Portion Of Hank Aaron State Trail To Close During Wisconsin State Fair

MADISON, Wis. – The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) in partnership with Wisconsin State Fair Park officials today announced that the Hank Aaron State Trail will once again be closed between S. 76th St. and S. 84th St. during the 2025 Wisconsin State Fair to ensure that safety continues to be a top priority. The fair will run July 31 through Aug. 10, 2025.

The Hank Aaron State Trail runs east/west and passes over State Fair Park north of W. Schlinger Ave. west of the Fair Park, Fifth Street within the Fair Park and W. Pierce St. east of the Fair Park. In recent years, State Fair Park Management and Police have worked diligently to secure the entire perimeter of the park by adding metal detectors at all admission entrances, installing more secure fencing, instituting bag size restrictions and reconfiguring gates, entrances and exits. Allowing an elevated trail that runs directly over visitors and vendors at State Fair Park to stay open during the State Fair severely compromises this secure perimeter.

"While we understand the challenges this causes for trail users, I believe this is a necessary security measure that will help to ensure the safety of our fairgoers, exhibitors, vendors, operators and staff," said John Yingling, Chairman of the Wisconsin State Fair Park Board of Directors.

Alternative routes are available in both directions. It is understood that various routes may be utilized based on preference and destination. In advance of the closure, which will begin on July 31 at 8 a.m., State Fair Park staff will post signage on the trail regarding the closure dates and alternate routes. State Fair Park will also be adding additional striping for bike lanes in both directions on North St. (Adler), which runs between the State Fair Park North Parking lot and the UScellular Main Entrance. Additional information can be found online on the Wisconsin State Fair website.

Questions and concerns from the public may be directed to State Fair Park Police at 414-519-7324.

About The Wisconsin State Fair

The 2025 Wisconsin State Fair, presented by UScellular, will take place July 31 – Aug. 10. The State Fair offers a unique experience to all who attend and is an exceptional value. Enjoy dozens of FREE entertainment stages, exciting rides and games in SpinCity, thousands of animals, endless family activities, events, contests, shopping vendors and culinary delights. For more information, visit the Wisconsin State Fair website or follow them on Facebook and Instagram.