Hikes provide the perfect opportunity to get out and enjoy our beautiful state. For some, though, stunning scenery isn’t enough of a reason to embark on a hike. If you’re one of those people, the Scuppernong Springs Nature Loop is the trek for you. Not only does the 1.5-mile trail boast several natural springs, but it leads to the ruins of several abandoned structures from the past. Take a look:
The Scuppernong Springs Nature Loop is located in the Southern Unit of the Kettle Moraine State Forest.
Susan Graff/All Trails
As easy to hike as it is to access, the trail is just 1.5 miles round trip. Plus, it features very little elevation change.
Amy Bayer/Flickr
There are also several boardwalks to make the trek even more effortless. But just because this hike requires little effort on your part, don’t think it’s lacking in terms of payoff.
Cara Mazik/All Trails
And you’ll get part of that payoff practically as soon as you start the hike. Not far from the trailhead, you’ll come to an old sect of railroad bed from the 1900s.
Dale Porter/All Trails
The railroad bed extends about 100 yards to the ruins of Marl Works, an old marl plant that operated from 1909 to 1915. Marl from the plant was transported via the old tracks to a warehouse in Dousman.
Ashley Russel/All Trails
A graffiti-covered wall is all that remains of the plant. To think that the dilapidated structure was once a thriving factory is pretty surreal.
V’ron/Flickr
Further along the trail, you’ll find an array of pristine springs.
Justine Oldenberg/All Trails
The springs are marked with signage and numbered to coordinate with trail maps, ensuring you don’t miss any of them.
V’ron/Flickr
The water’s flawless condition isn’t the only thing about the springs that’ll get your attention, though. There’s also the fact that it bubbles.
Dale Porter/All Trails
Aside from the factory ruins and springs…
V’ron/Flickr
…the trail features a Native American campground, the foundation of an old hotel, wildlife, seasonal wildflowers, and — if visiting during the summer — tons of wild raspberries and blackberries.
Audrey Ogden/Google
Know before you go: Mosquitoes can be a nuisance, so make sure to bring insect repellent. For more information, call the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources at 888-936-7463. You can also visit the department’s website.
Susan Graff/All Trails
Amy Bayer/Flickr
Cara Mazik/All Trails
Dale Porter/All Trails
Ashley Russel/All Trails
V’ron/Flickr
Justine Oldenberg/All Trails
Audrey Ogden/Google
So, did you know about this unique trail? Ever hiked it? If so, what’d you think? Know of another worthwhile trek? Tell us in the comments section.
Looking for another short and sweet hike? Click here.
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