Rainbow Springs Lake via Mukwonago River Trail

The trail is located within the Mukwonago River Unit of the Kettle Moraine State Forest. Parking is typically available at designated areas within the unit. Since the property was once a country club, some remnants of paved drives now serve as walking trails, which can also guide you to access points.

Yes, the Rainbow Spring Lake Loop is considered an easy trail, making it suitable for beginners and families. It features relatively flat terrain with no significant elevation gain, and the path is well-marked and maintained.

The Kettle Moraine State Forest generally allows dogs on trails, but they must be kept on a leash. It's always a good idea to check the latest regulations on the Wisconsin DNR website before your visit.

The trail is beautiful year-round. During spring and summer, the open meadows burst with wildflowers, attracting butterflies. Fall offers vibrant foliage, and winter allows for activities like snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. The property is open for hiking year-round.

No, currently there is no admission fee or park sticker required to access the Mukwonago River Unit of the Kettle Moraine State Forest, where this trail is located.

You'll experience diverse landscapes, including dense woodlands with oak, maple, and pine trees, and open meadows that are vibrant with wildflowers in warmer months. A highlight is the crystal-clear waters of Rainbow Spring Lake. The trail also incorporates remnants of former paved drives from its past as a country club.

The area is rich in biodiversity. You might spot white-tailed deer, red foxes, and various amphibians and reptiles, especially near Rainbow Spring Lake. It's also an excellent spot for birdwatching, with Great Blue Herons and waterfowl common. The Mukwonago River watershed is known for its unique flora, including rare orchids in its calcareous fens.

Yes, the primary route is often referred to as the Rainbow Spring Lake Loop, offering a circular path around the lake and through the surrounding natural areas.

Absolutely! The property is open year-round, and the trail is suitable for winter activities such as hiking, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing, offering a different perspective of its natural beauty.

This 970-acre property was once the site of the Rainbow Springs Country Club, a large hotel and golf course that never fully opened. In 2012, it was acquired by the Wisconsin DNR and transformed into a public natural area. The former golf course now blooms with wildflowers, and the Mukwonago River watershed is recognized for its outstanding resource waters and high biodiversity.

Yes, the route also passes through sections of the Rainbow Spring Golf Resort trail, which makes up about 42% of the path.