The best walks and hikes around Wauwatosa
4.2
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212
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56
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Hiking around Wauwatosa explores a network of urban parkways, riverside corridors, and preserved woodlands. The terrain is generally flat with gentle inclines, following paved paths and natural surface trails along the Menomonee River. Key areas include the extensive County Grounds Park, which features rolling hills and old-growth forests. Diverse habitats support a variety of wildlife, including birds and butterflies.
Best hiking trails in Wauwatosa
- The most popular hiking route is County Grounds Park Loop, a 3.4 miles (5.5 km) trail that takes about 1 hour 26 minutes to complete. This easy walk explores diverse terrain, old-growth woods, and monarch habitats.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Purple Trail — Havenwoods State Forest, an easy 2.6 miles (4.2 km) path. The route follows a loop through the state forest, a natural area known for bird and wildlife viewing.
- Local hikers also love the North Point Light Station – North Point Water Tower loop from Historic Financial District, an 8.3 miles (13.4 km) trail leading through parkland near Lake Michigan, often completed in about 3 hours 30 minutes.
- Hiking around Wauwatosa is defined by paved parkway trails, riverside paths, and preserved woodlands. The trail network provides accessible options for various fitness levels, from short nature walks to longer routes connecting multiple parks.
- The routes in Wauwatosa are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.2 stars from over 10 reviews. More than 150 hikers have used komoot to explore Wauwatosa's varied terrain.
Last updated: May 12, 2026
6
hikers
5.53km
01:27
40m
30m
Enjoy an easy 3.4-mile hike through diverse terrain, old-growth woods, and monarch habitats in Wauwatosa's County Grounds Park.
6
hikers
3.26km
00:50
10m
10m
The Elm Grove Village Park Loop offers an easy hike around two tranquil ponds, perfect for a relaxing outing. You'll follow a paved path through lush greenery, making it a pleasant experience for all skill levels. This route covers 2.0 miles (3.3 km) with a gentle elevation gain of just 41 feet (12 metres), typically taking about 50 minutes to complete.
Planning your visit to Elm Grove Village Park is straightforward, as the park provides ample amenities. You will find convenient parking available, and the trail is easily accessible as part of a larger community pathway system. The park also features picnic areas and a playground, making it a great spot for families to spend time outdoors.
Beyond the scenic ponds, the park is a haven for local wildlife, especially birds; over 95 species have been identified here. Keep an eye out for various waterfowl, wildflowers, and butterflies as you explore. The presence of a beer garden adds a unique touch, offering a place to relax after your hike.
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3
hikers
8.28km
02:06
10m
20m
Hike the Menomonee River Parkway Loop, a 5.1-mile moderate route along the tranquil river with diverse flora and footbridges.
40.8km
10:31
180m
210m
Hike the 25.4-mile Hank Aaron State Trail in Milwaukee, a difficult route with 594 feet of elevation gain, blending urban and natural scener
24.7km
06:16
60m
50m
Hike the 15.4-mile New Berlin Trail, a difficult, paved route through forests and marshes, with 182 feet of elevation gain.
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Popular around Wauwatosa
Tips from the Community
The Hank Aaron State Trail runs alongside the Menomonee River, and at this point, you can access a viewpoint with nice views of the river and the small greenbelt surrounding it.
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This small pond is located in Three Bridges Park. It’s an easy short detour while cycling the Hank Aaron State Trail, offering a nice spot to take a break by the water.
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Sanctuary Woods, nestled within the Wisconsin Medical College campus, holds the remnants of Milwaukee's first mental hospital. As you cycle through, you'll encounter aged sidewalks and paths that wind through deteriorating pavilions and scenic vistas. During the mid-20th century, this area housed about 6,000 individuals with mental illnesses. Built in the late 19th century, the now-abandoned facilities provide a poignant look into the area's history, offering a quiet, reflective atmosphere amidst the greenery.
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As you cycle by Highland Memorial Park on the New Berlin Recreation Trail, you'll notice a peaceful and serene environment. This section of the trail offers a refreshing change with well-maintained grass and lush green trees, providing a picturesque backdrop to your ride. The tranquil atmosphere makes it a perfect spot to slow down and enjoy the scenery.
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A historic wooded forest home to the ancient Savannah Oak, Sanctuary Woods is the ideal spot for both adventure and serenity.
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Covering one of the largest open space areas in the region, this site has 100 acres of historic forests and rolling prairies. It has an extensive trail network, providing plenty of opportunities for birding enthusiasts in the area.
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This area, better known as the "Domes," is a living museum filled with plants from around the world, each housed in environments that mimic their native climates. Even if you choose not to enter the domes themselves, it's worth a stop to admire the architecture.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are dogs allowed on the hiking trails in Wauwatosa?
Yes, many trails in the Wauwatosa area are dog-friendly, provided your dog is on a leash. County Grounds Park is a particularly popular spot for dog walkers, offering a network of trails through open fields and wooded areas. The paved parkways, like the Menomonee River Parkway, are also great options for a walk with your canine companion.
What are some good, easy hikes for families with children?
For a family-friendly outing, the Lake Evinrude loop from Cannon Park is an excellent choice. It's a relatively short and flat walk that's manageable for little legs. Another great option is the Forest Exploration Center, which features a one-mile accessible, self-guided nature trail through a mature forest, making it both educational and fun for all ages.
Are there any paved trails suitable for strollers or wheelchairs?
Absolutely. The Oak Leaf Trail, which runs through Wauwatosa along the Menomonee River Parkway, is a paved multi-use path perfect for strollers and wheelchairs. It provides a smooth surface for several miles, connecting various parks and offering scenic river views without the difficulty of natural surface trails.
Where can I find the best fall colors?
The Menomonee River Parkway and its connected parks, like Hoyt Park and Jacobus Park, are spectacular in the autumn. The dense hardwood forests along the river erupt in vibrant shades of red, orange, and yellow. For a more concentrated woodland experience, the trails within Sanctuary Woods offer an immersive walk through an old-growth forest, which is especially beautiful during the fall season.
What are the best parks for hiking in Wauwatosa?
Wauwatosa's hiking is centered around its excellent park system. County Grounds Park is a local favorite, known for its rolling hills, diverse habitats, and the historic Sanctuary Woods. For a more linear adventure, the Menomonee River Parkway connects several parks with miles of riverside trails. For a unique experience, Hartung Park, a former quarry, offers interesting terrain and a stone labyrinth.
Are there opportunities for wildlife and bird watching?
Yes, the area is rich in wildlife. Havenwoods State Forest is a well-regarded urban nature preserve popular for birding and spotting local animals. The Purple Trail — Havenwoods State Forest loop is a great way to explore it. Additionally, the Monarch Trail in County Grounds Park is a known roosting spot for migrating monarch butterflies, offering a unique seasonal spectacle.
How many hiking trails are there around Wauwatosa?
You'll find over 40 curated hiking routes around Wauwatosa on komoot. The selection ranges from short, easy loops under an hour to more moderate park connectors, ensuring there's a trail for every fitness level and schedule.
What do other hikers say about the trails in Wauwatosa?
The trails around Wauwatosa are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of over 4 stars. Hikers often praise the well-maintained parkway system, the beauty of the old-growth trees in Sanctuary Woods, and the peaceful atmosphere of the riverside paths.
What should I wear for hiking in the Wauwatosa area?
For most trails, comfortable walking shoes or light hiking shoes are sufficient. The terrain is mostly flat with some gentle hills. It's always wise to dress in layers, as weather in Wisconsin can change. Waterproof footwear is a good idea for the natural surface trails after rain, as some riverside paths can get muddy.
Are there any longer-distance hiking options?
For a longer hike, consider the North Point Light Station – North Point Water Tower loop from Historic Financial District. This 8.3-mile (13.4 km) route takes you through parkland closer to Lake Michigan. You can also create your own long-distance route by combining segments of the Menomonee River Parkway and the Oak Leaf Trail, which extends for over 100 miles throughout Milwaukee County.
How difficult are the hiking trails?
The vast majority of trails in Wauwatosa are rated as easy. They typically follow paved parkways or well-trodden natural paths with minimal elevation change. While there are a few moderate routes that are longer or have some rolling hills, you won't find any difficult or mountainous climbs here, making it a very accessible hiking destination.
What is the terrain like on the trails?
The terrain is quite varied. You'll find wide, paved paths along the Oak Leaf Trail and Menomonee River Parkway, which are flat and smooth. In areas like County Grounds Park and Sanctuary Woods, you'll encounter natural surface trails that wind through forests and over rolling hills. Some riverside trails can be narrow and uneven.
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