The best city hikes and walks in Havenwoods State Forest
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Urban hiking trails in Havenwoods State Forest offer a diverse landscape for exploration within Milwaukee's city limits. This 237-acre state forest features woodlands, wetlands, and prairies, providing varied ecosystems for hikers. The terrain is generally flat, making routes accessible for different fitness levels. Notable features include the Lincoln Creek footbridge and several ponds interspersed throughout the property.
Best urban hiking trails in Havenwoods State Forest
- The most popular urban hiking route is Milwaukee River revitalization – Hubbard Park Beer Garden…
Last updated: July 8, 2026
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The Milwaukee River revitalization hiking trails from Whitefish Bay to Hubbard Park Beer Garden offer a refreshing escape, blending paved urban paths with natural, riverside singletrack. You'll wind along the…
1.51km
00:24
20m
10m
This easy 0.9-mile (1.5 km) hiking trail in Milwaukee's Hawthorne Glen offers diverse ecosystems and unique natural features.
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7
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5
hikers
8.04km
02:04
30m
30m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
2
hikers
4.59km
01:11
20m
20m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
While riding along the Milwaukee River, you can enjoy the changes that have improved the area, with several parks and a growing paved trail system. What used to be industrial is now green and inviting, with restored riverbanks, new trails, and plenty of spots to pause by the water.
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The Hoyt Park Footbridge dates back to the 1939 and the New Deal. The CCC built countless projects across the country in order to drive recovery from the Great Depression and this beautiful bridge is part of that legacy.
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The perfect stop for a spot during your ride, Hubbard Park Beer Garden offers a charming riverside setting with a variety of local and imported beers, complemented by a menu featuring German-inspired dishes like brats, hot dogs, and pretzels.
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This river, named after the Menomonee people, translates to "rice eaters," reflecting the once abundant wild rice along its shores. Enjoy a scenic view of the river from the bridge at this point.
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The north Ave pedestrian bridge is a great access point for those looking to tackle the lower eastside and/or riverwest side of the river trail without having to make a lengthy detour to the other side from the roads. If you want to get some longer miles in, you can use the bridge to make a lengthy loop workout instead of an out-and-back.
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The North Avenue Dam Pedestrian Bridge is a cool bridge that crosses over the Milwaukee River. You can look up the river to the north or down the wider channel to the south. The bridge also helps connect the Milwaukee River Revitalization property to Caesar's Park.
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Estabrook Park Lagoon is a small, 1-acre pond inside Estabrook Park that has a tiny isle on its northern end. This area is known for its dense population of diverse native wildlife.
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To the west is this bridge is a public pool that is open during the Covid-19 pandemic.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many urban hiking trails are available in Havenwoods State Forest?
Komoot features 6 urban hiking trails within Havenwoods State Forest. These routes offer a variety of experiences, from shorter, easy walks to slightly longer, moderate excursions through the forest's diverse landscapes.
What makes Havenwoods State Forest a unique place for urban hiking?
Havenwoods State Forest is Wisconsin's only urban state forest, offering a remarkable escape within the city of Milwaukee. It boasts a diverse landscape of woodlands, wetlands, and prairies, providing a rich natural experience right in an urban setting. Its history as a former military base and correctional facility also adds a unique layer to its character.
What kind of terrain can I expect on urban hikes in Havenwoods State Forest?
The trails in Havenwoods State Forest are generally flat, making them accessible for most hikers. You'll traverse through varied ecosystems including tallgrass prairies, hardwood forests, and wetlands, with some routes featuring picturesque ponds and footbridges like the one over Lincoln Creek.
Are there easy urban hiking options for beginners or casual walkers?
Yes, there are several easy urban hiking options perfect for beginners or those looking for a relaxed stroll. For example, the Hawthorne Glen route is an easy 1.5 km loop. Many of the forest's trails are designed to be accessible and enjoyable for all fitness levels.
Are there longer or more challenging urban hikes in the area?
While most trails are relatively flat, some routes offer a longer distance for those seeking a more extended urban hike. The Milwaukee River revitalization – Hubbard Park Beer Garden loop from Shorewood is a moderate 14 km route, providing a good workout while exploring the urban landscape and riverfront.
Are the urban hiking trails in Havenwoods State Forest suitable for families with children?
Absolutely. The generally flat terrain and diverse natural features make Havenwoods State Forest an excellent choice for family-friendly urban hikes. Children can enjoy exploring the woodlands, spotting wildlife, and visiting the Nature Center for educational exhibits. The shorter, easy trails are particularly well-suited for families.
Are there dog-friendly trails in Havenwoods State Forest?
Yes, Havenwoods State Forest is pet-friendly and offers a dedicated 2.5-mile pet trail. This ensures that you and your canine companion can enjoy the urban hiking experience together. Remember to keep dogs on a leash and clean up after them.
What are some notable natural features or landmarks I might see on these urban hikes?
On your urban hikes, you can expect to see diverse natural features such as tallgrass prairies, hardwood forests, and wetlands. Ponds are interspersed throughout the property, and some trails feature the picturesque Lincoln Creek footbridge. The forest's varied ecosystems also provide excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing.
What is the best time of year to go urban hiking in Havenwoods State Forest?
Havenwoods State Forest offers enjoyable urban hiking experiences year-round. Spring brings blooming wildflowers, summer provides lush greenery, and fall showcases vibrant foliage. Even in winter, the flat terrain is ideal for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing, with snowshoes available for loan at the Nature Center.
Are there any loop trails for urban hiking in Havenwoods State Forest?
Yes, many of the trails in Havenwoods State Forest are designed as loops, offering convenient circular routes. For example, the Hoyt Park Footbridge loop from Wauwatosa is an easy 4.6 km circular hike, allowing you to start and end at the same point without retracing your steps.
Where can I find more information about Havenwoods State Forest and its facilities?
For more detailed information about Havenwoods State Forest, including its Nature Center, educational programs, and recreational opportunities, you can visit the official Wisconsin DNR website: dnr.wisconsin.gov/topic/parks/havenwoods. The Nature Center itself is a great resource for visitors.
Most popular routes in Havenwoods State Forest
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