The best family-friendly hikes and walks in Winnebago County

Easy 3.4-mile loop along the Fox River in Appleton, offering scenic views of locks, historic sites, and Lawrence University.

The Wiouwash State Trail offers a unique journey through northeastern Wisconsin, blending natural beauty with historical significance. You'll hike on a mostly flat, crushed stone path, winding through diverse landscapes from dense woodlands and open fields to expansive prairie remnants. Keep an eye out for abundant wildlife, especially around the Rat River Wildlife Area, and enjoy scenic viewpoints of Lake Butte des Morts, including a historic railroad trestle.

Planning your visit requires noting that the Wiouwash State Trail is split into two main, disconnected segments. The southern part stretches 22 miles from Hortonville to Oshkosh, while the northern segment covers 19 miles between Birnamwood and Split Rock. Access points with parking are available along both sections, and amenities like picnic tables are scattered throughout. This trail is suitable for year-round use, but check local conditions for winter hiking.

This 23.5-mile (37.7 km) route, with a minimal 244 feet (74 metres) of elevation gain, is rated difficult due to its length, taking about 9 hours and 32 minutes to complete. Its rail-trail origins ensure an easy grade, making it accessible for family friendly hiking. A notable feature is the Tribal Heritage Crossing over Lake Butte des Morts, offering insights into Native American history, and the trail connects to other regional paths like the Mountain-Bay State Trail.

The Terrell's Island Trail offers a wonderfully accessible and scenic hike, taking you out onto Lake Butte des Morts on a unique breakwall structure. This easy 3.8-mile (6.0 km) out-and-back route features wide, flat gravel paths, perfect for a relaxing stroll. You'll enjoy continuous water views and the chance to spot abundant wildlife like bald eagles and pelicans, making it a prime spot for nature observation over its roughly 1 hour and 30 minutes duration.

Planning your visit is straightforward, with ample parking available at the trailhead. While the trail is easy with only 4 feet (1 metres) of elevation gain, remember that sections extending into the lake are exposed to wind. It's best to visit during pleasant weather, but always be prepared for potential ticks and bugs, especially in warmer months, and bring comfortable shoes for the gravel terrain.

What truly sets this trail apart are its historical breakwalls, originally constructed to restore fish and wildlife habitats and protect wetland shorelines. These structures create a sense of isolation as you venture out onto the lake, offering a peaceful escape. The surrounding marsh, reeds, and lagoons provide a rich habitat, making it a fantastic destination for wildlife viewing and a family-friendly outdoor experience.

The Friendship State Trail loop from Menasha offers an easy 3.8-mile (6.1 km) hike with a gentle 35 feet (11 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking about 1 hour and 32 minutes. You'll experience a delightful mix of paved paths, crushed stone, and short on-road sections, winding through woodlands, farmlands, and park areas. The standout feature is the 1,600-foot-long Friendship Trestle, which provides sweeping views across Little Lake Butte des Morts, making for a very scenic and accessible outing.

This trail is ideal for a relaxed walk and connects the communities of Menasha, Neenah, and Fox Crossing. You can easily access it from various points, and amenities like those found at Jefferson Park, including picnic areas and a public pool, are conveniently located along the route. It's a great option for a leisurely day out, suitable for most fitness levels.

Beyond its scenic beauty, the trail boasts the Friendship Trestle, Wisconsin's longest pedestrian bridge, offering a unique perspective of the lake and its surroundings. You'll also find a fascinating lift bridge over the Menasha Lock, complete with an interpretive marker detailing the history of the Fox River canal system. The trail also links to other regional paths and the Heckrodt Wetland Reserve, adding to its appeal as a local gem.