Hiking Horicon Marsh State Wildlife Area


Where is Horicon Marsh State Wildlife Area located?

Horicon Marsh State Wildlife Area is located near the city of Horicon, in Dodge County, Wisconsin. Horicon is about an hour northwest of Milwaukee. The hiking trails are located off of Highway 28, with parking available at the DNR Service Center and International Education Center. 

There are also hiking trails located in the Horicon National Wildlife Refuge, which lies directly to the north of Horicon Marsh State Wildlife Area. The National Wildlife Refuge is run by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, while the State Wildlife Area is run by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources. Additionally, the Wild Goose State Trail runs just to the west. 


What should one expect on the trails at Horicon Marsh State Wildlife Area?

Horicon Marsh is the largest freshwater cattail marsh in the United States. There are five miles of hiking trails in the Horicon Marsh State Wildlife Area, which illustrate the three main wildlife habitats in Wisconsin: woodlands, wetlands, and grasslands. The trails are relatively easy, with trail surfaces consisting of mowed grass, gravel, or boardwalk.

You can expect to see a variety of birds in the Horicon Marsh State Wildlife area, including sparrows, orioles, and Mississippi Flyway geese.



Are pets allowed in the Horicon Marsh State Wildlife Area?

You may bring your dog to the Horicon Marsh State Wildlife Area. Your dog must be on a leash no longer than 8 feet. Please remember to pack out any waste you, or your dog, generate while on the trails!

Is camping allowed at Horicon Marsh State Wildlife Area?

Camping is not allowed at Horicon Marsh State Wildlife Area. Camping may be available at nearby Dodge County Parks (Derge Park or Ledge Park).  

Is there a fee for hiking at Horicon Marsh State Wildlife Area? 

There is no admission fee, parking fee, nor trail use fee at Horicon Marsh State Wildlife Area  



Wisconsin DNR Page: Includes link to trail map 

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service - Horicon National Wildlife Refuge 

 

Check out the YouTube video! 


 

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