This Wisconsin City Is An Underrated Gem For Nature Lovers
Known as a lively college and capitol town, Madison, Wisconsin has a few surprises up its sleeve. The city is a hub for arts and culture with a historic downtown overlooked by the towering dome of the Wisconsin State Capitol. However, it’s also a year-round natural paradise where you can kayak, hike, bike, boat, and much more.
Located west of Milwaukee, Madison is in an unusual position. Sandwiched between Lake Mendota and Lake Monona, the city boasts picturesque peninsulas, sandy beaches, breathtaking shoreline views, lush parks, and tranquil gardens. From snowshoeing across a frozen lake in winter to wandering spring meadows in full bloom; exploring dazzling foliage in fall to hitting the beach in summer, Madison is a must-see destination in every season.
Explore the Best Outdoor Adventures in Madison
Parks and Beaches
Madison has over 260 parks and beaches to choose from, so you’ll always be able to find a quiet spot, away from the crowds, even in the height of summer. To enjoy the serene waters of Lake Monona, head to B.B. Clarke Beach or Brittingham Beach. To relax by Lake Mendota, check out Spring Harbor Beach or Warner Beach. Madison’s public beaches are open from June to September so visitors can soak up the sun and cool off on hot Wisconsin days.
Named one of the top 10 most inspiring gardens in North America by Horticulture Magazine, Olbrich Botanical Gardens is a 16-acre oasis in the heart of the city. The park encompasses 14 different outdoor gardens including the Rose Garden, the Herb Garden, the Meadow Garden, and Serenity Garden. Pick up a map from the visitor’s center and wander the walkways or hop aboard the free tram for a guided tour. However you explore the gardens, don’t miss the Bolz Conservatory, a tropical greenhouse with a waterfall, birds, and fish.
Get incredible views of downtown and the water from Olin Park on the shores of Lake Monona. This expansive shoreline green space includes a historic pavilion, walking paths, a playground, and sports fields. Adjacent to the park is the Turville Point Conservation Park which is popular with hikers in summer and cross-country skiers in winter.
Hiking and Biking
Known as ‘the bike capital of the midwest’, Madison has more bikes than cars. And it’s easy to see why. The city has over 200 miles of hiking and biking trails to discover, offering incredible views and varied terrain. One of the best, and most accessible, routes is the Lake Monona Loop, a two-hour, 13-mile ride that passes by Olbrich Botanical Gardens and has stunning views of the city skyline over the water.
Mountain bikers should check out Quarry Ridge Park, located 5 miles away from downtown Madison. Here you’ll find 3 miles of trails for mountain bikers of all abilities from beginner to expert.
Hikers will love the University of Wisconsin Arboretum where there are more than 17 miles of trails through prairies, savannas, woodlands, and wetlands. The University offers free nature walks led by expert guides for those who want to learn more about the local ecology. These include weekly Sunday walks, night hikes, and scenic strolls to the most picturesque spots. The Arboretum is especially beautiful in fall as the forest canopy changes color and in spring when the wildflowers bloom.
The University also includes the Lakeshore Nature Preserve which you can explore via the Lakeshore Path. The trail has a long history, following paths made by the original Native Indians who established routes around the lake thousands of years ago. The path follows the shoreline to Picnic Point, a beautiful peninsula that’s ideal for taking a rest, enjoying the view, and refueling before heading back.
Water-based Fun
Boats on Lake Monona with Downtown Madison, Wisconsin in the background.
Situated between two stunning lakes, it’s no wonder that Madison is one of the best destinations for water sports enthusiasts. Get out on the water with Capitol Boat Club or Marshall Boats, both of which offer boat rentals and can give you information on the best boat launches around the city. If you’d rather let someone else captain the ship, take a cruise with Betty Lou Cruises which offers a tour of the lakes from April to October.
Olbrich Park Boat Rentals offers rentals of kayaks, stand up paddleboards, and canoes so you can take your time gently paddling around the lake. If you’re visiting with the kids, they’ll enjoy the slides and play areas at Goodman’s Pool.
The lakes around Madison are well stocked with perch, crappie, bluegill, walleye, bass and northern pike. Book a full day or half day trip with Madison Fly Fishing to get a crash course on angling and find the best places to cast your rod.
Wisconsin Wildlife
A Giraffe in fall Henry Vilas Zoo with maple background.
One of the most popular attractions in Madison, the Henry Vilas Zoo is where you’ll find its wilder residents. Home to over 600 animals, and free to the public, the zoo is open year-round. As well as viewing fascinating creatures including lions, polar bears, and orangutans, you can also take a guided tour to learn about the animals from a zookeeper or book a behind the scenes experience to get the insider scoop on what it’s like to care for unique and precious species.
Nature in the Heart of the City
Madison is a busy city, but it’s managed to create a tranquil and relaxed feel by integrating its natural attributes with its lively urban sprawl. The city has been designated a Platinum Level Bicycle Friendly Community by the League of American Bicyclists in recognition of its network of paths around the city.
The city’s University has played a huge role in preserving its beautiful natural spaces. The Lakeshore Nature Preserve acts as a ‘living laboratory’ for the University which promotes and studies its natural history, leading outreach initiatives to educate the public on its diverse flora and fauna.
Traveler Tips for Visiting Madison
Sunset on Lake Mendota in Madison, Wisconsin with people in foreground.
Madison is a welcoming city that’s very accessible for visitors but there are a few things you should know before you go. When hiking the trails in spring and summer, watch out for poison ivy and pack some bug spray to avoid mosquito bites.
If you’re visiting the beach in Madison, be aware that not all of them have lifeguards. It’s also a good idea to check the beach conditions before heading out. The city monitors water quality from Memorial Day to Labor Day and will close for swimming if it finds algae or other contaminants.
Going fishing? Anglers are free to fish the lakes around Madison, but must get a permit from the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources beforehand.
What Makes Madison Unique
Aerial View of the Downtown Skyline of Madison, Wisconsin
Madison has a very unusual claim to fame. The city lies on a strip of land between two lakes, known as an isthmus. There are only two US cities built on an isthmus, the other being Seattle, Washington.
Aside from Monona and Mendota are five lakes within the city limits. The other three are Wingra, Waubesa and Kegonsa. Combined, these bodies of water give the city 15,000 acres of lakes and 12 public beaches.
Discover the Natural Beauty of Wisconsin’s Capital
Capital building in Madison, Wisconsin.
Whether you’re a weekend warrior looking for a short trip that will get you moving outdoors, a family planning a summer vacation, or a solo traveler in need of a rejuvenating break, Madison is a great choice for your next getaway. This charming, eclectic, and dynamic city has just as much to offer nature-lovers as it does city slickers. From its leafy parks to its sun-drenched beaches, Wisconsin’s capital is a world away from your average city vacation thanks to its entrancing natural environment and outdoor amenities.
