Skip to main content

Hiking

Kettle Moraine State Forest – Lapham Peak Unit

Lapham Peak has more than 17 miles of loop trails in the forest that vary in difficulty. Trails may be combined to create your own circuit or one-way hike. Most trails are open to hikers in the summer and cross-country skiers in the winter. Hikers, pets and snowshoers must stay off of the ski trails when they are snow-covered. Pets on designated trails must be on a leash no longer than 8 feet.

Abundant bird life and wildlife can be observed from all trails and guided bird hikes are held each spring. There are several prairie restoration sites and a butterfly garden.

One of the highlights of the forest is the observation tower, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding area. Hiking is not allowed on the cross-country ski trails when they are snow-covered. Pets must be on a leash 8 feet or shorter at all times.

Hiking trails

Ice Age National Scenic Trail

About 4 miles of the Ice Age National Scenic Trail travels through the property. The Ice Age Trail exits the property on the north at Cushing Park Road and, on the southern end, the Ice Age Trail connects to the Glacial Drumlin State Trail.

Kame Terrace trail

An easy 2-mile trail beginning at the Homestead Hollow parking lot by. Open to hikers in the summer and skiers during winter.

Kettle View trail

An intermediate 5.8-mile trail beginning at the Evergreen Grove parking lot by the park entrance. Open to hikers in the summer and skiers during winter.

Man-Made Snow trail

Starting at the park entrance at the evergreen grove parking lot, this 1-mile trail is open to hikers in the summer and skiers during winter.

Meadow trail

An easy 2-mile trail beginning at the Evergreen Grove parking lot by the park entrance. Open to hikers in the summer and skiers during winter.

Moraine Ridge trail

The 7-mile Moraine Ridge Trail is a more advanced ski trail winding through the glacial topography of the forest. The trail starts at the park entrance at the Evergreen Grove parking lot. Open to hikers in the summer and skiers during winter.

Plantation Path trail

This 1.8-mile paved trail is accessible to people with disabilities. The trail begins at the Homestead Hollow area and is an interpretive trail through a prairie and wooded area.