Thousands of years ago, glaciers left a big mark on the landscape that would one day become Wisconsin. You can explore this landscape, step by step on a scenic hiking path that traces the edge of the last glacier to sculpt the land in this area. The Pike Lake Trail is located in the heart of the Pike Lake Unit of the Kettle Moraine State Forest, a gorgeous state natural area that showcases the state’s glacial landscape. Here’s why the Pike Lake Trail is perfect for your next hiking adventure.
The Pike Lake Trail is located in the Kettle Moraine State Forest, a 55,000-acre state forest that’s spread across 100 miles. The rugged terrain of the state forest has distinctive glacial features and miles of scenic hiking trails.
Alltrails / Kyle Verhoeven
You’ll find the Pike Lake Trail in the Pike Lake Forest Unit, a section of the state forest that’s near Slinger. The forest unit is named for the 522-acre Pike Lake, a lake that’s actually a glacial feature called a kettle. Kettles are formed when part of a glacier melts, forming a hole that becomes a pond or lake.
Alltrails / Sandy Stone
The trail is a three-mile loop that includes some hilly terrain. It will take you near an overlook with a panoramic vista of the lake. The trail is well-marked and it will also lead you to an observation tower.
Alltrails / Michelle Koscielniak
The trail will lead you near Pike Lake, a charming lake that has a pleasant beach. You may spot some anglers by the lake – the lake is filled with panfish, Largemouth Bass, Smallmouth Bass, Northern Pike and Walleye.
Alltrails /Tanner Naegel
Leashed dogs are allowed on the trail and if your pooch likes water you can hike down to a dog beach.
Alltrails / Kyle Verhoeven
You can also head to an expansive beach for people and a pleasant picnic area that’s bustling on warm days. It’s the perfect place to relax after your hike.
Alltrails / Rachel Vander Wiese
The Pike Lake Unit of the Kettle Moraine State Forest is open daily, from 6 a.m. – 11 p.m. A vehicle admission sticker is required to enter the park. Because the trail is very popular, you make want to start your hike early to beat the crowds. Learn more about the park here. Once you’ve hiked to Pike Lake, here’s an amazing Wisconsin sea cave hike you should experience.
Alltrails / Kyle Verhoeven
Alltrails / Sandy Stone
Alltrails / Michelle Koscielniak
Alltrails /Tanner Naegel
Alltrails / Rachel Vander Wiese
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Address: Kettle Moraine State Forest - Pike Lake Unit, 3544 Kettle Moraine Rd, Hartford, WI 53027, USA
