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NatureParks & Gardens

The Silver Lake Trails In Wisconsin Take You From The Forest To The Beach And Back

Silver Lake County Park in southeastern Wisconsin offers scenic trails and one of the best beaches in the region.

Published Jun 14, 2023

Written by 

Ben Jones

In southeastern Wisconsin, there’s a nature hike that comes with a big bonus - one of the best beaches in the region. Silver Lake County Park is a scenic Wisconsin park that’s a destination for people who love exploring the outdoors. The Silver Lake Trails at the park are some of the most popular in the county – here’s what you need to know.

Silver Lake County Park is a recreational area that spans about 260 acres. It’s in Salem, and it's an easy drive from places like Kenosha, Racine and Milwaukee - so it’s a popular urban escape.

A serene lakeside view framed by trees under a clear blue sky with a few clouds.
David Kamholtz/Alltrails - Aug. 5, 2022

Silver Lake is the centerpiece of the park, and many visitors enjoy swimming, fishing, boating, and kayaking on its waters. It covers 516 acres, and it’s 44-feet-deep.

A serene lake scene with a clear blue sky and wispy clouds, framed by grass and a few trees on the shore.
Alltrails / Karla Serna

The lake is amazing, but there’s plenty to enjoy on land. The Silver Lake Trails wind through the park’s wooded areas and provide opportunities for hiking, nature walks, and birdwatching.

A forest scene with green foliage and two large white mushrooms partially hidden among the leaves and underbrush.
Alltrails / Nick Everson

The trail features a 3.3 mile loop that winds through a woodland and travels over some hills. It’s not a rugged and remote hike – it’s a maintained trail that’s mostly gravel and dirt. But it’s a beautiful hike.

A serene forest path lined with trees and covered in fallen leaves, surrounded by autumn foliage.
Alltrails / Joel Jahimiak

These trails offer a chance to explore the natural beauty of the park and observe the local flora and fauna. At the end of the trail, you can step onto one of the best sand beaches in the area.

Lush greenery in the foreground with a serene lake and distant trees under a clear blue sky.
Alltrails / Margaret Muske

The beach has a designated swimming area, so on warm days, you may want to take a dip. Or, just relax in the soft sand along Silver Lake.

A sunny day in a park with green grass, a gravel path, and tall trees under a blue sky with fluffy clouds.
Alltrails / Shawn Davis

Leashed dogs are permitted on the trail and mountain bikes also use some of the park’s trails. Learn more about the Silver Lake Trails on the Kenosha County website. I spent a weekend in Kenosha County recently and was impressed by how much there was to see and do. Need some more travel inspiration? Here are the top attractions in Wisconsin.

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