3 Best Hiking Trails in Madison, WI

“Cherokee Marsh Conservation Park is an elegant wetland that covers 2,000 acres and features trails and boardwalks for visitors to explore. The total length of the trails is 4.4 miles, with an elevation gain of 137 feet. This trail system is composed of several loop trails. Each year, thousands of students visit the park for environmental education. The North Unit has 2.6 miles of trails, a boardwalk, and two observation decks that allow visitors to walk across the marsh in several park areas. Cherokee Marsh Conservation Park also includes a diverse array of picturesque spots where visitors can enjoy marsh, prairie, and river views. Shorter loop options are also available. The park also provides public restrooms, wheelchair-accessible entrances, and kid-friendly hikes for added comfort.”

“Owen Conservation Park is a 97-acre area that offers a range of hiking trails, scenic views, plant life, and wildlife biodiversity. The park features 1.5 miles of loop trails with an elevation gain of 150 feet. It takes approximately 35 minutes to complete the total trail. The park is located on a hilltop overlooking Madison's west side and was once the farm and personal retreat of former University of Wisconsin professor Edward T. Owen. The park features multiple trails that ensure both forested and prairie landscapes, with a secret playground at the bottom of the hill in the wooded area. Visitors can find birdhouses, information about local bird species, and plenty of seating along the trails. The park provides monthly guided bird walks for those interested in learning more about the area's birdlife. Owen Conservation Park also provides numerous facilities like public restrooms and wheelchair accessibility for added convenience.”

“UW-Madison Arboretum encompasses 1,260 acres that are dedicated to science and community. This Arboretum is home to some of the world's oldest and most diverse collections of preserved ecological ecosystems. This nature haven features tallgrass and shortgrass prairies, oak savannas, woodlands, and wetlands. UW-Madison Arboretum also provides 17 miles of walking trails and 4 miles of biking trails. This park also includes two garden collections that showcase biodiversity, habitat, beauty, and sustainability. The Arboretum's trail system is 5.3 miles long and gains 232 feet in elevation. The loop trail typically takes about 1 hour and 45 minutes to complete. The Arboretum also ensures hundreds of learning and volunteer opportunities for visitors.”