The best hikes from bus stations around Appleton
4.5
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14
hikes
Bus station hiking trails around Appleton offer access to a diverse landscape shaped by the Fox River and its surrounding natural areas. The region features a mix of wooded hills, open fields, and restored prairies, alongside wetlands and riverfront paths. These trails provide opportunities to explore the varied ecosystems and geological features, including limestone outcroppings and glacial boulders. The presence of the Fox River is a defining characteristic, with many routes following its banks or offering views of its course.
β¦Last updated: July 23, 2026
11
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
10
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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5
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
3
hikers
4.30km
01:09
40m
40m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4
hikers
3.54km
00:55
20m
20m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
This swing bridge is the last large through-truss bridge on the Fox River. It was constructed in 1929 on concrete and stone and is still in use today.
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Telulah Park spans 27 acres and boasts a large pavilion, restrooms, drinking fountains, a soccer field, tennis courts, basketball courts, skateboard and roller blade courts, ADA playground equipment, a ball diamond, 18-hole disc golf, and cross-country skiing in the winter. The park is open to the public every day from 5 a.m. to 11 p.m.
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Appleton has three locks on the Lower Fox River, simply named Appleton Lock 1, Appleton Lock 2, and Appleton Lock 3.Β Appleton Lock 1 is visible here west of Oneida Street at the river's 31.7 mile marker, Lock 2 at the 31.5 mile marker, and Lock 3 at the 31.3 mile marker.
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The Fox River Paper Company Mills are also referred to as the Fox River Paper Company Historic District. Check out the Romanesque-styled Ravine/Rag Mills, the Italianate-styled flour Lincoln Mill, and the Italianate-styled Fox River Mill. Today, the buildings built from 1883 to 1915 are used as apartments, a hydroelectric canal, and a privately owned generating station.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many bus-accessible hiking trails are available around Appleton?
There are 17 bus-accessible hiking trails around Appleton featured in this guide. These routes offer a convenient way to explore the region's natural beauty without needing a car.
Are there easy hiking options for beginners or families accessible by bus?
Yes, the majority of the bus-accessible trails in Appleton are considered easy, with 14 routes suitable for beginners or families. An excellent option is the Appleton Swing Railroad Bridge loop from Appleton, which is just over 3.5 km and offers pleasant views.
What kind of natural landscapes can I expect to see on these bus-accessible hikes?
The bus-accessible hikes around Appleton offer a diverse range of natural landscapes. You can expect to see the picturesque Fox River, which flows through many areas, as well as lush parks, and potentially restored prairies. Some trails might even offer glimpses of wetlands or wooded areas, reflecting the varied ecosystems of the region.
Are there any longer, more challenging bus-accessible hikes for experienced hikers?
While most trails are easy, there are 3 moderate bus-accessible routes for those seeking a bit more challenge. One such option is the Appleton Swing Railroad Bridge β Telulah Park loop from Appleton, which spans over 8 kilometers and includes some elevation changes.
Can I find circular hiking routes that start and end at a bus station?
Yes, many of the bus-accessible routes in this guide are circular, allowing you to start and finish your hike at the same point, often conveniently located near a bus stop. For example, the Hiking loop from Lawrence University is a circular route of over 7 kilometers.
What are some interesting landmarks or attractions I can see along these bus-accessible trails?
Many trails offer views of local landmarks and natural features. You might encounter historical sites along the Fox River, or even repurposed structures like old railroad trestles. Notable attractions in the wider Appleton area include the Little Chute Windmill and the scenic Nelson Crossing. For a more extensive natural experience, High Cliff State Park, with its distinctive Lake Winnebago shoreline, is also nearby.
What do other hikers enjoy most about hiking in Appleton?
The komoot community highly rates the hiking experiences around Appleton, with an average score of 4.5 stars. Reviewers often praise the accessibility of the trails, the scenic views along the Fox River, and the variety of options suitable for different fitness levels, making it easy to enjoy nature right from the city.
Are there any bus-accessible trails that offer good viewpoints?
Yes, several trails provide excellent viewpoints, particularly those that follow the Fox River. The Appleton Swing Railroad Bridge β View of Appleton Lock 1 loop from Appleton offers specific views of the historic Lock 1, providing a unique perspective of the waterway and surrounding area.
What is the typical length of these bus-accessible hiking routes?
The bus-accessible hiking routes around Appleton vary in length, catering to different preferences. You can find shorter walks, such as the Hiking loop from Appleton at approximately 2.6 kilometers, up to longer moderate trails like the 8-kilometer Appleton Swing Railroad Bridge β Telulah Park loop from Appleton.
Are there opportunities to see wildlife on these trails?
Many of Appleton's natural areas, including those accessible by bus, are home to diverse wildlife. Along the Fox River, it's common to spot various bird species, including eagles. Nature preserves like Bubolz Nature Preserve and Heckrodt Wetland Reserve, though some may require a short additional journey from a bus stop, are known for their rich biodiversity and offer excellent opportunities for wildlife observation.
Most popular attractions around Appleton
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