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Governor Dodge State Park
4.7 ★★★★★ 2,912 Google reviews · Running trail in Dodgeville, Wisconsin · Posted hours
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Not reported
- Distance
- Not reported
- Shape
- Not reported
- Shade
- Not reported
- Access
- Posted hours
Confirmed from Governor Dodge State Park's own listing, the park or land manager's website, and runner reviews. Blank cells mean we could not verify that fact — we would rather say "not reported" than invent one. There is no Easy / Moderate / Hard rating on this page on purpose: a one-word difficulty score tells you nothing about whether a trail suits your run. Surface, distance, shade and hours do.
5,350 acres featuring sandstone bluffs, 2 swimming lakes, hiking, off-road biking trails & more.
What runners say about Governor Dodge State Park
“The beaches are clean, the water is refreshing, and you can even rent boats or canoes if you didn’t bring your own gear.”
“Covering over 5,000 acres of stunning landscapes, this park offers something for everyone, whether you’re an adventurer or just looking to relax in nature.”
“You’ll find plenty of scenic overlooks and peaceful spots to soak in the views, especially if you hike up to Stephens' Falls, a picturesque waterfall that’s easy to reach.”
LOVE this state park!! I’d say it’s probably one of the best in all of Wisconsin! Plenty of hiking trails, 2 small lakes with rental options for kayaks, canoe, rowboat, paddle boards, etc. prices are very reasonable! Beaches are great, and kid friendly with food options at the concession stands.
🐝 Governor Dodge State Park in Wisconsin is an outdoor paradise that you absolutely need to visit! Covering over 5,000 acres of stunning landscapes, this park offers something for everyone, whether you’re an adventurer or just looking to relax in nature.
Beautiful state park. We went to see Stephen’s Falls. The climb down to the bottom is very steep, but has a railing. There are no actual steps, but just stones and rocks, so watching your footing is essential. The trail here is dirt, mud and rocks. You cannot bring a stroller or wheelchair down/up this waterfall trail.
Loved in the area for years and just recently got to Governor Dodge State Park. I only went on the Lost Canyon Trail and back around to my vehicle on parts of a couple of other trails. Restrooms are very clean and well kept. The trails themselves are well maintained and spacious.
Trail conditions & character
“Covering over 5,000 acres of stunning landscapes, this park offers something for everyone, whether you’re an adventurer or just looking to relax in nature.”
“The kids loved that the dogs had a separate beach and they could watch them.”
“You’ll find plenty of scenic overlooks and peaceful spots to soak in the views, especially if you hike up to Stephens' Falls, a picturesque waterfall that’s easy to reach.”
“Biking from the camp area would be too hilly for my family so we drove down.”
“Water and a restroom is about 1/2 mile from the site so plan accordingly.”
“You cannot bring a stroller or wheelchair down/up this waterfall trail.”
Plan your run at Governor Dodge State Park
The practical stuff
- AccessPosted hours — posted hours below; park gates sometimes close earlier than the listing says
- DistanceNot reported. Trail systems often quote total path mileage rather than a single loop, so measure the route you actually want before you drive out.
- ShadeNot reported. Assume some of it is exposed and carry water in summer.
- At the trailheadrestrooms — reported by runners
- DogsWelcome, per reviewers. Leash rules vary by park — the trailhead sign is the authority.
- Stroller / wheelchairReported as smooth and step-free enough for a running stroller or a chair.
- Websitednr.wi.gov
- Phone+1 608-935-2315
- Social Instagram · Facebook
Hours
| Monday | 6 am–11 pm |
| Tuesday | 6 am–11 pm |
| Wednesday | 6 am–11 pm |
| Thursday | 6 am–11 pm |
| Friday | 6 am–11 pm |
| Saturday | 6 am–11 pm |
| Sunday | 6 am–11 pm |
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