The best walks and hikes in Potawatomi State Park

Yes, pets are welcome throughout Potawatomi State Park, including on the hiking trails. However, they must be kept on a leash no longer than 8 feet (2.4 m) at all times and are not permitted in buildings or picnic areas.

During winter, the trails are open for snowshoeing and winter hiking. The park's rolling terrain and wooded paths become a snowy landscape. Cross-country ski trails are also available but are designated for skiing only. Always check local conditions before you go, as trails can be icy.

The park offers several easier trails suitable for families. The Ancient Shores Trail is a short, half-mile interpretive walk that is great for all ages. For a slightly longer but still gentle option, the Hiking loop from Valmy is a 2.8-mile (4.5 km) trail through the forest that is mostly flat.

Yes, Potawatomi State Park is home to the eastern trailhead of the 1,000-mile Ice Age National Scenic Trail. You can hike a 2.8-mile segment of this famous trail within the park, which follows the path of the last continental glacier.

The terrain is quite varied. You'll find trails that run along the Green Bay shoreline, offering views from atop limestone cliffs. Other paths wind through dense hardwood forests with sugar maple and beech trees. The elevation changes are generally gentle to moderate, making it accessible for most fitness levels.

Most of the trails in the park can be combined to form loops. A great example of a longer loop is the Potawatomi State Park loop from Sturgeon Bay, which covers 7.3 miles (11.8 km) and gives a comprehensive tour of the park's diverse landscapes.

The main landmark is the recently reopened 75-foot observation tower, which offers panoramic views of Sturgeon Bay and Green Bay. The Tower Trail leads to this high point. You'll also see dramatic limestone cliffs along the shoreline and the start of the historic Ice Age Trail.

The Hemlock Trail is a 2.6-mile route that partly follows the scenic shoreline of Sturgeon Bay before heading into the park's interior. It provides beautiful water views and access to the limestone bluffs.

There are over 10 marked hiking trails and routes to explore within the park. These range from short interpretive walks to more moderate loops, with the majority of trails being easy or moderate in difficulty.

The park is highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.3 stars. Hikers often praise the well-maintained trails, the beautiful shoreline views, and the peaceful woodland scenery.

There are several parking areas located throughout the park, providing convenient access to various trailheads. Key parking lots are situated near the main park entrance, the campground, and near the boat launch. A Wisconsin State Park admission sticker is required for all vehicles.

The park is committed to accessibility. While most hiking trails have natural surfaces, there is an accessible cabin, accessible campsites, a fishing pier, and a boat launch with an accessible boarding pier available for visitors.