Forest Bathing is a wellness practice developed in Japan (called ‘shirin yoku’) in the 1980’s, but has a long tradition in most cultures. Until recent times, all humans lived in wild areas, and medicine came in the form of herbs and ritual. Taking time to simply be present in the forest offers the opportunity to unlock the healing power of nature.

The self-guided Tara Lila Forest Bathing Trail is an opportunity for the public to have direct experience with the natural world at no cost. At Tara Lila, we believe people will benefit from this immersive experience, a chance to leave their phones in their vehicles and allow the healing of the forest to renew them, both body and mind.

This 1-mile Forest Bathing Trail follows along the Three Eagle Trail within the Section 9 Road Park unit of Tara Lila. The trail is on flat ground for increased accessibility and has been certified by the Association of Nature and Forest Therapy Guides and Programs- the first of its kind in Wisconsin. We are excited to share this self-guided Forest Bathing trail with the Northwoods community. This trail helps to promote one of the core values of Tara Lila - that the best way to experience the natural environment is to go slowly and quietly.

If you would like a personalized, professionally guided experience, please contact Cindy Conlon, a certified Forest Bathing Guide: (262) 206-1329

How to do it:

Set your intentions to be present. Silence or leave your phone behind. Allow the trees and the forest to welcome you. Follow the designated nine stopping points shown on the card holder at the kiosk. Read each invitation and follow the instructions to the best of your ability. Spend as much time as you wish with each experience. Notice what you notice.

Why do it?

Research shows that forest bathing provides a wide variety of health benefits including reducing anxiety, boosting the immune system, and promoting a sense of relaxation and mental clarity. At its most basic level, spending time in a friendly forest where you feel safe resets your nervous system, and leads to a feeling of positive emotion and overall well-being.

Frequently Asked Questions:

What is Forest Bathing?

Forest bathing is a wellness practice developed in Japan in the 1980's (called shirin yoku), but has a long tradition in most cultures. Until recent times, all humans lived in wild areas, and medicine came in the form of herbs and ritual. Taking time to simply be in the forest offers the opportunity to unlock the healing power of nature.

How do I do it?

Set your intention to be present. Silence or leave your phone behind. Allow the trees and forest to welcome you. Follow the designated nine stopping points shown on the card in the holder at the kiosk, and read each invitation. Spend as much time as you wish with each experience. Notice what you notice.

Why do it?

Research shows that forest bathing provides a wide variety of health benefits, including reducing anxiety, boosting the immune system, and promoting a sense of relaxation and mental clarity. At its most basic level, spending time in a friendly forest, where you feel safe, resets your central nervous system and leads to a feeling of positive emotion and overall well-being.

What if I want a personalized experience for my group?

Cindy Conlon is a certified Forest Bathing Guide and would love to curate an experience tailor-fit to the needs of your group. Her contact number is (262) 206-1329.

Are there any safety concerns?

The Three Eagle Trail is an active bike and pedestrian trail; please use caution. Ticks and mosquitoes are a regular part of the forest in the Northwoods; please check yourself regularly and remove ticks daily. Poison Ivy is also present on our trails; please use precautions and wash your skin if you come in contact with it.

Who can use the Forest Bathing Trail?

All ages and skill levels are welcome to experience the woods using this trail. A self-guided tour can become a routine part of your week, or gather some friends together and create regular memories.

What time is it open?

All the Tara Lila parks are open from Dawn to Dusk. The Forest Bathing Trail is available during all four seasons. How will your experience change with the seasons?