Parnell Observation Tower

The Parnell Observation Tower loop offers a delightful journey through Wisconsin's Kettle Moraine State Forest. You'll wander through diverse woodlands of maple, oak, and birch, eventually reaching the impressive 60-foot Parnell Observation Tower. This easy 3.5-mile (5.7 km) hike, with 218 feet (66 metres) of elevation gain, takes about 1 hour and 31 minutes. From the tower, you're treated to expansive panoramic views of glacial landscapes and surrounding farmland.

Accessing the Parnell Observation Tower loop requires a state park sticker, and you'll find parking conveniently located at the trailhead on County Highway U. If you're bringing a furry friend, dogs are welcome on the trails if leashed, but remember they can't join you up the observation tower. Consider visiting in the autumn for spectacular fall foliage, though the views from the tower are rewarding year-round.

Beyond the tower, the area is rich in glacial history, with segments of the trail overlapping the significant Ice Age National Trail. Keep an eye out for unique glacial landforms like moulin kames, which are cone-shaped hills formed by ancient meltwater. The tower itself sits at the highest point in Kettle Moraine State Forest, offering views that can extend for 25 miles on a clear day.

The Parnell Observation Tower loop from Town of Greenbush offers a dynamic hiking experience through the unique glacial landscape of the Kettle Moraine State Forest. You'll navigate continuously rolling wooded hills, with the path often a singletrack winding through diverse forest types, including pine and hardwood groves. The highlight is undoubtedly the 60-foot Parnell Observation Tower, which provides expansive 360-degree panoramic views of the surrounding terrain, a truly rewarding vista after the moderate 7.8-mile (12.6 km) journey.

Planning your visit to this trail is straightforward, with amenities like picnic tables and vault toilets available near the trailhead. The route involves 383 feet (117 metres) of elevation gain over its 3 hours and 19 minutes duration, featuring frequent ascents and descents, including steep sections and stairs near the tower. This makes it a moderate hike that requires good fitness, so be prepared for a consistent workout.

This area is a geological marvel, showcasing impressive glacial features such as kames, eskers, and kettles, particularly the notable Moulin Kames near the tower. The trail also overlaps with a segment of the Ice Age National Scenic Trail, highlighting Wisconsin's rich glacial history. Autumn is a particularly popular time to hike due to the vibrant fall colors, enhancing the already scenic views from the tower.