rice lake nature trail - whitewater, wi

Eons ago, after glaciers receded, two large ice blocks remained in what is now the southern portion of Kettle Moraine State Forest.
When the blocks melted, they left behind two deep kettle lakes, and a large wetland. Fast forward to the 20th century, when two dams were installed, in 1947, and 1954, and created both Rice Lake and Whitewater Lake.

You'll find Rice Lake Nature Trail near the entrance to Whitewater Lake Visitor Center and Campground.  Rice Lake spans 144 acres, and is 10 feet deep. The Nature Trail circles the entirety of Rice Lake.

Although the trail itself is less than a mile, some of the terrain is rather rocky and steep, but manageable.  Wildflowers and lake views please the eye, as birds sing overhead, bullfrogs sing below, and dragonflies buzz over the surface of the water. There's an elevated wildlife blind just off the path part-way through the trail.

The woodlands surrounding the lake are lush, and lovely. Peaceful, too.  Upon entry, I could swear I heard a Pileated Woodpecker call. But it was only the once. However, I spotted a nearby tree that looked as though a Pileated had done a bit of work on it. I like to think so, anyway. 
Either way, the trail is a worthy hike on a Sunday afternoon.  We stopped here after visiting the Flowing Well, an artesian spring well, nearby.
Also worth the trip.

A Wisconsin State Park sticker is required. Restrooms are available nearby at the Whitewater Lake Visitor Center and Campground. 
​Hunting is prohibited.
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Location: 7950 State Park Drive, Whitewater, WI (Walworth County)
​For more information, click here. Download Map here.