Best Nature Walks in Madison Area

Picnic Point

A classic spot to view the capitol and Univeristy from across the lake. The Lakeshore path goes from the terrace all the way out to the peninsula, but if you don’t want to walk that far (me) there is a free parking lot outside the entrance which is 8/10 mi from the point. There are lots of trail options if you want to extend your time!

Picnic Point

Tenney Park

Not as nature filled, but with an array of fun bridges, the locks, and water front access, it offers a lot of interesting sights. There are both parking lots and street parking, as well as a playground, beach, tennis courts and fields.

Tenney Park

Yahara Heights County Park

A beautiful walk with views of the Yahara river. Nice walking trail that took about an hour out and back with a dog and some sight seeing. Path entrance is right next to the dog park.

Yahara Heights County Park

Pheasant Branch Conservancy

There are a great variation of trails through this 160 acre area. My favorite is the trail through the forest area, starting at century blvd and walking either direction from there. They do have a few small parking lots and there are some access spots near street parking. It can get very buggy!

Pheasant Branch

UW-Madison Arboretum

Beautiful assortment of trees and occasionally some wild turkeys and other birds! I love that the trees are labeld so you can learn while exploring.

UW Arboretum

Pope Farm Conservancy

Well known for their sunflower field in late summer (though not happening in 2020), this location has a lot of other beautiful prairie settings!

Pope Farm Concervancy

Governor Nelson State Park

Nice prairie walk with pretty flowers and grasses. Need a state park pass to get in, there is also a beach and picnic area in the park along the water as well.

Governor Nelson State Park

Vilas park

Vilas park has a peaceful walk along the marsh area of Lake Wingra. Vilas Park is also home to the zoo, which is free! There is a parking lot as well as street parking near by.

Vilas Park

Wingra Park

Also on the shore of Lake Wingra, there is a nice short path that runs from Wingra Boat to the west. Wingra park is also great for lounging on the grass and renting kayaks!

Wingra Park

Olin Park

Opposite the capitol on Lake Monona, Oilin park has a collection of trails, my favorite of which is along the water to Turvilles Point. Also, a great starting point for the 11 mile lake loop around lake Monona if you want a long non nature bike ride or walk. Parking lots and bathrooms!

Olin Park

Cherokee Marsh- North Unit

Wide walking path with nice views of the Yahara river.

Cherokee March

James Madison Park

Not a super naturey walk, which is why its so low on this list, but it is a beautiful place to watch the sunset! There is a short path along the water. Parking lot, bathrooms, playground, this park is a go-to hang out spot!

James Madison Park

Epic Campus

Also only partly nature, but super interesting to look at all the buildings, art sculptures, and landscaping. Outside Cassiopeia is a beautiful fountain. The wizards campus is one of my favorite non nature spots to walk through!

Epic