Newsroom_News Release_2023-05-31 Celebrate National Trails Day June 3

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: 2023-05-31

Contact: DNR Office of Communications
DNRPress@wisconsin.gov

Celebrate National Trails Day June 3

Bearskin Trail on a sunny day The Bearskin State Trail is one of Wisconsin's many scenic trails converted from old rail lines. Photo credit: Travel Wisconsin

MADISON, Wis. – The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) invites the public to celebrate National Trails Day on Saturday, June 3. Whether by foot, bike, ATV or horse, Wisconsin has thousands of miles of trails to enjoy.

Wisconsin is home to 50 state parks, 15 state forests and 44 state trails, with trails for all abilities and activities. Several properties offer dedicated trails for mountain biking, ATVs or horseback riding, and with over 24,000 acres of state trails, there are plenty of ways and places to explore.

There are several ways to celebrate trails on June 3, including:

  • Join the DNR and Dane County Parks for a National Trails Day Celebration from 1 – 4 p.m. at the Capital City State Trail/ Lower Yahara Trail Trailhead.
  • Check out the Ice Age Trail Alliance’s schedule of events. From a backpack shakedown to trail races to hikes, there are events for everyone on Ice Age Trail segments around the state.
  • Learn about trail building and maintenance at Wildcat Mountain State Park.
  • Take a guided hike at Point Beach State Forest.

A full list of events is available on the DNR's events calendar.

For people looking to get more involved with trails, the DNR offers volunteer opportunities at most state parks, forests and trails for trail maintenance and stewardship. Current opportunities are posted on the DNR’s website.

Additionally, Wisconsin State Park Friends Groups are always looking for members interested in volunteering their time, services and support to enhance Wisconsin’s state parks, forests, trails and recreation areas. Find or join a group by visiting the DNR's Friends Groups webpage.

Free Fun Weekend June 3-4

National Trails Day falls during the DNR's 11th annual Free Fun Weekend. State park admission fees, fishing licenses and trail passes are waived for all Wisconsin residents and non-residents.

With 50 state parks, 15 state forests, 44 state trails, 84,000 miles of rivers and streams and roughly 15,000 lakes, the DNR invites Wisconsinites to discover a new favorite park, trail, forest or recreation area, or to try a new activity during Free Fun Weekend. This is the perfect time to get outdoors and find your adventure in Wisconsin.

Learn more about Free Fun Weekend in this previous news release.

 

Need an expert?