Take a Hike: 6 Easy Family Treks in Wisconsin

There’s nothing better than enjoying some Wisconsin scenery on a relaxing hike through one of our state parks or natural areas. And having little ones along for the walk doesn’t mean that you still can’t get out and get active—here are some of the best trails to explore with the whole crew. 

Badger State Trail, South Central

The Badger State Trail is a former railway that starts in Madison and heads south to Illinois (though there are plenty of shorter segments easy to hop on and off). The first six miles from the capital city are paved and weave between urban and forested scenery before turning to packed limestone with views of prairie, farmland and rolling hills. While the impressive Stewart Tunnel is currently closed, there are plenty of fun rest stops close to the trail like Icki Sticki in Verona that’s perfect for grabbing snow cones together.

Doughboys Nature Trail, North Central

Located within the scenic Copper Falls State Park, this trail in the heart of the park follows along the Bad River and has stops along the way where families can view the awe-inspiring Copper and Brownstone waterfalls.

Take the one-mile spur off the trail that leads visitors to a 65-foot observation tower to discover incredible vistas of Lake Superior, the Apostle Islands and the Penokee Range. With impressive sights and plenty of opportunities for wildlife spotting, there’s something on this trail for everyone in your crew to enjoy. 

Kettle Moraine State Trail Lapham Peak Unit, Southeast

The Kettle Moraine State Trail - Lapham Peak Unit is a lovely, easy trail situated 25 miles west of Milwaukee in Delafield. It's easy to get to (just one mile off the Interstate) and offers wildlife viewing and 17 miles of lighted loop trails.

Pick from eight different trails, but whichever you choose, be sure to climb the 45-foot observation tower on top of the highest point in Waukesha County for stellar views in every season.

UW-Madison Arboretum, South Central

The UW-Madison Arboretum in the heart of the capital city is 20 miles of impeccably groomed nature trails and boardwalks that traverse woods, prairies, gardens, savannas, marshes and even a “lost city”—a Madison subdivision that never came to fruition.

The friendly visitor center has tons of things to keep little explorers busy, like a library, theater and gallery. The northern end of the preserve runs along the gorgeous Lake Wingra, and is only a hop, skip and jump away from the free Henry Vilas Zoo.

Pattison State Park, Northwest

Pattison State Park is extra-special because it not only offers over seven miles of trails, but it has the state’s highest waterfalls and the fourth-highest waterfall east of the Rockies. The Black River passes through the park, then flows over the 31-foot Twin Little Manitou Falls, which pour into Interfalls Lake. Walk the two-mile trail along Interfalls Lake for scenic water views, and make sure to stroll along the short .5-mile Big Manitou Falls overlook to have your pint-size hikers take in the 165-foot-high majesty.

Wyalusing State Park, Southwest

Perched 500 feet above the Wisconsin and Mississippi Rivers, Wyalusing State Park (one of the state’s oldest) has nine walking trails that lead through small waterfalls, woods, Native American effigy mounds and natural areas for wildlife observation. The short Bluff Trail is easy and has sights from atop the Wisconsin River bluffs, and a wooden staircase leads down to the Treasure Cave, where kids can explore a limestone cavern. The Sugar Maple Trail is a self-guided nature trail with signs pointing out plants and ecological concepts for little learners.

Turn your hike into a weekend getaway with these spots for kid-friendly camping!

Ready for refreshing outdoor fun? Check trail conditions and know before you go with the Wisconsin Trail Report.