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Governor Nelson State Park
4.5 ★★★★★ 863 Google reviews · Running trail in Waunakee, Wisconsin · Posted hours
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Not reported
- Distance
- 8 mi
- Shape
- Not reported
- Shade
- Not reported
- Access
- Posted hours
Confirmed from Governor Nelson 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.
Picturesque park featuring a beach on Lake Mendota, trails through woods & prairies, & a playground.
What runners say about Governor Nelson State Park
“Offers several miles of well-kept hiking trails and a beach/swimming area.”
“Beautiful and convenient day use park just outside Madison, scenic trails, a sandy beach, picnic spots and a boat launch make it perfect for families, hikers, and water lovers.”
“Nice place for a peaceful family weekend picnic within few mins from Madison And Sun Prairie.”
A lesser known state park with great views of Madison named after a remarkable public servant. The park is smaller than others in the state park system, but with its proximity to Madison, it is an easy visit with beautiful trails and stunning views across Lake Mendota. It is a great place for more solitary hikes.
There's lots of walking/hiking trails. There's a beautiful waterfront view with the capital building across the water. Plenty of photogenic spots for sure. There's a spot on the beach where pets can go swimming! There's tons of trees for shade, grills to cook out on, a pavilion, shower room & bathrooms.
There is a wide selection of trails. It's pet and kid friendly! During the off season it's rare you will run into other people, during peak season it can be very busy. A WI state park sticker is required. You can purchase a year or day pass at the park any time of year.
Pretty neat park on the outskirts of Madison! Offers several miles of well-kept hiking trails and a beach/swimming area. This park also has an AWESOME waterfront dog park/picnic area. No camping at Gov. Nelson State Park, but it offers a nice escape to nature for those who live in the city. 🌲
Trail conditions & character
“Beautiful and convenient day use park just outside Madison, scenic trails, a sandy beach, picnic spots and a boat launch make it perfect for families, hikers, and water lovers.”
“Nice place for a peaceful family weekend picnic within few mins from Madison And Sun Prairie.”
“There’s also a beach, pier, limited restrooms, boat launch, and plenty of parking.”
“This park also has an AWESOME waterfront dog park/picnic area.”
“Fairly flat with one section of rolling hills over a 3 mile excursion.”
“There's tons of trees for shade, grills to cook out on, a pavilion, shower room & bathrooms.”
Plan your run at Governor Nelson State Park
The practical stuff
- AccessPosted hours — posted hours below; park gates sometimes close earlier than the listing says
- Distance8 mi as reported — check whether that is one way or a round trip before you commit. Long enough for a real long run.
- ShadeNot reported. Assume some of it is exposed and carry water in summer.
- At the trailheadparking, restrooms — reported by runners
- DogsWelcome, per reviewers. Leash rules vary by park — the trailhead sign is the authority.
- Websitednr.wisconsin.gov
- Phone(608) 831-3005
- 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 |
Running trails near Waunakee
Other trails within easy driving distance — useful when this one is flooded, gated, or just not the run you had in mind today.
Walking Trail
5 ★★★★★ 2 reviews
Bolz Conservancy Park
4.5 ★★★★★ 8 reviews
Yahara Heights County Park
4.6 ★★★★★ 235 reviews
Large dog area and a trail network at this park featuring lake views.
