Greetings, fellow adventurers! As a seasoned hiker and travel blogger, I’ve made it my mission to explore as many hiking trails as possible. And let me tell you, the Milwaukee area has no shortage of fantastic options! If you’re looking to lace up your boots and hit the trail, check out these seven hikes and trails near Milwaukee.
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Kohler-Andrae State Park
Located just north of Sheboygan, Kohler-Andrae State Park offers miles of scenic hiking trails along the Lake Michigan shoreline. You’ll see stunning sand dunes, vast stretches of beach, and plenty of wildlife along the way. Be sure to check out the Black River Trail and the Woodland Dunes Nature Trail for some especially peaceful scenery.
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Ice Age National Scenic Trail
The Ice Age National Scenic Trail stretches over 1,000 miles through Wisconsin, highlighting the state’s unique glacial landscape. The trail passes right through the Milwaukee area, making it a great choice for a day hike. You’ll see rugged terrain, beautiful forests, and fascinating geological formations along the way.
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Lapham Peak Unit of the Kettle Moraine State Forest
Located just 30 minutes west of Milwaukee, the Lapham Peak Unit of the Kettle Moraine State Forest offers a variety of hiking trails to choose from. You can opt for a leisurely walk around the lake on the Prairie Path, or challenge yourself with a climb up the Observation Tower Trail. Don’t miss the park’s famous glacial drumlin hills, which offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Find out more about the Lapham Peak Unit of the Kettle Moraine State Forest
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Devil’s Lake State Park
While Devil’s Lake State Park is a bit of a drive from Milwaukee (about two hours), it’s definitely worth the trip. The park boasts some of the most breathtaking scenery in Wisconsin, thanks to its towering quartzite bluffs and crystal-clear lake. The park has over 29 miles of hiking trails to explore, so be sure to give yourself plenty of time to take it all in.
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Havenwoods State Forest and Nature Center
Located right in the city of Milwaukee, Havenwoods State Forest and Nature Center offers a surprisingly tranquil escape from urban life. The park has three miles of hiking trails to explore, along with a spacious nature center packed with educational exhibits. Keep an eye out for wildlife along the way, as the park is home to a variety of bird species, amphibians, and more.
Find out more about Havenwoods State Forest and Nature Center
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Cedarburg Bog State Natural Area
Just 20 minutes north of Milwaukee, the Cedarburg Bog State Natural Area offers a unique opportunity to explore a rare and fragile ecosystem. The park has three miles of well-maintained hiking trails that wind through the bog, offering glimpses of rare plant species and plenty of wildlife. You’ll also get to see some of the bog’s incredible geological features, like kettle ponds and peat deposits.
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Menomonee River Parkway
If you’re looking for a quick and easy hike right in the city, the Menomonee River Parkway is a great choice. The parkway follows the winding Menomonee River for over 13 miles through Milwaukee, offering beautiful views and plenty of picnic spots along the way. Hiking the full parkway is a bit of a commitment, but you can easily hop on and off at various access points throughout the city.
Don’t miss Kohler-Andrae State Park’s stunning scenery and peaceful trails.
Explore Wisconsin’s fascinating glacial terrain on the Ice Age National Scenic Trail.
Enjoy stunning views and challenging trails at Lapham Peak.
Don’t miss Devil’s Lake’s breathtaking scenery and extensive trail system.
Experience a peaceful nature escape right in the heart of Milwaukee at Havenwoods State Forest.
Get a rare glimpse of a unique ecosystem at the Cedarburg Bog State Natural Area.
Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the picturesque Menomonee River on the Menomonee River Parkway.
There you have it, folks – seven of the best hiking trails near Milwaukee! So grab your boots, pack a snack, and hit the trail. Happy hiking!