Best Backpacking Destinations in Madison, Wisconsin, United States
1. Devil's Lake State Park
A stunning park with a large glacial lake and sandstone bluffs for hiking, offering breathtaking views.
- Scenic Beauty: Features unique geological formations and crystal-clear waters
- Outdoor Activities: Offers camping, rock climbing, swimming, and fishing opportunities
- Wildlife Viewing: Home to diverse wildlife such as eagles, deer, and turkeys
2. Ice Age National Scenic Trail
A 1,000-mile hiking trail showcasing Wisconsin's unique glacial landscapes and natural areas.
- Length: Covers a vast area with segments suitable for backpacking trips
- Natural Beauty: Offers diverse landscapes including forests, wetlands, and prairies
- Historical Significance: Follows the path of a glacier and passes through numerous historical sites
3. Coolidge State Park
A peaceful park located on the shores of Lake Waubesa, featuring camping, hiking trails, and fishing.
- Lake Access: Offers excellent opportunities for canoeing or kayaking
- Campgrounds: Provides a variety of camping options including hike-in sites
- Wildlife Observation: Home to great blue herons, loons, and beavers
4. Stevens Point Area Preserve
A network of preserves offering hiking trails, birdwatching, and opportunities for wildlife observation.
- Biodiversity: Home to numerous plant and animal species, including endangered ones
- Scenic Views: Features picturesque landscapes with wetlands, woodlands, and prairies
- Conservation Efforts: Dedicated to preserving and protecting Wisconsin's natural resources
5. Governor Dodge State Park
A popular park with hiking trails, campgrounds, and scenic views of the surrounding valley.
- Historic Sites: Features several historic sites from Wisconsin's pioneer days
- Hiking Trails: Offers a variety of trails with varying difficulty levels
- Camping Options: Provides tent camping, group camping, and horse camping areas
6. Kettle Moraine State Forest - Southern Unit
A beautiful forest with rolling hills, scenic lakes, and hiking trails suitable for backpackers.
- Scenic Drives: Features the famous Scuppernong Road Scenic Drive
- Nature Education: Offers interpretive programs and guided hikes
- Recreational Opportunities: Provides opportunities for horseback riding, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing
7. Wisconsin River State Trail
A rail trail converted into a hiking and biking trail, running along the scenic Wisconsin River.
- Length: Spans over 40 miles from Prairie du Sac to Mosinee
- Scenic River Views: Offers beautiful views of the Wisconsin River and surrounding landscape
- Accessibility: Allows for easy access to nearby towns and communities
8. Mirror Lake State Park
A picturesque park with a clear lake, hiking trails, and scenic views of the surrounding hills.
- Canoeing and Kayaking: Offers canoeing and kayaking opportunities on the clear Mirror Lake
- Scenic Beauty: Features stunning views of Mirror Lake and the surrounding hills
- Hiking Trails: Offers several hiking trails with varying difficulty levels
9. Pewit's Nest County Park
A scenic park with hiking trails and breathtaking views of the Baraboo Bluffs.
- Scenic Views: Offers panoramic views of the Baraboo Hills from multiple lookout points
- Hiking Trails: Features several hiking trails with varying difficulty levels
- Geological Formations: Showcases unique geological formations, including the famous Pewit's Nest
10. Rocky Arbor State Park
A beautiful park with hiking trails, scenic views, and opportunities for wildlife observation.
- Scenic Views: Offers breathtaking views of the Wisconsin River Valley
- Wildlife Observation: Home to numerous bird species, including bald eagles and ospreys
- Hiking Trails: Provides several hiking trails with varying difficulty levels
11. Willow River State Park
A scenic park featuring a beautiful river, waterfalls, and hiking trails.
- Waterfalls: Boasts two magnificent waterfalls, Willow Falls and Merrick Falls
- Hiking Trails: Offers several hiking trails with varying difficulty levels
- Camping Opportunities: Provides opportunities for tent and trailer camping
12. Hartman Creek State Park
A peaceful park with a lake, hiking trails, and opportunities for wildlife observation.
- Lake Access: Offers access to Hartman Lake for fishing and canoeing
- Hiking Trails: Provides several hiking trails with varying difficulty levels
- Wildlife Observation: Home to numerous bird species, deer, and other wildlife
13. Blue Mounds State Park
A unique park featuring large hills, hiking trails, and scenic views.
- Scenic Views: Offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape from its high points
- Hiking Trails: Provides several hiking trails with varying difficulty levels
- Geological Formations: Features unique geological formations, including the famous Blue Mounds
14. Capital Springs Recreation Area
A popular recreational area featuring hiking trails, picnic areas, and scenic views.
- Scenic Views: Offers beautiful views of the surrounding landscape, including the Capitol
- Hiking Trails: Provides several hiking trails with varying difficulty levels
- Recreational Activities: Offers opportunities for picnicking, fishing, and birdwatching
15. Treaty Oak County Park
A beautiful park featuring a scenic lake, hiking trails, and opportunities for wildlife observation.
- Scenic Lake Views: Offers breathtaking views of Lake Waubesa
- Hiking Trails: Provides several hiking trails with varying difficulty levels
- Wildlife Observation: Home to numerous bird species, deer, and other wildlife