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Rice Lake Nature Trail
4.6 ★★★★★ 27 Google reviews · Running trail in Whitewater, Wisconsin · Hours vary
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Natural surface
- Loop distance
- 50 mi
- Shape
- Loop
- Shade
- Not reported
- Access
- Not reported
Confirmed from Rice Lake Nature Trail'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 Rice Lake Nature Trail
“This is a first rate scenic spot on the Ice Age Trail.”
A nice short hike around a little lake with views of Whitewater Lake as well. A little rocky in areas, but pretty easy otherwise. Make sure to spray repellent, as this trail is heavily wooded and with the marsh it was buggy.
This is a first rate scenic spot on the Ice Age Trail. The trail takes you around Rice Lake and along Whitewater Lake. This seems to be a little known, obscure place within the Kettle Moraine South Unit. But it is very much worth seeing. Seems to overlap with the Ice Age Trail.
Nice little loop. Trail is narrow but manageable. Lots of turtles were out sunning when we went.
Fun little nature hike, we saw a bald eagle on a tree just before it took off over the lake from about 10 yards, and tons of turtles. This trail also has a viewing platform and has access to the Ice Age Trail.
Trail conditions & character
“A nice short hike around a little lake with views of Whitewater Lake as well.”
“Short trail that is a bit technical and awkward at times, but it does offer ample parking and connection to the Ice Age Trail in the area.”
“We happened to go when there was a 50-mile trail run happening (lol) but everyone was so nice and we were able to hike and cheer on the runners as they passed.”
Plan your run at Rice Lake Nature Trail
The practical stuff
- AccessHours vary — hours are not posted for this trail, so check before an early or late run
- SurfaceNatural surface — easiest on the joints and the most fun, but expect roots, rocks and mud after rain
- Loop distance50 mi back to where you parked. Long enough for a real long run.
- ShadeNot reported. Assume some of it is exposed and carry water in summer.
Running trails near Whitewater
Other trails within easy driving distance — useful when this one is flooded, gated, or just not the run you had in mind today.
Kettle Moraine State Forest
4.7 ★★★★★ 183 reviews
State park featuring a lake, picnic tables, and a public restroom, plus trails.
Bluff Creek
4.7 ★★★★★ 25 reviews
Natureland Park
4.8 ★★★★★ 231 reviews
Relaxed park featuring spring-fed water and numerous walking trails.
