Published Oct 30, 2024

This Natural Wonder in Wisconsin Is the Definition of a Hidden Gem

Nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts will love Crex Meadows State Wildlife Area, a true hidden gem natural wonder in Wisconsin

Published Oct 30, 2024

Written by

Trent Jonas

Nature|Forests

Published Oct 25, 2024

The Iconic Trail in Wisconsin Everyone Should Hike Once in Their Lifetime

Published Oct 25, 2024

Written by

Trent Jonas

The Ice Age National Scenic Trail in Wisconsin, although a national scenic trail since 1980, is one of the newest National Park Service units in the country, receiving its official designation in December 2023. And Lapham Peak, located within the Kettle Moraine State Forest, is the highest point in Waukesha County, rising more than 200 feet above the surrounding landscape. So, I think taking the Ice Age Trail to Lapham Peak really is one of the most iconic hikes in Wisconsin. And anyone in the Badger State who loves hiking owes it to themselves to lace up their boots and take this hike.

You'll find this segment of the Ice Age National Scenic Trail, unsurprisingly, in the Lapham Peak Unit of the Kettle Moraine State Forest. This is one of the forest's smaller units, as well as one of its most urban. But you can't tell that from heavily forested landscape. The best clue you'll find about its proximity to Waukesha and the Milwaukee metropolitan area is the number of people you may find yourself sharing the trail with. But that's alright - there's plenty of room for everyone!

The hike is a 3.1-mile loop over well-maintained trails and varying surfaces, ranging from boardwalk to grass and packed dirt. It's considered moderately challenging, though, because of an elevation gain that's nearly 400 feet. As much as this hike is about the journey - through lowlands and forest - don't forget to stop and savor the destination: The views from the 45-foot observation tower atop Lapham Peak art stunning! Even the relatively-low 250 feet of extra elevation offers miles of extra perspective over this fairly low-lying part of the Badger State. Don't forget to take a moment and soak it all in while hydrating for the journey back down to the trail head.

As a segment of the state's most storied trail - now a national park unit - and one of the best viewpoints in the Badger State, I really do think this is one of the most iconic hikes in Wisconsin, and you should definitely consider getting out and doing it. Bring the AllTrails Plus app along with you to trace your path, count your steps and calories, and preview the hike. You'll probably be hungry after you finish your hike - and that's a good thing. Because the incredible Belfrē Kitchen, a fantastic locavore eatery in a former church, is located just minutes away in the community of Delafield.

Nature|Hiking

Published Sep 26, 2024

The Parking Lot for This Waterfall Hike in Wisconsin Fills up Fast on Weekends

Discover the beauty of Willow River State Park in Wisconsin. Learn tips to avoid crowds and enjoy hiking, camping, and winter activities in this scenic park.

Published Sep 26, 2024

Written by

Trent Jonas

With so many incredible hiking destinations in Wisconsin to choose from, it's kind of amazing that any of them are particularly crowded - I mean, there's room for everybody, right? Unfortunately that's not always the case, and some places, like Devil's Lake State Park, are particularly notorious for their parking boondoggles, with hikers and other visitors battling for spots in lots that can be full as early as 9 a.m. Another place where the parking lot can feel more like Costco at Christmas than a peaceful nature getaway is Willow River State Park, near Hudson, WI - especially on weekends. Even so, it's beautiful and absolutely worth visiting - you just need to know when to go.

I think Willow River is one of the most beautiful state parks in Wisconsin - and we have a lot of gorgeous parks. That's certainly one reason for its popularity. With more than 2,800 acres of mixed terrain, from forest to rushing river, folks flock to this park for outdoor fun

It's close proximity to the Twin Cities metro area in Minnesota is another factor. On a good traffic day, you can get to Willow River State Park from St. Paul, MN in half an hour. The eastern suburbs are even closer. So, on summer weekend days, you can expect to see plenty of people in the parking lots and on the trails.

The parking lots and trails closest to Willow Falls tend to be the busiest.

So, if you go on a weekend, you should try and arrive as early as possible, or park far away from the falls. Otherwise, plan on visiting during the week or the shoulder seasons - although autumn is busy, as well, because of leaf peeping. The park is also lovely in the winter, when snowshoeing and cross-country skiing are popular. Come at one of these times, and you may just have the trails - and the falls - to yourself.

If you haven't made it over to Willow River State Park, I highly recommend doing so - especially if you can get there on a weekday. Otherwise, pack some patience; it's worth it. There's a lot more to this wonderful park than just its waterfall, though. With 13 miles of trails across terrain ranging from prairie to forest, as well as rock climbing routes and the Willow River Water Trail, this park is a hot spot for outdoor adventure in Wisconsin. Camping is available in the park, with more than 150 sites across three different campgrounds. Visit the Willow River State Park website for camping information or to make reservations. AllTrails Plus is a great resource for trail maps and to preview the best hikes in the park.

Have you hiked in Willow River State Park near Hudson, WI? Tell us about your experience, and be sure to clue us in on your favorite tips and tricks for avoiding crowds in the parking lots or on trail.

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