After months inside perhaps you're craving some outside time. Now that summer has come and we are still being asked to socially distance one of the best outside activities we can do is go hiking. But where can one "hike" around the Milwaukee metro area? Here's 5 great places that you can go out and get a little dirt under your feet.
1. Lion’s Den Gorge Nature Preserve
The Lion’s Den Gorge Nature Preserve borders the Lake Michigan shoreline between Mequon and Port Washington. Wooded trails and scenic picnic areas are scattered along some of the last sections of undeveloped bluff land in the state. Many of these trails start in the forest and lead you to the open lakefront.
Where:Grafton, WI
2. Hank Aaron State Trail
You can find this 14-mile paved trail along the Milwaukee/Waukesha county line. This relaxing but entertaining route will take you through urban environments, wooded prairies, and lead you to some stunning river views as well.
Where:Waukesha, WI
3. Oak Leaf Trail
This trail is big. Like, really, really big. It stretches over 125 miles, so you probably won’t be able to see everything in a single trip. You’ll find both wooded and paved sections of the trail, giving you lots of options for biking, walking, running, or some light hiking through some of the Greater Milwaukee Area’s greenest locations.
Where:Multiple Locations
4. Ice Age National Trail – Holy Hill
In addition to a variety of beautiful wooded trails that cater to hikers of all skill levels, the Holy Hill segment of the Ice Age National Trail also offers visitors some gorgeous sightseeing opportunities, including the tower and historic basilica of Holy Hill.
Where:Hartford, WI
5. Parnell Tower Loop
The 60-foot wooden observation tower is the main attraction in this section of the Kettle Moraine State Park, but the surrounding forest trails and scenic farmlands are nothing to scoff at. The tower is located at the highest elevation point in the forest, and, on a clear day, that climb will reward you with a view of up to 25 square miles.
Where:Kettle Moraine State Forest
Source: Share Lemonade
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