Nestled in the heart of Wisconsin, Timms Hill, the state’s highest natural point, reaches an elevation of 1,951 feet, placing it 39th among State High Points. While it may not compete with the towering peaks of the Rockies or Appalachians, Timms Hill boasts a unique charm. Named after Timothy Gahan, a logger who camped near the hill in the late 1800s, it wasn’t officially recognized as Wisconsin’s highest point until a resurvey in the 1960s. Before then, many believed that Rib Mountain, just west of Wausau, held that title.
Takin’ the High Road
Landing in Minneapolis bright and early, I knew I had a full day ahead. First up, grabbing my camping gear from storage and letting them know I wouldn’t be needing it anymore. Next, a quick detour to REI’s flagship store in Bloomington, complete with two indoor rock-climbing towers (because why not?). I’d heard the bugs in Michigan and Minnesota were fierce, so I was on a mission to snag a head net. But with a line that felt longer than a Midwest winter, I decided to keep it simple and head to good ol’ Walmart.
Photos: REI Flagship Store in Bloomington (Minneapolis), MN
Stocking Up for Adventure
Aldi across the highway? Don’t mind if I do! I grabbed a few road trip essentials—snacks and such that would keep me fueled for the drive ahead. Next up – Trader Joe’s just outside St. Paul for a few more provisions (because, hey, variety is the spice of life), and then a final stop at Walmart in Hudson, Wisconsin, to make sure I had everything I needed, including the head net. Fully stocked and ready to roll, I pointed my rental SUV in the direction of Timms Hill, a 2-hour and 40-minute drive ahead of me.
Lost in the Woods (Sort of)
Arriving at Timms Hill County Park, I started to question my internal compass – which says a lot as I go by the nickname Rand McNally. I found a trailhead for both the Timm’s Hill National Trail and Timms Hill Trail, you’d think this was the spot! So I parked my SUV, doused myself in bug spray (no mosquito was gonna get the best of me), and headed out to check the map. Something about the place felt off, though—like showing up to a costume party only to find out it’s a black-tie affair. I drove a little further into the park, and wouldn’t you know it—there it was: the “real” parking lot, complete with restrooms, a big informational sign, and a map that made everything crystal clear. With that, the summit was a short 300-yard hike away. Easy peasy.
Photos: The Entrance off County Road RR | The Road into Timms Hill County Park
Photos: My First Stop – it’s easy to see why I assumed this was the right trailhead
Photos: The real parking lot | Complete with modern facilities
Photos: Trail Marker | The Tower Trail to the Summit
Summit Success: Selfies and Scenic Views
At the summit, I was greeted by the familiar sight of a Highpointers Foundation Bench and a mailbox with a summit register just begging for my autograph. There were two towers to choose from—one being a fire tower with a geomarker, and the other, a wooden observation tower that promised panoramic views. Though the geomarker sat on a 2-foot high concrete monolith, it wasn’t immediately obvious that it would be tucked under the fire tower.
Photos: The Highpointers Foundation Bench and Mailbox
Photos: The Concrete Monolith with the Geomarker under the Fire Tower | The High Point Geomarker
With all the highpointing formalities behind me, I made a beeline for the observation tower. Despite my love-hate relationship with heights, I couldn’t resist climbing to the top. The reward? An endless stretch of rolling hills, lush forests, and glimmering lakes that made the climb worth every step. I even played the role of summit guide, helping a friendly couple locate the geomarker.
Photos: The Stairs – Solid for Climbing | The Fire Tower Still Looms Above the Observation Tower
Photos: A Few of the Stunning Views from the Top!
Photos: The View Looking Down | Holding on for Dear Life, lol (I was actually pretty good on this tower)
After about thirty minutes of summit selfies, register-signing, and view-admiring later, I was back at my car, feeling accomplished. A quick restroom break, and I was ready to hit the road again.
Onward to New Heights
With summit #30 now under my belt, I steered the car north toward L’Anse, Michigan—close to Mount Arvon, the highest point in the state and next on my list. Three hours of driving lay ahead, not to mention a time zone change. I warned you it was a big day—I kicked things off with a 7:45 AM flight from Chicago!
Timms Hill may not have the altitude of some other high points, but it more than makes up for it with its charm, ease of access, and those killer views. Whether you’re a seasoned highpointer or just someone looking for a peaceful escape into nature, Timms Hill is well worth the trip.
Catch you on the road!
Date of Summit: 19 July 2024