The Park Next Door - Hiking Safely During Hunting Season 2023 Edition

Autumn along the trails at Carver-Roehl County Park in Clinton, WI - Rock County

hiking safely during hunting season - 2024 Edition

Fall is a spectacular season in Wisconsin, perfect for hiking. It's not too cold, and autumn color is bold and beautiful. But autumn also coincides with hunting season, so it's important to keep some safety measures in mind when on the trails. Personally, I try to stick to hikes in locations that prohibit hunting during this time. I just feel more comfortable not having to worry about it. Between local and county parks, nature preserves and trails, there are plenty of options for fall color walks. I'm providing a gallery of some of my favorites where hunting is prohibited.

Although there are exceptions, as a general rule, I would expect that any State Natural Area or State Wildlife Area allows some type of hunting. If you plan to hike in one of these areas, it's best to make blaze orange a wardrobe staple. Even some of our State Parks allow hunting in certain areas. It's good to check with the park office, or the park website to be clear. Some State Natural Areas in the Milwaukee area are actually owned by Milwaukee County, thus, they often prohibit hunting. Most of these areas should have signage on-site that indicates what activities are allowed.

Wisconsin has such a wide array of wonderful natural spaces, there is plenty for hunters and non-hunters alike. If your usual hiking spot is hosting hunters during the fall, take the opportunity to try somewhere new. And don't forget to check the Wisconsin Fall Color Report to see where the colors are peaking in your area. Happy Hiking!

A bit of blaze orange is a smart choice on the autumn nature trails.

Hunting Season Hiking - Some Safety Tips

Be Familiar With Hunting Season Dates in your area - in general, Archery season runs from September 14, 2024 - January 5, 2025, and in some areas through January 31, 2025.

Gun season start dates vary depending on the categories. They start as early as October 5, and can run through December 1, 2024, with stipulations. Check with the Wisconsin DNR for more specifics. Keep in mind that dates and regulations can vary by county.

It's best to hike at local and neighborhood parks and trails during this time. Many nature preserves and conservancies allow hunting on their properties, so it's best to check before going.

However, if you're going to hike at locations where hunting season is observed, be sure to hike mid-day, when you will be most visible, wear bright colors (blaze orange is tried and true), and stay on marked trails. Be sure not to drown out the sounds of your surroundings with earbuds or headphones. You'll want to be able to hear any hunting type of activity in the area. For even more detailed hunting schedules and regulations, visit this WDNR page.

Protect your pets. If walking with your dog, be sure to keep it on-leash. Even better, take it to one of your neighborhood dog parks instead. See our dog park special feature for some options. ~