Hit the Trails

If your bucket list includes walking on the longest trestle bridge in the state of Wisconsin, you've come to the right place. Looking for a limestone cliff that runs all the way from east central WI to Niagara Falls? We've got that too. Here in the Fox Cities, we're home to 100+ miles of trails that wind through the woods, meander along the river, and connect our vibrant communities. Lace up your shoes, hop on your bike, and get ready for an original outdoor experience.

Loop The Lake

Featured Trails:

Loop the Lake

One of the most popular trails in the Fox Cities, Loop the Lake is the perfect route for folks of all ages and abilities. This 3.5-mile loop will take you on a waterfront journey over and around Little Lake Butte des Morts while also connecting you to three of our communities: Fox Crossing, Menasha, and Neenah. The trail is fully paved and allows for walking, jogging, biking, and rollerblading. Highlights of the trail include crossing four trestle bridges, including the longest trestle bridge in the state of Wisconsin, and stops at four developed parks along the way.

Find a trail map here

Fox Trot Trail

The Fox Trot Trail is a self-guided, scenic 2-mile loop of Appleton’s downtown and riverfront. Along the way you’ll find 16 points of interest highlighting Appleton’s rich history and beautiful views of the Fox River. The trail is marked by blue fox paw prints on the sidewalk and each fox head logo indicates a spot on the trail corresponding to a point of interest. Paper copies of the map and point of interest brochure can be found at the Fox Cities CVB Visitor Center or the Hilton Appleton Paper Valley Hotel.

Find a trail map here

Fox Cities Paper Trail

The Fox Cities Paper Trail is a 50-mile circle route that connects 11 Fox Cities communities. The trail is a collection of off-road paths, bike lanes, and streets that take a user alongside Fox Cities Stadium and through 21 parks. About 25% of the trail is off-road and signage has been placed along every turn for guidance. If you prefer a shorter route, the Paper Trail intersects with a number of other local trails that allow for customized circuits.

High Cliff State Park

High Cliff is the only state-owned recreational area on Lake Winnebago and is named for the limestone cliff of the Niagara Escarpment that runs through the park. There are seven trails offered at the park and each presents a different level of challenge to hikers and bikers. The Red Bird Trail is mostly level and features panoramic views of Lake Winnebago, Chief Red Bird’s statue, and historical limestone quarries. The Indian Mound trail is only 0.6 miles but takes hikers past effigy mounds built by Native Americans 1,500 years ago. For bikers, a 7.5 mile trail begins at the Family Campground and loops the length of the park.

Find a trail map here

Nature Preserves

The Fox Cities are home to various nature preserves and environmental centers that offer miles of trails and educational opportunities for children and families. Explore the options below for more details: