Madison County Nature Trail

Dogs Leashed

Features Birding · Fall Colors · Fishing · Lake

If you are looking for an easy hike with outstanding scenery, look no further than the Madison County Nature Trail. This path loops around Sky Lake and includes highlights like a covered bridge, the State's largest and oldest Champion Winged Elm Tree, and several small fishing piers.

The park has picnic tables and accessible restrooms. Children under 16 years of age or seniors over 60 can fish Monday through Friday. There is a $3 fishing fee.

Located on Green Mountain, this path is a beautiful hike in any season. The loop heads around Sky Lake, passing in and out of the woods and at one point crossing a covered bridge at the southwest corner of the lake. There are benches and picnic spots along the path if you want to stop and soak in the scenery a bit more.

The path is especially scenic in the fall, when the changing autumn foliage is reflected in the still waters of Sky Lake. The covered bridge makes a particularly photogenic spot so be sure to bring your camera. The path is also lovely in the spring and early summer and the azaleas, dogwoods, and a variety of other wildflowers are in bloom.

Elm, dogwood, azalea.