The best walks and hikes around Appleton
4.5
(2)
309
hikers
17
hikes
Hiking around Appleton explores the landscape of the Fox River Valley, characterized by riverfront paths, dense woodlands, and rolling hills. The region features the Fox River as a central element, offering scenic trails along its banks. Diverse natural areas like the Bubolz Nature Preserve and Bruce B. Purdy Nature Preserve showcase wetlands, woodlands, and restored prairies. The trail network offers accessible options for various ability levels, with many routes being relatively flat.
Best hiking trails around Appleton
- The most popular hiking route is Newberry Trail and North Island Trail Loop, a 3.4 miles (5.4 km) trail that takes 1 hour 25 minutes to complete. This route features moderate elevation changes and varied terrain.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Heckrodt Trail, an easy 1.9 miles (3.1 km) path. This route offers a flat path through a nature preserve.
- Local hikers also love the Old Stone Bridge Trail, a 2.1 miles (3.4 km) trail leading through riverfront parkland, often completed in about 51 minutes.
- Hiking around Appleton is defined by riverfront trails, woodland routes, and restored prairies. The trail network offers accessible options for different ability levels.
- The routes in Appleton are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 2 reviews. More than 250 hikers have used komoot to explore Appleton's varied terrain.
Last updated: May 28, 2026
7
hikers
5.43km
01:25
50m
30m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
2
hikers
1.74km
00:27
0m
20m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Sign up for free
6.71km
01:41
0m
20m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
9
hikers
4.14km
01:04
20m
20m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
9
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Popular around Appleton
Tips from the Community
This swing bridge is the last large through-truss bridge on the Fox River. It was constructed in 1929 on concrete and stone and is still in use today.
0
0
Telulah Park spans 27 acres and boasts a large pavilion, restrooms, drinking fountains, a soccer field, tennis courts, basketball courts, skateboard and roller blade courts, ADA playground equipment, a ball diamond, 18-hole disc golf, and cross-country skiing in the winter. The park is open to the public every day from 5 a.m. to 11 p.m.
0
0
Appleton has three locks on the Lower Fox River, simply named Appleton Lock 1, Appleton Lock 2, and Appleton Lock 3. Appleton Lock 1 is visible here west of Oneida Street at the river's 31.7 mile marker, Lock 2 at the 31.5 mile marker, and Lock 3 at the 31.3 mile marker.
0
0
Ballard Pond is a small reservoir just off the side of the Apple Creek Trail section of the Fox Cities Paper Trail. The pond is home to lots of geese and is technically three separate pools of water.
0
0
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there many hiking trails to choose from around Appleton?
Yes, there are over 20 hiking routes to explore in the Appleton area. The majority of these are rated as easy, making the region very accessible, with a couple of moderate options for those seeking a bit more of a challenge.
What are some popular places for hiking in the Appleton area?
Locals and visitors enjoy a variety of natural spaces for hiking. Some of the most highly regarded include:
- High Cliff State Park: A favorite for its scenic limestone cliffs on the shore of Lake Winnebago and an observation tower with panoramic views.
- Heckrodt Wetland Reserve: Known for its unique ecosystem and extensive network of boardwalks that take you through the wetlands.
- Bubolz Nature Preserve: Offers a substantial trail system through diverse habitats like forests and prairies, making it great for wildlife spotting.
Are there any dog-friendly hiking trails near Appleton?
Yes, many parks and trails in the area are welcoming to dogs. High Cliff State Park is a particularly popular choice for dog owners, offering numerous trails to explore with your canine companion. Always remember to keep your dog on a leash and follow local park regulations.
Can I find any easy, family-friendly hikes in Appleton?
Absolutely. The Appleton area is great for family outings. Heckrodt Wetland Reserve is an excellent option, featuring easy trails, fascinating boardwalks, and a playground. Another gentle walk is the Bartz Pond loop from Town of Harrison, which is a short and flat route perfect for all ages.
Are there any hikes with good views or scenery?
For some of the best views in the region, head to High Cliff State Park. The trails along the Niagara Escarpment offer stunning vistas over Lake Winnebago, especially from the 40-foot observation tower. For serene river scenery, the trails at 1000 Islands Environmental Center in Kaukauna are a great choice.
What do other hikers enjoy about the trails in Appleton?
The trails around Appleton are highly rated by the komoot community. Hikers often praise the variety of scenery, from the riverfront paths along the Fox River to the quiet woodlands and lakeside trails. The well-maintained and accessible nature of most routes is also frequently mentioned.
Are there any circular or loop hikes available?
Yes, many of the best trails in the area are loops, allowing you to start and end in the same place without retracing your steps. The Hiking loop from Appleton is a pleasant walk that offers a varied experience through local green spaces.
Can I go hiking in Appleton during the winter?
Yes, hiking is a year-round activity in Appleton. Many trails, such as those at Bubolz Nature Preserve, are maintained or accessible during the winter for hiking, snowshoeing, or cross-country skiing. Just be sure to wear appropriate footwear for potentially icy or snowy conditions.
Are there any trails that feature boardwalks?
For a unique hiking experience on boardwalks, you should visit Heckrodt Wetland Reserve in Menasha. It features nearly 4,000 feet of elevated boardwalks that allow you to explore the wetland habitat and its diverse ecosystem up close.
Where can I find a hike along Lake Winnebago?
High Cliff State Park offers extensive trails directly on the shores of Lake Winnebago. For a different lakeside experience, the Kimberly Point loop from Neenah provides a lovely, easy walk through parkland right on the water's edge.
Are there any paved trails suitable for strollers or wheelchairs?
Yes, some trails in the area are paved. The Casaloma Conservancy features a paved path that winds through green space and forest. The Apple Creek Trail is another paved option that is popular for walking and biking.
Most popular attractions around Appleton
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Browse the best Hikes in other regions.
