Part of what we love most about Wisconsin is the abundance of natural beauty throughout the state and the outdoor activities that come with it – boating, fishing and hiking, to name a few. One of the best ways to use your vehicle is to take advantage of all the outdoor activities the Mount Horeb area has to offer. Wondering where to start? We can help. Here’s a list of our favorite hiking trails in the area.
Ice Age Trail
Just over 10 miles outside of Mount Horeb is access to the beautiful and fascinating Ice Age Trail (IAT). One of only 11 National Scenic Trails in the country, the IAT is a 1,000-mile trail that meanders across the state along a path carved by the retreat of glaciers thousands of years ago.
The trail is great for a run, a day hike, or even longer excursions. (Will you be a thousand-miler?) Camping is available along the way, or stop at one of the trail communities and take in some local culture along with a roof and a bed. Unlimited access to mature forests, prairies, lakes and rivers makes the IAT a top-notch hiking destination.
Governor Dodge State Park
A little farther out, but worth the drive, is the 5,000-acre Governor Dodge State Park. It has 40 miles of trails winding through both steep and flat terrain, two lakes, and a gorgeous waterfall. Campsites are available for large groups, backpackers, and even horseback riders.
Military Ridge State Trail
Along the southern edge of Governor Dodge State Park is part of the 40-mile Military Ridge State Trail, a former rail line trail that also follows an 1855 military route. The trail connects Dodgeville to Fitchburg, passing by Blue Mounds State Park and offering spectacular views of the area’s hills and valleys, woodlands, wetlands, and prairies.
Blue Mound State Park
A more local gem is the 1,153-acre Blue Mound State Park. Situated atop the highest hill in the region, it offers more than 20 miles of hiking trails, scenic viewpoints and campgrounds. The trails offer various distances and terrains, making it a great destination for both beginning and novice hikers.
Donald County Park
Right here in Mount Horeb is the lovely Donald County Park, encompassing 781.5-acres of woodland, native prairie, a stream, pond and pine grove. It offers 8.2 miles of multi-use trails, 3.8 miles of which are for hikers only. Part of the park’s beauty is the Eastern Bluebird population, which makes its nests, February through September, in bluebird houses dotted throughout the park.
Before you go, remember to plan ahead. State parks may require admission stickers or camping reservations, and unexpected conditions, such as the weather, may affect trail access. Most importantly, be safe. Whether you’re driving out to your favorite hiking trails, or keeping your walking in town, Symdon Motors can get you there reliably. Visit Symdon Motors today to find your next adventure-seeking vehicle.
Image courtesy of Tripadvisor.com
