Day Trips from Appleton
← All Appleton day tripsDay Trips from Appleton: Hiking Trails & Nature
Find the best hiking trails and nature destinations within driving distance of Appleton, WI. From easy lakeside walks to challenging ridge hikes, these day trip trails deliver real scenery without the plane ticket. Drive times, ratings, and trail info included.
12 hiking trails near Appleton
Schmeeckle Reserve
Stevens Point, WI 54481
Just 1 hr 11 min from Appleton, rated 4.9 stars by 832 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Gibraltar Rock State Natural Area
Lodi, WI 53555
Just 1 hr 58 min from Appleton, rated 4.9 stars by 812 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Parfrey's Glen State Natural Area
Merrimac, WI 53561
Just 2 hrs 3 min from Appleton, rated 4.8 stars by 1,510 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Lion's Den Gorge Nature Preserve
Grafton, WI 53024
Just 1 hr 41 min from Appleton, rated 4.8 stars by 2,512 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Dells of the Wisconsin River State Natural Area
WI 53965, USA
Just 2 hrs 1 min from Appleton, rated 4.8 stars by 2,489 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Ellison Bluff State Natural Area
Ellison Bay, WI 54210
Just 2 hrs 8 min from Appleton, rated 4.8 stars by 1,041 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Ferry Bluff State Natural Area
Sauk City, WI 53583
Just 2 hrs 15 min from Appleton, rated 4.8 stars by 342 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Seven Bridges
South Milwaukee, WI 53172
Just 1 hr 53 min from Appleton, rated 4.8 stars by 3,016 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Peninsula State Park
Fish Creek, WI 54212
Just 1 hr 47 min from Appleton, rated 4.8 stars by 5,565 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
High Cliff Escarpment State Natural Area
WI 54129, USA
Just 26 min from Appleton, rated 4.8 stars by 547 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Sentinel Trail
Fish Creek, WI 54212
Just 1 hr 54 min from Appleton, rated 4.8 stars, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Sturgeon Bay Ship Canal Nature Preserve
Sturgeon Bay, WI 54235
Just 1 hr 21 min from Appleton, rated 4.8 stars, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Frequently Asked Questions About Hiking Trails Day Trips from Appleton
What are the best hiking trails near Appleton, WI?
The best hikes near Appleton range from easy nature preserve loops to challenging state park trails with waterfalls, overlooks, and canyon scenery. Check the cards above for top-rated options with real drive times.
Are there easy hikes near Appleton?
Yes. Many state parks and nature preserves near Appleton offer well-maintained, beginner-friendly trails under 3 miles. Look for "Nature" tagged destinations above for the most accessible options.
What should I bring on a day hike from Appleton?
Pack water, snacks, sunscreen, and layers. Most trails near Appleton are well-marked but cell service can be spotty in state parks. Download trail maps before you leave and wear sturdy shoes.
When is the best time to hike near Appleton?
Spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) offer the best hiking weather and scenery near Appleton. Fall foliage is spectacular at most destinations. Summer works but can be hot and buggy. Winter hiking is possible at many parks with proper gear.
Don't know where to go?
Tell us your interests, budget, and how far you want to drive. We'll find the perfect trip for you.
Surprise me