Not all worthwhile hikes require navigating strenuous terrain or trekking countless miles. Take the Lake Loop Trail, for example. A favorite of all ages, the easy-to-navigate trail is just 1.5 miles in length and leads straight to a cascading waterfall. Take a look:
If getting in touch with nature is on your agenda, Wehr Nature Center in Franklin is the place for you.
Wehr Nature Center/Google
The 220-acre nature preserve has a lot to offer in the way of outdoor fun. In addition to a visitor center with educational exhibits and live animals, there are five miles of trails.
Wehr Nature Center/Facebook
Of the park’s five trails, Lake Loop is the most popular, which makes sense since it winds through a variety of habitats and includes a cascading waterfall.
Nathaniel Beck/Google
At just 1.5 miles in length, the loop trail is suitable for hikers of all ages and skill levels.
friendsofwehr.org
A combination of relatively flat terrain, bridges, and improved trails only add to the hike’s simplicity.
April Sernel/All Trails
Though lacking in miles and difficulty, the trail delivers when it comes to incredible views — and that’s because it follows the shoreline of Mallard Lake.
Jim Mauch/Google
Along the way, you’ll trek through a wetland, lowland forest, and a prairie.
Jim Mauch/Google
But the best view of all is the waterfall!
Jeremiah Mertz/All Trails
Fed by Mallard Lake, the rushing fall flows into the Root River.
Jeremiah Mertz/All Trails
From the trail, you can take in the waterfall from a variety of vantage points.
Crystal Garcia/Google
There are even a couple of benches, so you can relax while enjoying the idyllic fall.
Bryan Fitzpatrick/Google
Remember, your time at Wehr Nature Center doesn’t have to end when Lake Loop Trail does.
Greg Forton/All Trails
Spend some time checking out the site’s other amenities. Aside from additional hiking trails, there are a variety of gardens as well as a play area with a sandbox, stepping stones, and log cabin playhouse.
Tenille Minnix/Google
Wehr Nature Center/Google
Wehr Nature Center/Facebook
Nathaniel Beck/Google
friendsofwehr.org
April Sernel/All Trails
Jim Mauch/Google
Jim Mauch/Google
Jeremiah Mertz/All Trails
Crystal Garcia/Google
Bryan Fitzpatrick/Google
Greg Forton/All Trails
Tenille Minnix/Google
For more information, call (414) 425-8550. You can also visit the Wehr Nature Center website or Facebook page.
So, did you know about the Wehr Nature Center? What about the Lake Loop Trail? Ever hiked along the lakeside path? If so, what’d you think? Tell us in the comments section.
This isn’t the state’s only kid-friendly hike. Read about others here.
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Address: 9701 W College Ave, Franklin, WI 53132, USA
