The Top 20 Attractions in Dane County
There are plenty of places to see and visit in Dane County. Whether you love hiking or cycling, Dane County is a region where 20
hidden gems are waiting to be explored and visited. Check the top places to visit in the region and plan your next adventure today.
hidden gems are waiting to be explored and visited. Check the top places to visit in the region and plan your next adventure today.
Last updated: December 9, 2025
University of Wisconsin–Madison Arboretum
Highlight • Forest
17 miles (27 km) of trails lead through the Arboretum. They take you through diverse natural areas: woodlands, savannas, prairies, wetlands and gardens. There's a huge amount of diversity here.
The grounds are open from 4am until 10pm daily.
The grounds are open from 4am until 10pm daily.
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Capital City State Trail at Monona Terrace
Highlight (Segment) • Cycleway
The Capital City State Trail is a 17-mile paved multi-use path open year-round. A state trail pass is required to bike the nine-mile portion of the trail that passes through …
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Glenway Woods
Highlight • Forest
Glenway Woods is a beautiful, yet somewhat hidden, gem that spans over 10 acres of land. Although it doesn't currently have a park classification, locals have created a few mountain …
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Southwest Commuter Path
Highlight (Segment) • Cycleway
The 5.6-mile Southwest Commuter Path, also called the Southwest Commuter Path, connects Brittingham Park on Lake Monona to the Capital City State Trail at Arrowhead Park in Fitchburg. It is …
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Yahara River
Highlight • River
The Yahara River flows 62 miles through Madison's four lakes across Dane County to the Rock River. This is the short stretch between Lake Mendota and Lake Monoana where there …
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William G. Lunney Lake Farm County Park
Highlight • Trail
Recognized for its cultural importance, the area was placed on the National Register of Historic Places and designated the Lake Farms Archaeological District in 1980. Explore the park's scenic trails, …
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Lake Wingra
Highlight • Lake
Lake Wingra is a spring-fed lake surrounded by multi-use paths and trail networks, with the Lake Wingra Recreation Loop being one of the more popular routes. It's a fishable lake with Musky, Panfish, Largemouth Bass, Northern Pike, and Walleye.
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Lower Yahara River Trail
Highlight (Segment) • Cycleway
The Lower Yahara River Bike Path offers beautiful views of Madison and its landscapes. At its western end, it connects to the Capital State Trail.
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Pheasant Branch Creek Corridor Trail
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
Pheasant Branch Creek Corridor Trail spans 1.4 miles through the wooded Pheasant Branch Creek Corridor. This two-lane, paved trail features benches, streams, and a nice city getaway for hikers, bikers, and dogs on leashes.
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Lake Mendota
Highlight • Lake
Lake Mendota formed around 15,000 years ago when glacial ice began to melt. It's very biodiverse, with over 34 common species of fish and 255 bird species.
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