Havenwoods State Forest: Winter Animal Tracking & Snowshoe Trails

About this adventure

As Wisconsin's only urban state forest, Havenwoods State Forest preserves 237 acres of grasslands, ponds, and hardwoods right in Milwaukee. It is one of the state's most accessible winter gems, requiring no vehicle admission pass or trail fees. Whenever four or more inches of snow blanket the forest, families can borrow snowshoes for free from the environmental education center. Kids can follow animal tracks in the fresh snow left by deer, red foxes, and wild turkeys. Inside the heated education center, children can explore hands-on exhibits with animal pelts, look through child-friendly microscopes, meet live resident snakes and turtles, and watch bird feeders through panoramic wildlife viewing windows. Family Experience & Accessibility: • Stroller Accessibility: Paved trail loops and wooden boardwalks are stroller and wheelchair accessible; education center has zero-step entries. • Nursing & Rest Spots: Warm education center provides quiet indoor seating overlooking bird feeding stations, with clean family restrooms and baby changing tables. • Age Suitability: All ages; lightweight youth snowshoes available for children starting around age 4. • Sensory Tips: Peaceful, low-traffic natural environment; indoor discovery room offers gentle lighting and tactile nature exhibits for sensory-friendly exploration.