Explore the many scenic trails and pathways throughout Madison Parks.  Year-round restrooms are available at Cherokee Marsh, North and Owen conservation parks. 

MAPS
Some of the parks have a trail map on-site or in the "About This Park" on the individual park webpage.  

Dogs
Most parks allow leashed & licensed dogs with a Dog Park Permit. However, dogs are prohibited in all conservation parks and a number of Dog Free Parks. View all Hiking

Experience winter in Madison Parks like never before with snowshoeing!  This silent sport is a fantastic way to explore many of our parks during the winter months and is easy to learn. 

Snowshoe Rentals at Vilas and Elver 
Snowshoe rentals are available as conditions allow and when staff is present at Elver and Vilas shelters. Staff is scheduled Wednesday - Sunday based on winter recreation conditions. 

RATES 

Snowshoe Rentals	Adult (16 & older)	Youth (15 & under)
Hourly	$5	$2
Additional Hour	$2	$2
Daily (24 hours)	$25	$10
Additional Day	$15	$5

2023 Snowshoe Hike Events

• Candlelit Snowshoe Hike, Jan. 14
• Candlelight Snowshoe Hike, Jan. 21

SNOWSHOEING TIPS 

• DO snowshoe anywhere in a general park with good snow cover, except on a cross-country ski trail. 
• Do snowshoe at Door Creek Park on marked trails - see *new* MAP.
• DO snowshoe at Elver Park on the marked trail - see MAP.
• DO snowshoe at Yahara Hills on the marked trails - see MAP.
• DO snowshoe on a trail in any conservation park, except those designated for cross-country skiing (Cherokee Marsh South, Owen, and Turville Point) 
• DO snowshoe with sufficient snow (typically 4" or more).
• DON'T snowshoe off-trail in a conservation park. 
  • Snowshoeing, hiking, and skiing off-trail can destroy snow tunnels used by native small rodents (deer mice, shrews) by the trampling effect. These small mammals are an important part of the wetland and grassland ecology in our conservation parks. Destruction of these tunnel networks makes the small mammals more vulnerable to predation.
• When in doubt, it's always best to stay on a trail.
  • Our trail systems are designed to facilitate controlled public access while protecting environmentally sensitive areas and providing quiet refuges for wildlife away from people. Disruption of wildlife by human activity during the winter puts additional stress on them during a challenging time for their survival.
• Learn more:
  • Read Your Guide to Snowshoeing in Madison Parks
  • Subscribe to Winter Recreation News

View all Snowshoeing