On a hilltop overlooking Madison's west side, this park was the farm and personal retreat of former University Professor Edward T. Owen. Today, prairies and oak savannas have risen like a phoenix to reclaim the landscape. Coneflowers, goldenrod, and bluestem are among the many plants that yield a harvest of ever-changing color and texture throughout the year.
Help us identify plant species found at Owen Conservation Park. We welcome your help in verifying and updating this list. Feel free to send us any notes or information you may have about the plant community at Owen, including the dates you observe the different species to pquinlan@cityofmadison.com.
Bird & Nature Outing: Explore this park with a FREE, guided nature walk offered monthly.
Land Management
In 2008, construction was completed on 3 stormwater/wildlife ponds in the southwest corner of the park near Jetty Dr. The ponds replaced an eroded channel that carried tons of sediment to Lake Mendota every year. The first 2 ponds trap nearly 70% of the sediment. The third pond functions chiefly as additional wildlife habitat. Native prairie plants, trees and shrubs surround the ponds. The ponds have been planted with aquatic plants. Having permanent water habitat will attract additional wildlife e.g. herons, wood ducks, shorebirds.
Over 22 miles of signed and groomed trails await cross-country skiers at 7 Madison Parks locations. A PERMIT is required at three of the locations: Elver Park, Odana Hills, and Yahara Hills. All other trails are free to use.
2019 FEES
Daily
$7
Annual
$30
Senior (65+) & Disabled
$15
Replacement
$12
2019 permit valid through December 31, 2019
2020 permit available online beginning November 15 & valid for use in 2019
GROOMED = trail is open and recently groomed (date listed on the individual page)
OPEN = trail is snow covered, skiable but not recently groomed
CLOSED = skiing is not advised or permitted
** To stay updated on the ski trail conditions, subscribe to email updates in My Account **
TRAIL CONDITIONS & GROOMING
Ski trails typically open after the first snowfall over 4" depending on the type of snow and trail conditions.
Fee-based trails are groomed more frequently, as conditions allow and for both skate and classic skiing.
Free ski trails are tracked or roll groomed for classic cross-country skiing.
We may not be able to groom or we may need to close a trail to preserve the trail condition. This website is updated as soon as information from the field is available.
Permit fees are non-refundable
TRAIL TIPS & RESPONSIBILITIES
Follow directional arrows. Some trails are marked for one-way use
Trails are rated for difficulty at the trailhead
Skiers stay on groomed trails only
No dogs, horses, snowboards, motor vehicles, hiking or snowshoeing on groomed trails
Hiking is a great way to get out and explore Madison Parks. Thousands of acres offer everything from easy strolls to hilltop climbs, meandering woodsy trails and open fields. Hike on a path through a conservation park where we focus on native plant restoration and animal communities. Or take a walk in one of our many neighborhood parks providing a series of paths and trails of varying lengths and features. Post your photos on social media using #madisonparks
Turville Point Conservation ParkView all Hiking
Parking lots are available in these parks for the programs or events in these parks. Parking lots are available from 4:00 am to 10:00 pm. Overnight parking is not allowed. Parking regulations specific to that park are posted at the entrance of the park.
View all Parking Lots
Restrooms are located throughout the parks system and in most cases in a park with a reservable shelter. Most of the restrooms are available only during the summer months. Restrooms available during the winter months include those open for winter activities at the following parks: Tenney, Vilas, Elver, Olbrich, Warner and Westmorland Parks.
No firearms or weapons are permitted on this property. Violators are considered trespassers and subject to forfeiture or arrest.
Conservation Parks are uniquely managed to further protect native species and wildlife. The following rules apply to all conservation designated parks.
Bicycles & Motor Vehicles
Bicycles and motor vehicles are restricted to entrance roads and parking lots.
Dogs
Dogs and horses are not allowed.
Fire
Fires and picnics are prohibited.
Firearms
No firearms or weapons are permitted in the restrooms or shelters. Violators are considered trespassers and subject to forfeiture or arrest.
Glass
Glass is not allowed.
Hunting & Trapping
Hunting and trapping are prohibited.
Open Hours
Conservation park hours are 4am until one hour after sunset.
Plants
All plants and animals are protected. Disturbance or removal requires written permission.
Trails
Stay on and use designated trails only.
Trash & Recycling
Place trash in container provided. Please take recyclable material home for proper disposal.
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Cross-Country Skiing
Hiking
Hiking is a great way to get out and explore Madison Parks. Thousands of acres offer everything from easy strolls to hilltop climbs, meandering woodsy trails and open fields. Hike on a path through a conservation park where we focus on native plant restoration and animal communities. Or take a walk in one of our many neighborhood parks providing a series of paths and trails of varying lengths and features. Post your photos on social media using #madisonparks.JPG)
Parking Lot
Parking lots are available in these parks for the programs or events in these parks. Parking lots are available from 4:00 am to 10:00 pm. Overnight parking is not allowed. Parking regulations specific to that park are posted at the entrance of the park. View all Parking Lots
Restroom
Scenic Overlook
Many of the Madison Parks are located in ideal locations for sight seeing. Enjoy the view! View all Scenic Overlooks
