Whether you're a first-time hiker or someone who's got folks with little legs looking to ease into the sport, here are 14 of the best nature walks for kids in Wisconsin. At one mile and under, some are even kid-friendly hiking trails with waterfalls! Short and sweet, these toddler friendly trails provide a great introduction to the natural beauty of Wisconsin. So pack up the family, grab your hiking boots, and let's get the adventure rolling!
1. Kohler-Andrae State Park - Black River Marsh Boardwalk
At beautiful Kohler-Andrae State Park, you can enjoy some of the only sand dunes in Wisconsin. Short trails include Black River Marsh Boardwalk (.25 miles). You can also hike the Creeping Juniper Nature Trail, a half-mile trail going around the nature center. Both offer their own scenic beauty and are among the most popular kid-friendly hikes around Wisconsin. Located at 1020 Beach Park Ln, Sheboygan, WI 53081.
Mirror Lake State Park encompasses a couple of short trails. The Ringling Pass is just .3 miles. The Nature Trail is .7 miles. And the Kilbourn Trail is .8 miles. All are rather easy to hike so no worries about those little legs (or the big ones, for that matter) getting tired too fast! Located at E10320 Fern Dell Rd, Baraboo, WI 53913.
This park has several trails that are less than a mile, making it a good beginner stop. It's also an easy side trip when you're spending a weekend in quaint New Glarus. This path is all about the prairie. The 0.8-mile trail offers interpretive signs with information about prairie life, history, and management. The Bison Nature trail meanders through the northern park prairie and includes some unusual features such as a swinging bench and a life-size Bison replica. Located at W5508 CTH NN, New Glarus, WI 53574.
The trails at the Horicon Marsh take you through the largest freshwater cattail marsh in the United States. It is home to 300 species of birds. The Indermuehle Island Loop is only .8 miles. which is very kid-friendly and to be honest, one of the best hikes in Wisconsin - hands down. Located at N7725 WI-28, Horicon, WI 53032.
You might not think you'd find some of the best hikes in Wisconsin on a college campus, but that is exactly what you'll encounter at the University of Wisconsin Arboretum. There are paths crisscrossing the Arboretum, so you can walk as much or as little as you'd like!
This 1-mile trail at Rock Island State Park will take you clear across the island, from Green Bay to Lake Michigan. Along the way, you'll see the beautiful coastlines as well as all the lush vegetation in the middle. It is definitely one of the most scenic hikes in Wisconsin and well worth the journey. Located at 1924 Indian Point Rd, Washington, WI 54246.
The Old Wagon Road Trail at Wyalusing State Park was originally built to carry wagons from the bluff tops to Walnut Eddy. This heavily-wooded trail starts across the road from the basketball/tennis courts and ends at the Knob Picnic Shelter overlooking the Wisconsin River. It's 0.8 miles long and a perfect introduction to hiking. Located on State Park Ln, Bagley, WI 53801.
This 1-mile trail at Hartman Creek State Park crosses a narrow strip of land between Mid and Hartman lakes. As one of the most popular kid-friendly hikes around Wisconsin, it's a really cool and unique way to get out among the vegetation. Located at N2480 Hartman Creek Rd, Waupaca, WI 54981.
Maybe the most unique and stunning 0.4 miles you'll ever walk, this is the western terminus of the 1,200-mile National Scenic Ice Age Trail and the most geologically unique trail at Interstate State Park. It includes scenic views of the Dalles of the St. Croix River gorge. Walk atop Old Man of the Dalles rock formation past world-famous potholes formed by glacial meltwaters. Located at I-35, St Croix Falls, WI 54024.
10. Cedarburg Bog State Natural Area - Boardwalk Trail
Cedarburg Bog is the most intact large bog in southeastern Wisconsin and it is composed of a mosaic of vegetation types. Once part of a large glacial lake, the bog is a relict community - a southern example of the type more commonly found in northern Wisconsin. There are six lakes remaining within the bog, all with varying sizes and depths. There's a short boardwalk trail system that lets you get out and explore. If you're searching for "hiking trails near me," this one will certainly rise to the top of the list! Located at approximately 2700 WI-33, Saukville, WI 53080.
11. Governor Dodge State Park - Stephens Falls Trail
There are several shorter trails here at popular Governor Dodge State Park, but the 0.5-mile paved trail that takes you to Stephens Falls is the star. It's easy and among the most scenic hikes in Wisconsin, ending at a beautiful spot while going through the forest and highlighting all kinds of rock outcroppings. Located at 4175 State Highway 23, Dodgeville, WI 53533.
The MacKenzie Center, located in the town of Poynette, is one of the most diverse education centers in Wisconsin featuring great interpretive trails, exhibits, and museums. The State Game Farm is connected to the Center and is adjacent to the arboretum on the western half of the property. It's the perfect spot for a family day outside and the trail is one of the most popular kid-friendly hikes in Wisconsin. The entrance to the MacKenzie Center is located at the intersection of County Road CS & Park Road in Poynette.
If you're looking for easy hikes in Wisconsin, the Ice Cave Trail is a great option. It begins and ends at a picnic area, making it a perfect place for a family meal. It also, true to its name, actually leads to an ice cave. Though it looks like a cave on approach, it's more a rock depression with a small spring running over the upper edge. In the winter, the natural spring waters freeze into a giant icicle! Located at E13660 State Highway 33, Ontario, WI 54651.
14. Harrington Beach State Park - Quarry Lake Trail
At Harrington Beach State Park there are four short trails here worth taking. But if you do just one, it should be the Quarry Lake trail. This 0.75-mile hiking trail circles Quarry Lake and the deep, serene waters of this 26-acre lake are surrounded by limestone ledges lined with white cedar trees. Located at 531 County Road D, Belgium, WI 53004.
Have you hiked along any of these trails? What other nature walks for kids do you love? Let us know in the comments!
Think you can handle a slightly longer hike? Then check out these amazing trails extending 3 miles or less!
A Wisconsin waterfalls excursion isn't solely a warm-weather activity. Some waterfalls in Wisconsin are at their best in winter. That’s definitely the case with the waterfall at Fonferek’s Glen. Sure, it’s beautiful in the summer… but there's no comparison to the icy wonder it becomes in the winter! The Fonferek's Glen reviews are absolutely glowing! Take a closer look at Fonferek Falls, which becomes one of the most beautiful frozen waterfalls in Wisconsin when colder weather rolls around.
This winter, plan a visit to one of the best natural sites in Brown County, Wisconsin: Fonferek’s Glen! It's located about 15 minutes from Green Bay in a county park, and this 74-acre geologic gem is home to natural wonders galore, such as dolomite cliffs, a stone archway, and a waterfall.
You only have to walk about 100 yards from the parking lot to get to the designated viewing area for the the 30-foot waterfall, which is easily the park’s most popular attraction. In warmer months, you can explore the flowing fall more closely - it is a great spot to cool off and splash around during the hot days of summer. However, when it comes to scenic beauty, there’s no better time to visit the waterfall at Fonferek’s Glen than winter. As the temps begin to drop, the fall’s trickling water forms a frozen cascade that’s nothing short of stunning. The icy wonder can be admired from afar or close-up, and you can even walk behind the frozen cascade!
The waterfall isn’t the only amazing natural wonder you’ll find at Fonferek’s Glen, though. There’s also a natural bridge, which, like the waterfall, can be viewed from near and far. Trekking to the natural bridge requires hiking along a stream bed, which is frozen in winter, making for a great cold-weather adventure.
So, did you know about this idyllic county park? What about its cascading fall? Ever visited in winter? We think the trails in this park, even beyond the waterfalls, offer some of the best winter hikes in Wisconsin. And guess what: Fonferek’s Glen isn’t the only place where you can find a natural bridge in Wisconsin. Before hiking to any of these places, make sure to check with AllTrails Plus for reviews of the trail and updates regarding conditions and closures.
Best Travel Gifts of 2024, Hand-picked by Our Travel Experts
If you're looking for gifting ideas for the travelers in your life this holiday season, check out our list of our favorite, tried and true travel gifts.
Welcome to Hand-Picked, a curated series highlighting the travel gear and goods our staff truly love. From practical essentials to playful extras, these are the items that make travel fun—and shopping even better! Each pick is independently selected by our editors, and if you make a purchase through our links, Only In Your State may earn a commission.
There is nothing that makes me happier than picking out the perfect gift. Friends often ask me for ideas of what to gift to their family, children, partners, friends... the challenge of finding that special item (or experience) is my favorite kind of adrenaline rush. And because of this, the holiday season is like my version of sky diving.
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Our team of travel experts here at Only In Your State joined me in selecting our favorite travel gifts of the season. We've hand-picked 24 gifts that we own and love and would joyfully wrap up with a shiny bow for other travel lovers in our lives. We've chosen a variety of options, from candles to books, to the perfect travel shoes and bags. There is also a wide range of prices for any gifting budget. Pick out a few to gift this season and maybe even send some of these ideas to those who are shopping for you. It may be the holiday season, but it is also always travel season in our minds.
Why We Love Them: How fun is this candle? I love picking out meaningful gifts and this one is perfect for the woman in your life who can't help but plan another trip. Or, maybe this is you and this candle needs to make its way into your own stocking! The LEADO store on Amazon actually has several unique gifts and it's worth checking out. Where to Buy Them: Shop this candle and more on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $16.99 Bonus: Manager of Editorial Megan Shute swears by these rechargeable USB lighters – add one to your favorite candle lover's stocking, and they will not be disappointed.
Why We Love It: We've tried some pretty spiffy eye masks, but have you ever experienced an eye massager? The Bob & Brad EyeOasis 2 is as relaxing as it gets. With adjustable pressure & heat settings, this is a must-have if you want to tune out the world and treat yourself. It's the first thing we reach for when we feel a migraine coming on! Where To Buy It: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $59.99 (normally $74.99)
Why We Love Them: It's safe to say I am in my sneaker era and I know I'm not alone. When I discovered Kizik shoes, especially their sneakers, I felt like I discovered gold at the end of the rainbow. I love that the brand is size inclusive (I have big feet) and you literally just slip these on and go. Hands-free shoes! This makes them perfect for travel and the fact that these go with everything means no over-packing necessary. Where to Buy Them: Check out the Milan sneaker and several other styles (boots, too!) on the Kizik website. Price (at time of publication): $149
Why We Love Them: I discovered Frankie Jean while in Austin with my daughter and once I saw the Y'ALL Baseball Cap, I knew it would make the perfect souvenir -- and travel hat! I always travel with a baseball hat; they're handy for post-plane hair and offer protection from the elements. Frankie Jean has an array of adorable caps for non-y'allers, too, with all 50 states represented in the web store. Where to Buy It: Visit Frankie Jean online for this hat and many others! Price (at time of publication): $32
Why We Love Them: The Yoto Mini is an excellent gadget for kids on the go. Physical cards allow children to expand their imagination through audiobooks, music, activities, and educational audio. Manager of Editorial Megan Shute purchased the mini-player for her daughter's 4th birthday earlier this year ahead of an overseas move and has been endlessly impressed: "Not only did it replace her standard sound machine with its white noise options, but it has given us another portable screen-free entertainment option for at home and while traveling. The Yoto is also perfect for anyone who asks what your child wants for the holidays — cards for their new Yoto collection, please!" Where to Buy Them: Yoto is available on their website and Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $69.99 for player
Why We Love Them: The Vuori Performance Joggers might just be the most comfortable piece of clothing we own. The buttery-soft, stretchy material is the perfect weight, and the slim yet relaxed fit is one of the most universally flattering styles we've tried. Engagement Editor Meg Archer has gifted these to many people over the last few years: "I have yet to hear anything but rave reviews (and a bit of friendly shaming for spawning new obsessions). Don't be surprised if these just so happen to, umm... multiply... in your closet. I couldn't stop at just one pair." Bonus: The matching Vuori Halo Performance Hoodie is one of our favorite lightweight layers for all types of travel! Where To Buy Them: Buy Now From Vuori Price (at time of publication): $94
Why We Love Them: If you have a friend or family member who loves to travel and loves bags (who doesn't?), then this Calpak tote bag is the ultimate gift. When I say ultimate, I mean it, because this is the ultimate bag. My own tote bag is pictured above, when used on an overnight trip. I've also used it as a carry-on bag on flights, to tote sports equipment around for my kids, and for a weekend getaway. It is much larger than it looks in this photo and keeps everything organized. It also wipes clean! Where to Buy Them: Calpak has countless travel bags, but you can find this particular one on their website. Price (at time of publication): $131.75
Why We Love Them: I've purchased two of these portable hammocks with lightweight frames throughout the years — one as a gift for my father and one for myself after realizing how fantastic the hammock was. While it's not a travel product, per se, it has made my everyday life feel more like a vacation, something we could all use a bit more of these days. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $69.99
Why We Love Them: All of the staff at Only In Your State loves to represent their roots and Wear Your Roots allows you to do that in a fashionable - and comfortable - way. We love the wears from this Montana-based company and we happen to believe that these hoodies, shirts, hats, and more make the perfect gift. Where to Buy Them: Shop now on the Wear Your Roots website Price (at time of publication): Varies by Product
Why We Love It: It's taken several trips for me to figure out my perfect "weekender bag that's TSA approved," but I've found my perfect carry on with the TOBIQ Colorado 30L. An Instagram ad caught my eye during a late-night scroll session and I was intrigued by the colorful compartments and versatility of the bag, which can be carried as a duffle or as a backpack (I prefer the backpack for even weight distribution and airport navigation.) Made of durable, weather-resistant recycled materials, I've stashed this bag under my seat and in the overhead compartment; it's easy to maneuver and the top zip pocket is perfect for easy phone/ID access. Bonus: I loved this carry on bag so much, I purchased TOBIQ's Toiletry Bag; it fits perfectly inside one of the Colorado's four compartments and has a smart, intuitive design with the brand's signature "plethora of zippered pouches and pockets."
Where to Buy Them: Visit tobiqtravel.com to purchase the Colorado 30L and/or Toiletry Bag. Price (at time of publication): $199 (Colorado 30L)/$69 (Toiletry Bag)
Why We Love Them: The Zestt Dreamsoft Travel Scarf doubles as a blanket, making it the perfect travel accessory for year-round adventures – especially on airplanes! Made from organic cotton and easy to wash and care for, we have even used this piece as a makeshift picnic blanket while traveling. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $50
Why I Love It: This raincoat is absolutely perfect: it's light (12.4 ounces!) and super packable, "self stuffing" into one of its pockets in a Houdini-like feat. The hood is generously sized to fit over a hat and has a cord-and-hook design that keeps rain out (seriously -- this photo was taken after a trip to Portland, Oregon, where its water resistance was put to the test!). I purchased my Torrentshellfive years ago and it still looks brand new, the fabric has never snagged or ripped despite being put through the ringer! Bonus: The Patagonia Torrentshell 3L Rain Jacket comes in men's sizes, too! Where to Buy It: Buy it now on REI. Price (at time of publication): $179 (both men's and women's)
Why We Love Them: I love gifting books. Maybe it's the writer in me or the nostalgia I feel every time I sit down and open up an actual book. Coffee table books make for great gifts and I absolutely love this collection of photography of New York City. Whether you know someone who loves NYC or has a wanderlust for the Big Apple, this gorgeous book just needs a bow on top and it's ready to gift. Where to Buy Them: Buy this book and others in the collection on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $19.78
Why We Love Them: A well-stocked first aid kit is essential for any traveler, and we love these small Welly kits. They're the perfect option to keep in your car, diaper bag, or carry-on for accidents on the go. Another excellent stocking stuffer for anyone in your life. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Walmart Price (at time of publication): $9.70
Why We Love Them: The OluKai Pehuea Lī Sneaker is lightweight and breathable, but also extremely comfortable and surprisingly supportive. It's our go-to shoe when we know we're going to be on our feet all day! We love that they can be worn as either sneakers or slides, so they're easy to slip off when going through TSA checks. Plus, the style goes with just about everything. Where To Buy Them: Buy Now From OluKai Price (at time of publication): $110
Why I Love It: Fact: Airplanes are notoriously dry, dry, dry. No matter how much water I drink both before and during the flight, I always find myself in a hydration deficit for days. My skin feels so tight and parched during flights, and while I've been known to slap on a sheet mask at 12,000 feet, my 11 year old's mortification on a recent trip had me rethinking this strategy. My solution? BioRepublic's Lost Baggage biocellulose eye masks. These mini moisturizers contain an uber-hydrating cocktail of peptides, hyaluronic acid, squalene, rose water, and vitamin E that feel oh-so-refreshing on parched skin. Bonus: Each of these little masks has enough moisture that I'm able to massage the excess into the rest of my face after my brief, in-flight spa moment. Where to Buy It: I have a BioRepublic Lost Baggage Under Eye Emergency Repair Mask Subscribe & Save order through Amazon -- you'll get a slight discount if you set this up! Price (at time of publication): 3/$15.00
Why I Love It: I am a dedicated Stanley girl, but when I travel, I like to keep things as light and portable as possible. A recent trip to Washington D.C. had me singing the praises of my Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle, especially after paying $6 for a tiny bottle of water the afternoon we arrived and embarked sans water. I love the bottle's muted color options (I have the Hydaway in Twilight), sturdy handle, and fuss-free cleaning; fully extended it holds 17 ounces of water, making this smart little number perfect for filling up on the go. Where to Buy Them: The Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle is available at several online merchants; I purchased through REI. Available here on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $27.95.
Why We Love Them: This is one of those things that we don't know how we traveled without them. Packing cubes keep things organized, save space in a suitcase, and take the pain out of the packing process. If you know and love someone who travels, this set would make the perfect gift. Where to Buy Them: There are so many options for packing cubes on Amazon, but we particularly LOVE this set. Price (at time of publication): $16.99 for 8 cubes
Why We Love Them: I've been a fan of Beis for years now, starting with the Weekender (it’s my absolute favorite travel bag for short car trips or flying and is surprisingly roomy). I recently purchased another Beis item — the backpack. With a padded interior sleeve, two water bottle pockets, and plenty of organization built-in — we’re talking zippered interior pockets, pen slots, a key leash, and more — this is the best backpack I’ve ever owned. It also has a full-zip opening, so it’s easy to pack, and the trolley pass-through makes it the perfect carry-on companion. This olive beauty is officially my new favorite personal item while traveling, and I’ve already brought it on several trips. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Beis Price (at time of publication): $88
Why We Love Them: We bought this set of two accessory organizers for a recent trip and think they would make a fun stocking stuffer filled with all sorts of small and useful travel goodies — chapstick, hair ties, mini lotions, bandaids, etc. The gift recipient can then use the organizers for travel. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $17.66
Why We Love It: The sleek style of the Away Everywhere Zip Backpack looks at home in just about any environment, making it a great transition bag if you need to hop right from a flight into a work meeting (or want to start exploring as soon as you land). It's water-resistant, has a padded laptop sleeve to keep your devices safe, and the full wrap-around zipper makes it incredibly easy to grab what you need in a cramped airplane seat. I love it! Where To Buy It:Buy Now From Away Price (at time of publication): $195
Why We Love It: Engagement Editor Meg Archer recently travel-testedthis high-end aluminum travel case, and it can only be described as the Lamborghini of Luggage: "The Sterling Pacific 40L Travel Case is hands down the best I've ever owned or reviewed. It's stunning inside and out, timelessly stylish, and rolls like a dream. Honestly, I didn't know luggage could move like this." It's undeniably a splurge, but if you're looking for a piece of eye-catching yet understated luxury-tier luggage, this is it. Where To Buy It: Buy Now From Sterling Pacific Price (at time of publication): $2,150
Why We Love It: Throw out all your assumptions about generators. The Anker Power Bank Portable Generator is all-electric (so it's totally silent), super compact, and has a massive 60,000 mAh capacity that can power multiple devices dozens of times on a single charge. It also retains an impressive 85% charge after a whole year of non-use, making it absolutely vital during emergencies. This bad boy kept us in touch with family during a multi-day blackout, but we also love it for camping trips and off-grid adventures. Where To Buy It:Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $149.99
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If you need anymore ideas for the best travel gifts of the season, we have you covered. Check out more of our travel-themed gift guides...
