Information
Landmark: Blue Mound State ParkCity: Madison WI
Country: USA Wisconsin
Continent: North America
Blue Mound State Park, Madison WI, USA Wisconsin, North America
Blue Mound State Park perches precariously atop West Blue Mound unusually high at 1719 feet above sea level in south-central Wisconsin.
Park sprawls over roughly 1,153 acres boasting commanding vistas geological significance serene woodlands and plentiful family-friendly attractions quite famously.
It lies roughly 25 miles west of Madison making it a pretty accessible escape into scenic Driftless Area.
Blue Mound stands peculiarly as a monadnock with resistant rock remaining stubbornly after erosion has worn surrounding terrain extensively away.
Blue Mound lies within Driftless Area largely untouched by glaciers during last Ice Age preserving steep ridges and deep valleys remarkably.
Hard dolomite from Niagara Escarpment forms park's hill which has stubbornly resisted erosion leaving this isolated landform standing tall above surrounding terrain.
Rare panoramic views unfold remarkably from this elevation and unique habitats thrive here not typically found in nearby arid lowlands.
Visitors can enjoy pretty much unobstructed 360-degree views right across the region from two 40-foot observation towers on east and west mounds.
On clear days visibility extends remarkably far.<br>The Baraboo Range looms northwards under bright skies.<br>Rolling hills and farmlands of Driftless Area stretch lazily.<br>Madison cityscape glimmers in eastern distance.<br>Even Iowa's terrain creeps into view westward sometimes.<br>Orientation panels on each tower facilitate identification of various landmarks and natural features nearby.
Blue Mound State Park features over 20 miles of trails for hiking biking and skiing across varied terrain like dense hardwood forests and rocky ridges.
Notable trails comprise Flintrock Nature Trail a 1.3-mile scenic loop replete with educational signage highlighting local geology and peculiar flint deposits nearby.
Bent oak tree on Indian Marker Tree Trail stands 0.5 miles long featuring a landmark allegedly shaped by Native Americans nearby.
Pleasure Valley Trail stretches 2.5 miles through dense deep woods with fairly gentle slopes and gorgeous autumnal foliage.
Perfect for taking a leisurely stroll outdoors amidst serene surroundings on a calm day preferably.
Weeping Rock Trail leads down into a secluded glade with water seeping slowly over verdant rocks in a profoundly serene atmosphere.
Walnut Hollow and Willow Springs trails offer diverse hiking experiences amidst woodland surroundings and damp hollows with Ridgeview winding through dry ridges.
Several trails remain open in winter for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing amidst frozen landscapes under gloomy skies fairly regularly.
Cyclists converge on Blue Mound State Park eagerly seeking thrills on Military Ridge Trail renowned for rugged mountain biking trails.
Technical singletrack trails there are super challenging pretty much statewide.
Volunteers built and maintained these trails which snake through hilly terrain with steep climbs fast swooping descents and rocky root-filled paths.
Military Ridge State Trail runs south of the park for casual riders.
A 40-mile trail made of crushed limestone follows old railway bed stretching quite irregularly from Dodgeville towards Fitchburg.
A short access path leads from park into this regional trail making it super convenient for campers and day visitors alike.77 family campsites with electrical hookups are available alongside 13 hike-in sites for Military Ridge Trail users under dense foliage.<br>A rustic cabin with electricity heat and screened porch is designed for visitors having disabilities.<br>Sites are spaced far apart for maximum privacy in a heavily wooded area.
Amenities comprise flush toilets and showers alongside drinking water sales of firewood and a dump station for recreational vehicles.
Reservations for sites can be made pretty easily during peak season which typically spans May through October somehow.
Blue Mound state park boasts a full-size outdoor pool and splash pad making it uniquely Wisconsin's sole park with such a facility.
Pool area encompasses lap swimming space and shallow zones for youngsters alongside zero-depth entry splash pad featuring lift chairs for accessibility.
It operates seasonally becoming hectic during long summer days.
Multiple picnic areas exist with shelters and charcoal grills offering pretty views.
Upper Shelter near east observation tower provides panoramic overlook often utilized for boisterous family reunions and sundry group events under bright sunny skies.
Nature Programs and Events unfold vibrantly in the park with guided treks through rugged terrain and gnarly woodland paths.<br>Fiery geology talks mesmerize crowds at dusk.<br>Campfire programs burst into song around nightfall at an outdoor amphitheater under star-studded skies.<br>Annual events like Candlelight Ski and Hike illuminate wintry trails with lanterns and serve rich fireside cocoa to bundled-up revelers.<br>Music on the Mound pulses with local musicians in a frenetic summer concert series.<br>A small center showcases rugged natural history exhibits about flora and fauna in the Driftless Area and bygone Native American presence.
Elevation brings variation in terrain fostering a rich diversity of flora and fauna quite remarkably across varied landscapes.
Forest comprises mostly oak and hickory trees with some maple and walnut trees growing rather densely nearby quite old walnut trees.
Wildlife abundant in park environs includes white-tailed deer and red foxes often spotted alongside raccoons and wild turkeys foraging nearby.<br>Various songbirds inhabit areas with woodpeckers and owls nesting quietly.<br>During spring open areas burst with vibrant purple coneflowers and black-eyed Susans.<br>Columbine blooms amidst summer greenery under sunny skies.
Snowy escapades abound in frozen parklands boasting myriad groomed trails for classic and skate skiing with scattered warming huts.<br>Permits are required for snowshoeing on specific designated paths only.<br>Certain walking loops remain open throughout year for exploring on foot.<br>A super popular Candlelight Ski & Hike event happens in late January or early February featuring illuminated trails and roaring bonfires and refreshments.
Blue Mound State Park boasts exceptionally accessible amenities including campsites and cabins with paved paths snaking through major attractions.<br>Wheelchair-accessible observation decks offer panoramic vistas.<br>A pool lift and splash pad exemplify universal design principles pretty well.<br>Picnic shelters and restrooms feature accessible layouts fairly nicely.<br>You'll find Blue Mound State Park at 4350 Mounds Park Rd in Blue Mounds.<br>It's open daily from 6 a.m.
till 11 p.m.
pretty much year-round.<br>A vehicle admission sticker is required and a separate trail pass is needed for biking and skiing enthusiasts.<br>This southern Wisconsin gem delivers surprisingly exceptional vistas and geological intrigue with well-maintained trails and family-centered facilities.
Beneath lantern-lit trees you can ski or hike among rugged limestone formations and cool off in swimming pools every season.
Its unique blend of natural elevation and Driftless Area ecology paired with top-notch facilities renders it a supremely rewarding outdoor destination in the state.
Park sprawls over roughly 1,153 acres boasting commanding vistas geological significance serene woodlands and plentiful family-friendly attractions quite famously.
It lies roughly 25 miles west of Madison making it a pretty accessible escape into scenic Driftless Area.
Blue Mound stands peculiarly as a monadnock with resistant rock remaining stubbornly after erosion has worn surrounding terrain extensively away.
Blue Mound lies within Driftless Area largely untouched by glaciers during last Ice Age preserving steep ridges and deep valleys remarkably.
Hard dolomite from Niagara Escarpment forms park's hill which has stubbornly resisted erosion leaving this isolated landform standing tall above surrounding terrain.
Rare panoramic views unfold remarkably from this elevation and unique habitats thrive here not typically found in nearby arid lowlands.
Visitors can enjoy pretty much unobstructed 360-degree views right across the region from two 40-foot observation towers on east and west mounds.
On clear days visibility extends remarkably far.<br>The Baraboo Range looms northwards under bright skies.<br>Rolling hills and farmlands of Driftless Area stretch lazily.<br>Madison cityscape glimmers in eastern distance.<br>Even Iowa's terrain creeps into view westward sometimes.<br>Orientation panels on each tower facilitate identification of various landmarks and natural features nearby.
Blue Mound State Park features over 20 miles of trails for hiking biking and skiing across varied terrain like dense hardwood forests and rocky ridges.
Notable trails comprise Flintrock Nature Trail a 1.3-mile scenic loop replete with educational signage highlighting local geology and peculiar flint deposits nearby.
Bent oak tree on Indian Marker Tree Trail stands 0.5 miles long featuring a landmark allegedly shaped by Native Americans nearby.
Pleasure Valley Trail stretches 2.5 miles through dense deep woods with fairly gentle slopes and gorgeous autumnal foliage.
Perfect for taking a leisurely stroll outdoors amidst serene surroundings on a calm day preferably.
Weeping Rock Trail leads down into a secluded glade with water seeping slowly over verdant rocks in a profoundly serene atmosphere.
Walnut Hollow and Willow Springs trails offer diverse hiking experiences amidst woodland surroundings and damp hollows with Ridgeview winding through dry ridges.
Several trails remain open in winter for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing amidst frozen landscapes under gloomy skies fairly regularly.
Cyclists converge on Blue Mound State Park eagerly seeking thrills on Military Ridge Trail renowned for rugged mountain biking trails.
Technical singletrack trails there are super challenging pretty much statewide.
Volunteers built and maintained these trails which snake through hilly terrain with steep climbs fast swooping descents and rocky root-filled paths.
Military Ridge State Trail runs south of the park for casual riders.
A 40-mile trail made of crushed limestone follows old railway bed stretching quite irregularly from Dodgeville towards Fitchburg.
A short access path leads from park into this regional trail making it super convenient for campers and day visitors alike.77 family campsites with electrical hookups are available alongside 13 hike-in sites for Military Ridge Trail users under dense foliage.<br>A rustic cabin with electricity heat and screened porch is designed for visitors having disabilities.<br>Sites are spaced far apart for maximum privacy in a heavily wooded area.
Amenities comprise flush toilets and showers alongside drinking water sales of firewood and a dump station for recreational vehicles.
Reservations for sites can be made pretty easily during peak season which typically spans May through October somehow.
Blue Mound state park boasts a full-size outdoor pool and splash pad making it uniquely Wisconsin's sole park with such a facility.
Pool area encompasses lap swimming space and shallow zones for youngsters alongside zero-depth entry splash pad featuring lift chairs for accessibility.
It operates seasonally becoming hectic during long summer days.
Multiple picnic areas exist with shelters and charcoal grills offering pretty views.
Upper Shelter near east observation tower provides panoramic overlook often utilized for boisterous family reunions and sundry group events under bright sunny skies.
Nature Programs and Events unfold vibrantly in the park with guided treks through rugged terrain and gnarly woodland paths.<br>Fiery geology talks mesmerize crowds at dusk.<br>Campfire programs burst into song around nightfall at an outdoor amphitheater under star-studded skies.<br>Annual events like Candlelight Ski and Hike illuminate wintry trails with lanterns and serve rich fireside cocoa to bundled-up revelers.<br>Music on the Mound pulses with local musicians in a frenetic summer concert series.<br>A small center showcases rugged natural history exhibits about flora and fauna in the Driftless Area and bygone Native American presence.
Elevation brings variation in terrain fostering a rich diversity of flora and fauna quite remarkably across varied landscapes.
Forest comprises mostly oak and hickory trees with some maple and walnut trees growing rather densely nearby quite old walnut trees.
Wildlife abundant in park environs includes white-tailed deer and red foxes often spotted alongside raccoons and wild turkeys foraging nearby.<br>Various songbirds inhabit areas with woodpeckers and owls nesting quietly.<br>During spring open areas burst with vibrant purple coneflowers and black-eyed Susans.<br>Columbine blooms amidst summer greenery under sunny skies.
Snowy escapades abound in frozen parklands boasting myriad groomed trails for classic and skate skiing with scattered warming huts.<br>Permits are required for snowshoeing on specific designated paths only.<br>Certain walking loops remain open throughout year for exploring on foot.<br>A super popular Candlelight Ski & Hike event happens in late January or early February featuring illuminated trails and roaring bonfires and refreshments.
Blue Mound State Park boasts exceptionally accessible amenities including campsites and cabins with paved paths snaking through major attractions.<br>Wheelchair-accessible observation decks offer panoramic vistas.<br>A pool lift and splash pad exemplify universal design principles pretty well.<br>Picnic shelters and restrooms feature accessible layouts fairly nicely.<br>You'll find Blue Mound State Park at 4350 Mounds Park Rd in Blue Mounds.<br>It's open daily from 6 a.m.
till 11 p.m.
pretty much year-round.<br>A vehicle admission sticker is required and a separate trail pass is needed for biking and skiing enthusiasts.<br>This southern Wisconsin gem delivers surprisingly exceptional vistas and geological intrigue with well-maintained trails and family-centered facilities.
Beneath lantern-lit trees you can ski or hike among rugged limestone formations and cool off in swimming pools every season.
Its unique blend of natural elevation and Driftless Area ecology paired with top-notch facilities renders it a supremely rewarding outdoor destination in the state.
