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Routes
Hiking trails & Routes
United States
Wisconsin
Outagamie County
Little Chute

Heritage Parkway Trail and Nelson Family Heritage Crossing

Routes
Hiking trails & Routes
United States
Wisconsin
Outagamie County
Little Chute

Heritage Parkway Trail and Nelson Family Heritage Crossing

Easy

2.6

(12)

85

hikers

Heritage Parkway Trail and Nelson Family Heritage Crossing

01:09

4.43km

20m

Hiking

Hike the easy 2.8-mile Heritage Parkway Trail and Nelson Family Heritage Crossing, enjoying scenic Fox River views and accessible paved path

Last updated: February 26, 2026

Tips

Includes a movable bridge

Check opening times.

After 804 m for 11 m

Waypoints

A

Start point

Parking

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1

1.93 km

Fox River

Highlight • River

The Fox River flows 202 miles (325 km) from the Halbach Swamp in Wisconsin to the Illinois River, passing lots of towns and communities on its way. You can bike …

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2

2.92 km

Nelson Crossing

Highlight • Bridge

The Nelson Family Heritage Crossing is a recent addition to the city of Appleton, officially opening on June 18, 2021. This 1,100-foot bicycle and pedestrian bridge is an important car-free …

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B

4.43 km

End point

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Way Types & Surfaces

Way Types

4.04 km

392 m

Surfaces

3.53 km

886 m

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Elevation

Elevation

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Weather

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Today

Friday 29 May

28°C

7°C

0 %

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Max wind speed: 9.0 km/h

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This route was planned by komoot.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the terrain like on the Heritage Parkway Trail and Nelson Family Heritage Crossing?

Both the Heritage Parkway Trail and the Nelson Family Heritage Crossing feature entirely paved surfaces. The Heritage Parkway Trail is an asphalt path, described as flat with no obstacles, making it very accessible. The Nelson Family Heritage Crossing is also a paved pedestrian and bicycle bridge, with paved trails leading to and from it.

Is the trail suitable for beginners or families with young children?

Yes, this route is ideal for beginners and families. Both the Heritage Parkway Trail and the Nelson Family Heritage Crossing are characterized by their easy difficulty, paved surfaces, and minimal elevation changes. The Nelson Family Heritage Crossing is specifically described as family-friendly, universally accessible, and handicap accessible.

Are dogs allowed on the Heritage Parkway Trail and Nelson Family Heritage Crossing?

Yes, the Heritage Parkway Trail is dog-friendly. However, dogs must be kept on a leash at all times to ensure the safety and enjoyment of all trail users.

What are the best times of year to visit this trail?

The trail offers scenic views that change with the seasons, making it enjoyable year-round. The Nelson Family Heritage Crossing is open all year. For birdwatching, spring and fall migrations can be particularly rewarding. The bridge is also lit during dusk hours, allowing for pleasant evening strolls.

Where can I park to access the Heritage Parkway Trail and Nelson Family Heritage Crossing?

The Heritage Parkway Trail connects Little Chute's Island Park and Heesakker Park. You can typically find parking at these parks to access the trail. For specific parking directions, it's advisable to check local municipal websites like kaukauna.gov for the most up-to-date information.

Are there any entrance fees or permits required to use the trail or visit Heesakker Park?

Based on available information, there are no specific entrance fees or permits mentioned for accessing the Heritage Parkway Trail, the Nelson Family Heritage Crossing, or Heesakker Park. These are generally public recreational facilities. However, it's always a good idea to check the official Kaukauna or Little Chute municipal websites for any updates on park regulations or fees.

What can I see along the route?

The trail offers scenic views along the Fox River, with opportunities for birdwatching. The Nelson Crossing provides a unique perspective from the middle of the river, connecting the downtowns of Little Chute and Kaukauna. You might also spot various wildlife, especially birds, given the riverside location.

Are there restrooms or other amenities available along the trail?

Seasonal restrooms are available at Heesakker Park, which is connected by the Heritage Parkway Trail. Additionally, recent improvements to the Nelson Family Heritage Crossing include the addition of benches and garbage receptacles on the Kaukauna side, providing convenient spots to rest and dispose of waste.

Does this route connect to other trails?

Yes, the Heritage Parkway Trail is connected to other trails, offering opportunities for longer outings. This route specifically incorporates sections of the Heritage Parkway Trail (59%), the Nelson Family Heritage Crossing (50%), and the Fox Cities Paper Trail (67%).

What is the total distance and estimated time to complete the full route?

The full route, combining the Heritage Parkway Trail and Nelson Family Heritage Crossing, covers approximately 4.43 kilometers (about 2.75 miles). It typically takes around 1 hour and 9 minutes to complete at a hiking pace.

Is the Nelson Family Heritage Crossing accessible in the evenings?

Yes, the Nelson Family Heritage Crossing is lit during dusk hours, allowing for safe and enjoyable use into the evening. This makes it a great option for a sunset stroll or an after-dinner walk.

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