Recreation

Havenwoods State Forest offers a variety of outdoor recreation opportunities in the city of Milwaukee.

Bicycling

The limestone trails and asphalt roads (about 2 miles) are open to bicycles. Please use caution as these trails are shared with hikers.

Hiking

More than 6 miles of trails invite hikers, runners and joggers to explore the property's woods, wetlands and grasslands. With several different trail segments, visitors can choose a hike of varying lengths. The trail map [PDF], marked with the lengths of trail segments, allows you to create a custom-length trail for walking, jogging or running. This map also shows where you can and cannot walk your dog.

Several geocaches and waymarks can be found at Havenwoods State Forest. Complete the "Trek Through Time," a geocaching adventure, and earn a collectible wooden geotoken.

Where permitted, pets are allowed in the forest on a leash 8 feet or shorter. To ensure everyone’s enjoyment, visitors are required to clean up any waste left by their pets. Pets are prohibited in areas shown shaded on the forest map.

Cross-country trail (2.7 miles)

Walk or run the outer trail all the way around the forest to cover about 2.7 miles.

Pet trail (2.5 miles)

There are many trails at Havenwoods that are open to pets. Pets must be on a leash 8 feet or shorter. This trail is one possibility that is about 2.5 miles long. Pets are prohibited in areas shown shaded on the forest map. Contact the forest for more information on pet areas.

People and the Land trail (1.3 miles)

This 1.3-mile trail tells the history of Havenwoods and the efforts to restore the land. Stop by the nature center to pick up a trail brochure. Pets are not permitted on this nature trail.

Trek through Time trail (geocaching trail)

Discover history, spend some time outside and challenge yourself with a good puzzle at Havenwoods. The Trek through Time Trail is a geocaching adventure at the forest. Stop by the nature center to pick up a trail booklet.

Picnic areas

Visitors can picnic anywhere in the forest. There are picnic tables in the Urban Arboretum and next to the parking lot. No fires or grills are allowed. The Wisconsin State Park System has a carry in/carry out policy. Please do not leave garbage and recyclables at the forest.

Winter activities

Cross-country skiers are welcome at the forest. Trails are not groomed. The terrain at Havenwoods is mostly flat, providing a good place for beginners.

Snowshoers are welcome throughout the forest. As a courtesy to skiers, snowshoers are asked to stay off of established ski tracks. Snowshoes can be borrowed when the nature center is open.