Fall is calling! Enjoy the crisp weather and beautiful colors by exploring these Madison area parks and hikes. Peak fall foliage is typically between late-September through mid-October. Madison parks has a solid start, and here are some of our personal favorites.
The Arboretum has tallgrass prairies, savannas, wetlands and several types of forest. Guide yourself around, or go on an educational tour of the area!
Picnic Point is a nearly mile-long peninsula along the shore of Lake Mendota. There are many walking trails in this park, varying in length and difficulty.
Lake Farm County Park (South Madison) - easy access from anyywhere, a tower to climb, the Lussier Family Center, and trails along the prairie, woods, and lake in all directions. Plus a smooth bike path runs around it
East Madison
Olbrich Botanical Gardens (Madison, east)
Olbrich Botanical Gardens is a 16-acre outdoor botanical garden and a conservatory. This fall, they are hosting an outdoor light show, GLEAM. Check it out on Wed-Sat evenings!
Door Creek Park (East - plenty of birds, ponds, woods and open prairie)
Edna Taylor (connected to Aldo Leopold Nature Center) Lake Farm Park (South/Eastside),
CamRock County Park (Cambridge)
On this 4.9-mile loop trail, you’ll pass over creeks, through dense forests, and over sweeping plains. This is a great park to bike or walk at.
North Madison
Governor's Island - short, but lots of different paths so each timeis different. And great views over the lake.
Token Creek (Deforest - do a loop of multiple distances, and yes, explore the creek)
Cherokee Marsh, (Northside) - wooded trails, prairie boardwalks, and a lookout tower
West Madison
Indian Lake options for hills for a view, woods, or a flatter loop around the lake
Pheasant Branch Conservancy (Middleton) - tons of intersecting loops and paths to add variety each time, plus a playground and easy access to downtown
Elver Park - wooded trails, a huge hill with views and a great playground
Donald County Park (Mt. Horeb) trails, overlooks in a beautiful area with rolling hills
