Lake Ripley is a natural glacial kettle lake region in Jefferson County, Wisconsin, known for its unique natural features and diverse landscapes. Formed over 12,000 years ago, the lake is recognized as a "Priority Lake" due to its ecological significance. The area features the 167-acre Lake Ripley District Preserve, with restored prairies and wetlands that provide vital habitats for wildlife. These varied terrains make Lake Ripley a relevant destination for several outdoor activities like hiking and mountain biking.
16
Routes
4.6
(11)
Average rating
266
People visited

1.42km
00:22
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

76.0km
19:20
200m
210m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

2
hikers
4.08km
01:03
20m
20m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

2
hikers
3.36km
00:53
20m
20m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.5
(2)
43
riders
8.64km
00:45
80m
80m
Easy mountain bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Suitable for all skill levels.

4.7
(7)
98
riders
12.9km
01:01
80m
80m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Advanced riding skills necessary.

64
riders
14.9km
01:04
130m
130m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Advanced riding skills necessary.

9
riders
6.34km
00:34
80m
80m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Advanced riding skills necessary.
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8
riders
29.4km
01:54
130m
130m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

8
riders
8.27km
00:32
30m
30m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

4.5
(2)
8
riders
26.9km
02:20
60m
60m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

6
riders
8.47km
00:32
20m
20m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Lake Ripley offers opportunities for hiking and mountain biking. The region features a diverse network of trails catering to various outdoor enthusiasts. Komoot users have rated routes in the area an average of 4.61 out of 5 stars.
The Lake Ripley District Preserve is a 167-acre natural prairie and wetland area. It features restored shallow and deep-water marshes, providing sanctuaries for wetland-dependent species. Upland areas have been restored to native tall-grass prairie.
Yes, the Lake Ripley area offers an extensive network of hiking trails. The Lake Ripley District Preserve includes a nature trail with interpretive signs and an elevated boardwalk. For more information, refer to the Hiking around Lake Ripley guide.
The Lake Ripley area provides mountain biking trails ranging from easy to difficult and intermediate/difficult. Nearby trails like the Cam-Rock and Glacial Drumlin State Trail are also accessible. Explore options with the MTB Trails around Lake Ripley guide.
Yes, Lake Ripley offers easy hiking options suitable for various skill levels. The nature trail within the Lake Ripley District Preserve is an accessible choice. For specific routes, consult the Easy hikes around Lake Ripley guide.
Lake Ripley is a natural glacial kettle lake with a maximum depth of 44 feet (13 meters). It is recognized as a "Priority Lake" due to its ecological significance. The Lake Ripley District Preserve features restored prairies, wetlands, and an observation deck.
The Lake Ripley District Preserve's restored marshes serve as vital sanctuaries for wetland-dependent species. Visitors may observe frogs, turtles, cranes, wood ducks, and herons. A hilltop observation deck provides panoramic views of the marsh for wildlife viewing.
The wider Lake Ripley area offers an extensive network of more than 83 trails. These trails span over 838 miles (1,348 kilometers) and cater to activities such as hiking, biking, and mountain biking.
Komoot offers several guides for the Lake Ripley region. These include Hiking around Lake Ripley, Easy hikes around Lake Ripley, and MTB Trails around Lake Ripley.
Lake Ripley is a recognized destination on komoot, with more than 240 visitors sharing their experiences. Routes in the region have received an average rating of 4.61 out of 5 stars from 9 ratings.
Lake Ripley supports a variety of fish species. These include Panfish, Largemouth Bass, Northern Pike, and Walleye. The lake's water is moderately clear, contributing to a healthy aquatic environment.
The Lake Ripley Management District can be contacted via their official website at lakeripley.org. They can also be reached by phone at (608) 423-4537 or (608) 445-4536.

