There’s no better time to get outside than during peak autumn season in Wisconsin! Here are some of our favorite local nature spots where you or your student can get some exercise and fresh air while appreciating the beauty of our state.
(In need of some gear? Stout Adventures on campus offers equipment rental to the community including options for camping, paddling, climbing, and more.)
1. Red Cedar State Trail
- less than 1 mile west of UW-Stout | Google Maps | DNR website
- Biking, hiking, walking, jogging
Walk or drive westward from south campus just under a mile to connect with the Red Cedar State Trail at Riverside Park. For nearly 15 miles it follows the Red Cedar Valley from Menomonie down to the Chippewa River, where it links up with the Chippewa River State Trail. As the DNR website describes, the trail “passes by prairies, marshland bottoms, forests and farmlands, including sandstone bluffs and other unique rock formations.” It’s a popular choice among locals for biking, walking, or skiing in the winter.
2. Red Cedar River
- less than 1 mile west of UW-Stout | Google Maps
- Kayaking, canoeing, tube floating
For those who prefer water to land, head to the Red Cedar River. As a fairly robust river, you shouldn’t have to worry about water levels being too low. If anything, make sure the current suits your comfort level before heading out! Put in at either the boat landing below Highway 29 (on the east bank of the river) or at Riverside Park (on the west bank). You’ll have the option to take out at Irvington Landing, 3 miles from the launch site. Or for a full-day adventure, continue an additional 10 miles south to Dunnsville. Recruit a friend to pick you and your vessel up at the end for a quick drive back to Menomonie.
3. Wakanda Park
- 2.5 miles north of UW-Stout | Google Maps | website
- Disc golf, picnicking, walking, swimming, playground equipment
This quaint city park sits overlooks the north edge of Lake Menomin. While the waterpark is popular in the summertime, in the fall you can still enjoy a variety of activities on the 18-hole disc golf course, baseball diamonds, playgrounds, and walking trails. Wakanda Park is a great choice for families or groups of friends.
4. Devil’s Punchbowl
- 3 miles southwest of UW-Stout | Google Maps
- Hiking
The Devil’s Punchbowl is a truly breathtaking spot to explore, featuring unique geology and a soothing waterfall. Bring a solid pair of hiking shoes to enjoy a short but steep walk down a staircase into the sandstone basin. As a designated scientific study area, the community is diligent about protecting this area’s delicate ecosystem. (It’s arguably even more stunning in the winter, when 4-foot-icicles line the rim of the basin!)
5. Hoffman Hills State Recreation Area
- 11 miles northeast of UW-Stout | Google Maps | DNR website
- Hiking, walking, jogging
You’ll need a car to get there, but Hoffman Hills is worth the 20-minute drive. Explore 9 miles of hiking trails and—if it’s open—climb the 60-foot observation tower for one of the best panoramic views in the region. The oranges, reds, and golds of autumn will be on display across these beautiful rolling hills.
For more inspiration, take a look at Explore Menomonie’s Travel Guide. Happy trails!
