5 Places to Hike in Milwaukee

The Great Outdoors called – it said it misses you. If Safer at Home has you missing it, too, we’ve got some good news! Wisconsin has reopened our state parks and trails! Better news? We’ve found some awesome spots for you to check out. So, get out there and get in touch with the nature, tiger!

 

1. Lion’s Den Gorge Nature Preserve

The Lion’s Den Gorge Nature Preserve borders the Lake Michigan shoreline between Mequon and Port Washington. Wooded trails and scenic picnic areas are scattered along some of the last sections of undeveloped bluff land in the state. Many of these trails start in the forest and lead you to the open lakefront.

Where: Grafton, WI

Activities:

• Hiking
• Fishing
• Picnicking

 

2. Hank Aaron State Trail

You can find this 14-mile paved trail along the Milwaukee/Waukesha county line. This relaxing but entertaining route will take you through urban environments, wooded prairies, and lead you to some stunning river views as well.

Where: Waukesha, WI

Activities:

• Hiking
• Picnicking
• Sightseeing

 

3. Oak Leaf Trail

This trail is big. Like, really, really big. It stretches over 125 miles, so you probably won’t be able to see everything in a single trip. You’ll find both wooded and paved sections of the trail, giving you lots of options for biking, walking, running, or some light hiking through some of the Greater Milwaukee Area’s greenest locations.

Where: Multiple Locations

Activities:

• Hiking
• Walking/Running
• Cycling

 

4. Ice Age National Trail – Holy Hill

In addition to a variety of beautiful wooded trails that cater to hikers of all skill levels, the Holy Hill segment of the Ice Age National Trail also offers visitors some gorgeous sightseeing opportunities, including the tower and historic basilica of Holy Hill.

Where: Hartford, WI

Activities:

• Hiking
• Camping
• Sightseeing

 

5. Parnell Tower Loop

The 60-foot wooden observation tower is the main attraction in this section of the Kettle Moraine State Park, but the surrounding forest trails and scenic farmlands are nothing to scoff at. The tower is located at the highest elevation point in the forest, and, on a clear day, that climb will reward you with a view of up to 25 square miles.

Where: Kettle Moraine State Forest

Activities:

• Hiking
• Climbing
• Sightseeing

 

Do you have a favorite hiking spot in the Milwaukee Area? Share in the comments or tag us from your hike on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram using #sharelemonade!