🍽️ Activities & Features

Expert recommendations based on quality, value, and visitor feedback

Item Price
Lakeshore Trails (12+ miles)
Hiking, walking, and running trails through woods, prairies, and lakefront; includes the accessible Howard Temin Lakeshore Path.
 Free
Picnic Point Peninsula
Iconic, mile-long peninsula with lake views, multiple fire circles, and picnic spots.
 Free (Fire circles: $25–$50 reservation)
Fire Circle Rentals
Designated fire pits for group gatherings; must be reserved online in advance.
 $25–$50
Guided Nature Walks & Programs
Seasonal educational walks led by university naturalists—topics include birdwatching, wildflowers, and local ecology.
 Free (registration may be required)
Birdwatching & Wildlife Viewing
Over 255 bird species recorded; prime migration and nesting habitat. Bring binoculars for best experience.
 Free
Parking (Lot 130, Frautschi Point, Raymer’s Cove)
Paid and free options; Lot 130 charges weekdays, other lots free on evenings/weekends.
 $1/30 min (Lot 130); Free (select lots/times)

Trails & Recreation: The Preserve’s 12+ miles of trails are the main draw, ranging from the paved Howard Temin Lakeshore Path (bike- and wheelchair-friendly) to rustic woodland and prairie loops. Picnic Point is the local favorite—a mile-long peninsula with panoramic Lake Mendota views, multiple fire circles (reservable), and benches for sunset watching. For a quieter experience, Frautschi Point and Raymer’s Cove offer peaceful, less-trafficked paths and shoreline access.

Facilities: Restrooms are rustic pit toilets located near the Narrows on Picnic Point and at Frautschi Point trailhead. There are no flush toilets or running water, so plan accordingly. Picnic tables and benches are scattered throughout the preserve, especially at the entrance to Picnic Point and at gathering areas near fire circles. No on-site concessions; all food and drink must be brought in.

Programs & Learning: The Preserve regularly hosts guided nature walks, citizen science events, and university-led programs—check their website or social media for current schedules. These are great for all ages and offer expert insight into local ecology, birding, and wildflowers.

Practical Details:

  • Restrooms: Rustic toilets at Picnic Point Narrows and Frautschi Point; no flush facilities.
  • Picnic Areas: Several picnic tables at entry points and fire circles; first-come, first-served except for reserved fire circles.
  • Accessibility: Main paths (Howard Temin and Picnic Point) are mostly accessible; other trails can be narrow, uneven, or muddy after rain.
  • Permits/Reservations: Fire circles require advance reservations (reserve here); general trail and picnic area use does not require a permit.
  • Rules: No alcohol, camping, or amplified music. Dogs must be leashed; no bikes on Picnic Point or Frautschi Point trails. Leave no trace—carry out all trash.
  • Safety: Trails can be icy in winter and muddy after rain; sturdy shoes recommended. Cell coverage is generally reliable.

Expert Tips: Arrive early or visit on weekdays for less crowded trails and easier parking. Bring water and snacks, especially if exploring beyond Picnic Point. For birdwatchers, sunrise is prime time—bring binoculars and check the kiosk for recent sightings. In summer, mosquito repellent is a must!

✨ The Experience

🌅
Natural Setting & Scenery
The preserve delivers a rare blend of lakefront views, mature oak woodlands, prairies, and marshes—all within Madison’s city limits. Picnic Point is a local icon for sunsets and skyline photography, while Frautschi Point offers a quieter, wilder vibe. Research and visitor photos confirm: wildlife sightings are frequent, and fall color is exceptional.
🥾
Trail Difficulty & Accessibility
The Howard Temin Lakeshore Path and main Picnic Point trail are flat, wide, and accessible for strollers, wheelchairs, and bikes (on the Temin Path). Side trails vary from easy to moderate, with some steep, uneven, or muddy sections. Accessibility is best on main routes; offshoots may challenge those with mobility needs.
🛠️
Facilities & Maintenance Quality
Facilities are intentionally rustic—expect clean but basic pit toilets and well-maintained trails. Benches, trail signage, and picnic tables are strategically placed and generally in good repair. Ongoing stewardship by UW staff and volunteers keeps litter to a minimum, though occasional muddy spots and seasonal wear are common.
👥
Crowd Levels & Peak Times
Picnic Point and the Lakeshore Path are busiest on sunny weekends and late afternoons. Early mornings and weekdays offer a much quieter experience. Locals recommend Frautschi Point or the Biocore Prairie to escape crowds. Parking fills quickly on nice days—plan to arrive before 10 AM or after 4 PM for best results.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Are dogs allowed at the Lakeshore Nature Preserve?
Yes, leashed dogs are permitted throughout the preserve. Owners must pick up after their pets and keep dogs on designated trails. Note: dogs are not allowed in fire circle areas or inside any buildings.
Do I need a permit or reservation to visit or picnic?
General trail use and picnicking do not require a permit or reservation. However, if you wish to use a fire circle for a campfire or group event, advance reservation and payment are required. Reserve online through UW’s official site.
Is the preserve accessible for people with mobility challenges?
The main paths to Picnic Point and along the Howard Temin Lakeshore Path are accessible for wheelchairs and strollers. Many side trails are uneven, narrow, or have steep grades. For the most accessible experience, stick to the paved or crushed gravel main routes.

📖 About UW-Madison Lakeshore Nature Preserve

The UW-Madison Lakeshore Nature Preserve is a 300-acre natural sanctuary managed by the University of Wisconsin-Madison, protecting nearly 4 miles of Lake Mendota shoreline and a mosaic of habitats. Once the hunting and gathering grounds of the Ho-Chunk people and later part of the university’s agricultural campus, the preserve has been carefully stewarded for research, recreation, and education since the mid-20th century. Today, it’s beloved by students, faculty, and locals alike for its biodiversity, iconic Picnic Point peninsula, and commitment to ecological restoration. The preserve serves as an outdoor classroom, a recreational haven, and a living laboratory—hosting everything from bird counts to prairie burns. Its role in connecting Madison’s urban core with wild lakefront makes it a vital community asset and a model for campus-based conservation.