness trails that traverse uneven ground as well as wet and boggy areas. Watch your step as tripping hazards may exist, surfaces may be slippery or muddy. Be aware of overhead hazards such as dead or hanging branches-especially in windy conditions.

Know where you are and where you are going. The trails are marked, but getting lost is always a possibility. Please take a free trail map located at the kiosk near the parking lot trailhead. Plan your trip, consider taking extra water, GPS or map and compass, and a snack.

Carry out all your waste. Guests of Tara Lila should practice Leave No Trace ethics, including taking all of your garbage (including pet waste) with you. Fires are strictly prohibited.

Unauthorized motor vehicles are prohibited. Staff at Tara Lila routinely use vehicles to groom and maintain the trails. We will do our best to minimize our impact on your experience.

Hunting and/or walking about with firearms is prohibited. Take extra care during the whitetail deer gun hunting season. Check the local trail kiosk for additional information. It is a good idea to wear blaze orange during the gun hunting season.

Respect the groomed cross-country and skate ski trails. We put great effort into maintaining the trails for these specialized winter sports. Boot holes can ruin a groomed trail, please stay well to the side of the trail.

Tell us about your experience! We want to know how we have helped you connect with nature. We also want to know where we can be better. Leave a comment in the Contact Us section and tell us what you think!