Outdoor Adventures

Whether you're looking for a long weekend away or just a few hours to satisfy your adventurous side, Madison, Wisconsin offers a wealth of opportunities to enjoy the great outdoors.

It's hard to go anywhere in the area without finding one of our five lakes. As a result, there are countless ways to play in and on the water. Visit Paddleboard Specialists to try a new trend: stand-up paddleboarding. Or, head to Wingra Boats to rent a canoe, kayak, rowboat, paddleboat or sailboat and set sail on nearby Lake Wingra.

If getting up, up and away is more your idea of an adventurous getaway, Gentle Breezes offers hot air balloon rides over Madison and Dane County in celebration of a birthday, wedding day--or any day! You can also get a bird's-eye view of Lake Mendota and the capital city via Biplane Rides of America, four-passenger, open-cockpit biplane rides that take off from Morey Airport in Middleton.

Prefer to keep your feet firmly planted on the ground when you're outdoors? You're sure to enjoy the more than 200 miles of trails that wind throughout Madison for biking and hiking including the renowned UW Arboretum, the Capital City Trail and at Devil's Lake.

Of course, there are also countless opportunities to experience wildlife the Wisconsin way. The International Crane Foundation is located in our great state, and offers a guided tour of the property plus a chance to learn about conservation efforts for more than 15 species of cranes. Fishing is another way to connect with the outdoors--just make sure you have a fishing license from the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources before you cast your line!