Loop the Little Lake Trail
Loop the Little Lake Trail
5.0
(2100)
14,316
hikers
01:36
6.35km
10m
Hiking
The Loop the Little Lake Trail offers a serene and accessible hiking experience around Little Lake Butte des Morts, connecting several Wisconsin communities. You'll follow a primarily paved, multi-use path that winds through mixed hardwoods, occasionally opening up to provide tranquil lakeside vistas. Keep an eye out for local wildlife like white-tailed deer and red foxes, and enjoy the rich understory of ferns and wildflowers, especially vibrant in spring and early summer.
This easy 3.9-mile (6.4 km) route has a minimal 36 feet (11 metres) of elevation gain, making it suitable for all ages and abilities, including those with strollers or pets. It typically takes about 1 hour and 36 minutes to complete. Parking is readily available at the four developed parks along the route, such as Fritse Park and Shepard Park, which also offer amenities like restrooms and picnic areas.
One of the standout Loop the Little Lake Trail points of interest is the converted railroad trestle bridges, particularly the Fox Cities Trestle, which provides unique vantage points over the lake. This trail beautifully blends natural beauty with urban convenience, serving as both a recreational escape and a practical commuting path. It's a fantastic option for a family friendly outing or a peaceful solo stroll.
Last updated: June 9, 2026
Waypoints
Start point
Parking
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6.35 km
End point
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
5.03 km
1.11 km
211 m
Surfaces
3.29 km
2.03 km
953 m
< 100 m
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Elevation
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Weather
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Wednesday 8 July
31°C
21°C
84 %
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Max wind speed: 4.0 km/h
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This route was planned by komoot.
The trail connects the communities of Fox Crossing, Menasha, and Neenah, offering multiple access points. You'll find developed parks along the route, such as Fritse Park, Herb and Dolly Smith Park, and Arrowhead Park, which typically offer parking facilities. These parks also provide amenities like restrooms and picnic areas.
Yes, this trail is considered easy and is very suitable for beginners and families. It's largely paved with virtually no elevation gain (only about 11 meters total), making it accessible for various skill levels, strollers, and even young children.
Yes, the Loop the Little Lake Trail is dog-friendly. Please ensure your dog is kept on a leash and that you clean up after them to maintain a pleasant experience for all users.
The trail can be enjoyed year-round. Spring and early summer offer lush greenery, wildflowers, and active wildlife. Fall provides beautiful foliage. Even in winter, it can be a scenic experience, though conditions may vary with snow-covered paths. For birdwatching, spring and fall migrations are ideal.
Absolutely! A key feature of the trail is its four converted railroad trestle bridges: the Fox Cities Trestle, Slough Trestle, Neenah Trestle, and Menasha Trestle. The Fox Cities Trestle offers expansive views of Little Lake Butte des Morts, while the Slough Trestle is great for spotting blue herons, egrets, and ospreys. You'll also find tranquil views of the lake and surrounding cities throughout.
The trail is predominantly paved, offering a smooth surface suitable for hiking, biking, and running. It combines off-road paths, dedicated bike lanes, and sidewalks, ensuring an easy and accessible experience with minimal elevation changes.
Yes, the route also passes through sections of the Friendship State Trail. Additionally, the entire route is officially designated as the Loop the Little Lake Trail itself, with several segments contributing to its overall length.
Yes, there are several amenities. The trail passes through four developed parks that offer restrooms, picnic areas, and playgrounds. You can also find bike repair stations and covered pavilions at various points along the route.
No, there are no permits or entrance fees required to access and enjoy the Loop the Little Lake Trail. It is freely accessible to the public.
The trail passes through woods where you might spot white-tailed deer, raccoons, and red foxes. The understory is rich in ferns and wildflowers, especially in spring. Along the lake, birdwatchers can observe various waterfowl and migratory birds, particularly near the Slough Trestle and Herb and Dolly Smith Park.
Given that the trail connects the communities of Fox Crossing, Menasha, and Neenah, you'll find various cafes, restaurants, and other establishments within a short distance of different access points. While there aren't specific cafes directly on the trail, amenities are readily available in the nearby urban areas.
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