Ken Wood Memorial Magnolia Bench

Embark on the Lake Wingra Recreation Loop, a moderate 7.3-mile (11.8 km) hike that offers a diverse journey through Madison's natural landscapes. You will experience a mix of unpaved paths, gravel, and paved sections, with boardwalks guiding you over wetlands. The route features picturesque views of Lake Wingra and takes about 3 hours and 2 minutes to complete, gaining 199 feet (61 metres) in elevation.

For your visit, parking is conveniently available at spots like the Wingra Woods Trailhead. This trail is considered suitable for a wide range of hikers, including those new to the activity and families looking for an accessible outdoor experience. The route also passes through Vilas Park, which provides additional amenities such as a swimming beach and fishing piers.

Beyond the scenic beauty, the trail holds significant cultural importance, featuring ancient Native American effigy mounds. These mounds, some shaped like birds and water spirits, offer a unique glimpse into the region's rich history. Keep an eye out for water lilies on the north shore and the distinctive Skunk Cabbage Bridge as you explore.

Step into a living history lesson on the Curtis Prairie, Noe Woods, and Leopold Pines Loop, an easy 2.8-mile (4.6 km) hike that takes about 1 hour and 12 minutes to complete. You'll experience a fascinating blend of landscapes, from the expansive, sun-drenched tallgrass of Curtis Prairie to the cool, shaded paths of Noe Woods' oak forest. The route culminates in the serene, towering red and white pines of Leopold Pines, offering a diverse natural experience with only 145 feet (44 metres) of elevation gain.

Planning your visit to this University of Wisconsin-Madison Arboretum trail is straightforward, with parking available on-site. While the trail is generally easy, be prepared for potentially uneven or muddy sections, especially after rain or during thaw. The Arboretum's varied ecosystems mean there's always something to see, but the fall colors in the prairie and woodlands are particularly striking.

This loop is a testament to modern restoration ecology, traversing Curtis Prairie, which is recognized as the birthplace of these efforts. It also honors conservationist Aldo Leopold, whose vision shaped the Arboretum's goal of recreating "original Wisconsin" ecosystems. It's a fantastic way to see a wide array of southern Wisconsin's native habitats in a relatively short and accessible outing.