Picnic Point Lakeshore Preserve
A scenic 2-mile hike to iconic views of Lake Mendota and the Madison skyline, offering wildflowers, fire pits, and a peaceful escape.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Picnic Point Lakeshore Preserve
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A scenic 2-mile hike to iconic views of Lake Mendota and the Madison skyline, offering wildflowers, fire pits, and a peaceful escape.
"The view was gorgeous! They had a nice spot where you could sit and take in the view."
🚶♀️ Walk the Lakeshore Path
Enjoy a scenic 1.6-mile hike with lake views and wildflowers. Great for walking and jogging.
🌅 Catch a Sunset
The preserve offers beautiful sunset views over the lake and city skyline.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Picnic Point Overlook
End of the Lakeshore Path
Iconic views of the Madison skyline and Lake Mendota. Perfect for photos and quiet contemplation.
Lakeshore Path
University of Wisconsin Lakeshore Nature Preserve
A scenic 1.6-mile gravel trail offering lake views, wildflowers, and access to small beaches.
Wildflower Fields
Various areas within the preserve
Vibrant displays of native wildflowers, especially beautiful in spring and summer.
Fire Pits & Picnic Spots
Along the Lakeshore Path
Ideal locations for gatherings, enjoying the outdoors, and watching the sunset.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Parking & Access
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Walk the Lakeshore Path
Enjoy a scenic 1.6-mile hike with lake views and wildflowers. Great for walking and jogging.
🌅 Catch a Sunset
The preserve offers beautiful sunset views over the lake and city skyline.
🚗 Parking Fees
Be aware of paid parking during work hours. Consider alternative transport if possible.
📚 Study Spot
Some find it a peaceful place for studying with natural light and greenery.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Walk the Lakeshore Path
Enjoy a scenic 1.6-mile hike with lake views and wildflowers. Great for walking and jogging.
🌅 Catch a Sunset
The preserve offers beautiful sunset views over the lake and city skyline.
🚗 Parking Fees
Be aware of paid parking during work hours. Consider alternative transport if possible.
📚 Study Spot
Some find it a peaceful place for studying with natural light and greenery.
🦢 Fall Birdwatching
University Bay is a prime spot for waterfowl during fall migration.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the stunning views of Lake Mendota and the Madison skyline from Picnic Point, calling the 2-mile hike relaxing and worthwhile. The preserve offers beautiful wildflower fields, lake views, and ample picnic spots with fire pits, making it a beloved destination for walks, jogs, and enjoying sunsets. Some mention overgrown sections on the trail and paid parking during work hours as minor drawbacks.
"Beautiful 2 mile hike to and from picnic point. A bit over grown in some places but still worth the hike. You can see the city of Madison from the trail."
Alyssa Price
"My Monday night class met up here yesterday. We had to write a paper and the walk was so relaxing! This was my first time here. The view was gorgeous! They had a nice spot where you could sit and take in the view."
Brandi
"Great walking and jogging paths with lots of fire pits and picnic spaces. Beautiful wildflower fields and lake views. Great place to see a sunset. Paid parking during work hours. About 1.9 miles round trip unless you take one of spurs."
Karen Tracy
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Picnic Point is located within the University of Wisconsin Lakeshore Nature Preserve. Access is typically from the west side of campus, near University Bay Drive. Paid parking is available during work hours.
While specific bus routes can vary, the preserve is generally accessible by public transit to the UW-Madison campus. Check local transit schedules for routes serving the Lakeshore area.
The Lakeshore Path can be accessed from various points, including near Picnic Point itself or from areas closer to campus dorms and recreational centers.
Yes, biking is a popular way to reach and explore the preserve. There are bike paths and racks available in some areas.
The main Lakeshore Path is a gravel trail and may present challenges for wheelchairs in some sections. Some areas might be more accessible than others.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to Picnic Point and the Lakeshore Nature Preserve is free for the public.
The preserve is generally open from dawn to dusk. Specific facilities like restrooms may have limited hours.
There is no entrance fee for the Lakeshore Nature Preserve. Enjoy the natural beauty for free.
Picnic spots and fire pits are available on a first-come, first-served basis. It's advisable to arrive early, especially on weekends.
While the preserve is open daily, it's best to check for any specific event closures or seasonal restrictions on the UW Lakeshore Nature Preserve website.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can hike the scenic Lakeshore Path, enjoy city skyline views from Picnic Point, explore wildflower fields, use fire pits, and observe wildlife.
The main hike to Picnic Point and back is approximately 1.9 to 2 miles, depending on the specific route taken.
Restrooms are available near the Picnic Point entrance and at the Union where the path ends. Other facilities may be located near parking lots.
There are small beaches along the Lakeshore Path where swimming might be possible, but it's advisable to check for safety and water quality advisories.
The preserve is known for birdwatching, especially during migration seasons, and you might see various waterfowl and other local fauna.
📸 📸 Photography
The overlook at Picnic Point offers stunning views of the Madison skyline. The Lakeshore Path with its lake vistas and wildflowers also provides great photo opportunities.
Absolutely! The preserve is a fantastic location to capture beautiful sunset shots over Lake Mendota.
Early mornings and late afternoons (golden hours) offer the best natural light for photography, minimizing harsh shadows and enhancing colors.
Drone usage is typically restricted in university-owned areas and nature preserves. It's best to check UW-Madison's policies regarding drone operation.
Spring and summer offer vibrant wildflowers, while fall provides beautiful autumn colors. Winter can offer serene, snow-covered landscapes.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Pack a picnic and utilize the fire pits for a fun outdoor meal. Remember to bring water and snacks, and keep an eye on children near the water. Beyond the main path, the preserve offers educational opportunities like the Native American Effigy Mounds and Ho-Chunk Clans ring, which can spark curiosity in young minds. It's a great way to combine outdoor activity with learning about local history and nature in a safe and engaging environment.
🚶♀️ Fitness Enthusiasts
You can extend your activity by exploring some of the preserve's spurs or incorporating interval training along the path. Beyond running, the preserve offers a natural setting for yoga or meditation. Many find the peaceful ambiance and natural surroundings conducive to mindful movement and relaxation. The varied terrain also offers a good challenge for those seeking a more dynamic outdoor fitness experience.
📚 Students & Academics
Many classes also utilize the preserve for outdoor sessions or assignments, taking advantage of its unique ecological and historical features. The proximity to campus makes it an easily accessible location for a quick study break or an extended research outing.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Lakeshore Nature Preserve
For those interested in the preserve's unique offerings, keep an eye out for the outdoor archeology pit laboratory and the outdoor wood-fired ceramics kiln. The Biocore prairie is another highlight, showcasing native Wisconsin plant life. These less-traveled areas provide a deeper understanding of the preserve's ecological and cultural significance, making it a rich destination for nature lovers and history buffs alike.
Many visitors are drawn to the preserve for its peaceful atmosphere and opportunities for quiet reflection or study. The natural beauty, from the lake views to the wildflower fields, contributes to a sense of tranquility that is often sought after in urban environments.
Picnic Point: A UW-Madison Icon
Historically, Picnic Point has been a cherished gathering place for generations. The presence of fire pits suggests its long-standing tradition as a spot for outdoor recreation and community events. Whether you're having a casual picnic, attending a class meeting, or simply taking in the view, Picnic Point offers a memorable experience.
While the main path is well-maintained, some sections can become overgrown, especially during peak growing seasons. This adds to the natural feel of the preserve but means visitors should be prepared for a slightly wilder experience in certain areas. The journey to Picnic Point is as much a part of the experience as the destination itself.
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