Dane County Parks opened Phase 1 of the Lower Yahara River Trail to the public on August 27, 2017. This nearly 2.5-mile trail provides an off-road trail connection between the City of Madison and the Village of McFarland that didn’t previously exist. It includes the longest inland boardwalk bridge constructed solely for non-motorized transportation in North America! The mile-long bridge spans Lake Waubesa, connecting the Capital City Trail with McDaniel Park in the Village of McFarland. The bridge runs alongside an active railroad corridor and includes an accessible fishing pier, rest stops, and observation areas with picturesque views.
Phase 2 of the Lower Yahara River Trail between Fish Camp County Park and Lake Kegonsa State Park opened July 3, 2024. This 1.6-mile trail is a mix of boardwalk and paved trail which traverses over Door Creek along the northern shore of Lake Kegonsa. The trail connects to the Village of McFarland via a 2-mile on-road route.
The Lower Yahara River Trail is open to hiking and biking, and other forms of non-motorized transit - a trail pass is not required. Please note that pets are not allowed on boardwalks and bridges.
Approximately 2000’ of the Lower Yahara River Trail also serves as vehicle access to the Lake Farm County Park Group Camp. Some light vehicle traffic may be encountered on the trail when the group camp is in use. Motorists using the trail for group camp access must yield to bicycles and pedestrians.
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