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 IA...