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Mallard Lake
5 ★★★★★ 25 Google reviews · Running trail in Franklin, Wisconsin · Posted hours
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Not reported
- Distance
- Not reported
- Shape
- Not reported
- Shade
- Not reported
- Access
- Posted hours
Confirmed from Mallard Lake'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.
What runners say about Mallard Lake
“Really beautiful area with unique pathways going around and plenty of places to nature watch.”
“The cooling waters and the serene environs will soothe even the most frazzled spirit.”
This is a beautiful lake that has a waterfall. There is a walking trail all around it and lots of treed, but just fyi, no pets, no jogging, no fishing. It is very quiet and peacful.
A walk around Mallard Lake is about 1.5 miles of easy terrain. It's an enjoyable stroll through the woods with this small lake is clear view. The paths along the lake also provide access to the Wehr Nature Center. Park for free along Whitnall Park Drive or for a couple of dollars at the Wehr Nature Center.
Great place walk with the family. Only issue need some bathrooms to use
One of the great things about Franklin i enjoy. Been coming here for years. It used to be more dirt trails but over the years they have been building wood deck like walkways. There are memorials posted on the sides of the walkways.
Trail conditions & character
“Really beautiful area with unique pathways going around and plenty of places to nature watch.”
“The cooling waters and the serene environs will soothe even the most frazzled spirit.”
Plan your run at Mallard Lake
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 trailheadparking, restrooms — reported by runners
- Stroller / wheelchairReported as smooth and step-free enough for a running stroller or a chair.
- Websitewehrnaturecenter.com
- Phone+1 414-425-8550
- Social Instagram · Facebook
Hours
| Monday | 6 am–10 pm |
| Tuesday | 6 am–10 pm |
| Wednesday | 6 am–10 pm |
| Thursday | 6 am–10 pm |
| Friday | 6 am–10 pm |
| Saturday | 6 am–10 pm |
| Sunday | 6 am–10 pm |
Running trails near Franklin
Other trails within easy driving distance — useful when this one is flooded, gated, or just not the run you had in mind today.
Wehr Nature Center
4.7 ★★★★★ 223 reviews
Hiking and birding spot dotted with wildflowers, plus a waterfall and trails around a lake.
Whitnall Park
4.7 ★★★★★ 2,799 reviews
Wooded park offering a nature center with tours, botanical gardens, a golf course & walking trails.
Whitnall Park Waterfall
4.5 ★★★★★ 13 reviews
Mangan Woods
5 ★★★★★ 6 reviews
Root River Parkway South
4 ★★★★☆ 1 reviews
Access Trail
3.5 ★★★★☆ 2 reviews