Hiking Kettle Moraine State Forest (WI) - Northern Unit [Parnell Tower Trail]

 

Where is Parnell Tower?

Parnell Tower is located about an hour north of Milwaukee, near Plymouth Wisconsin. The trailhead is located on County Highway U (Kettle Moraine Scenic Drive).

Why visit Parnell Tower?

The top of the 60-foot Parnell Tower is the highest point in the Kettle Moraine State Forest. The observation tower offers scenic views of surrounding farmland, geological features created by glaciers, and the city of Sheboygan. Visibility on a clear day extends in excess of 20 miles.


What should one expect on the Parnell Tower Trail?

Experienced hikers will find the Parnell Tower Trail to be a relatively easy hike. Those who do not hike often may consider this a hike of moderate difficulty. There are quite a few stairs leading up to the tower and a couple of inclines that could be viewed as rather steep along the trail. A small portion of the trail overlaps with the Ice Age National Scenic Trail. For a longer hike, consider parking at the Highway 67 parking lot for the IAT, which is about 2 miles from the intersection of the IAT and the Parnell Tower Trail.

Trail surfaces are primarily dirt. There are rocks and roots along the trail, so proper hiking footwear and maintaining an awareness of where you place your feet are recommended. With that said, you will be stepping between sticks and stones - not walking on rock piles, as can be the case on other trails. 

There were a few downed trees across the trail on my most recent visit, but none of these were particularly difficult or hazardous to navigate over (or around). The trail was fairly muddy, but this visit followed approximately a week of steady rains. In ordinary conditions, I would not consider the mud to be a serious factor. 


The trail is somewhat narrow, in sections. During the summer, the trail may become a bit overgrown in these places, so you may want to consider wearing pants, even during warmer weather. This was not necessary on my recent fall visit. You will almost certainly want to come equipped with insect repellent during the warmer months. When hiking during October, there were almost no bugs to be found on the trail.

Vault toilets and drinking water are available at the trailhead. The area around the trailhead also offers picnic tables and grills. 

Are pets allowed on the Parnell Tower Trail?

Pets are allowed on the Parnell Tower Trail as long as they are kept on a leash no longer than 8 feet at all times.


Is camping allowed along the Parnell Tower Trail?

There is a backpacking shelter along the trail route, on the section that intersects the Ice Age Trail. Reservations for the shelter must be made in advance. 

Information regarding other camping opportunities within the North Unit of Kettle Moraine State Forest, including an overview of the six backpacking shelters, can be found here.  

Reservations can be made here. Note: If you are looking to reserve one of the backpacking shelters, be sure to select "Backpack," as opposed to "Campsite."


Is there a fee to hike the Parnell Tower Trail? 

The Kettle Moraine State Forest - North Unit does require a vehicle admission fee. The daily fee is currently $8 for vehicles with Wisconsin license plates and $11 for vehicles with out-of-state plates. Annual Wisconsin State Parks vehicle admission stickers can be purchased for $28 or $38, respectively.  

Check out the YouTube video! 


 

 

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