East Bank Trail

Milwaukee is a bustling city on the shore of Lake Michigan. Lively, upbeat, and full of busy streets, it's no wonder so many want to get away to explore the serene nature that winds through the city. One of these places is the East Bank Trail, a small but unique area that is not only dog-friendly, it also allows a great place to picnic, walk, and fish.

Although the trail is a small 2-foot width, it still covers nearly a mile in distance with its crushed stone and asphalt face. Most people can find parking at the trail's entrance at Riverside Park. The park takes up over 70 acres of green space along the east shore of Milwaukee River, with amenities like restrooms, picnic tables, water fountains, and clean-up stations in the parking area.

After everything is taken care of, you and Fido can enter the pretty path that's surrounded by trees. At the beginning of the trail is a canoe and kayak boat launch for the river, a place also used for fishing thanks to its close river proximity. The trail continues south along the river's edge, past dense trees, marsh area, and open fields.

Aside from natural vegetation, you'll find a number of species that live in and around the trail like beavers, foxes, birds, flying squirrels, muskrats, and deer. There's a number of bird species as well, and bird guides are available at the park's visitor center. The trail continues under an urban bridge where you and Fido can get a sight of the downtown area of the city.

After a short period, you'll come to the end of the trail, a fork that leads to another trail with a bridge over the river, or onward to another path that connects to North Warren Avenue. It's easy to turn around and get back to your car, or continue on to another trail to explore more of the river. Whichever option you choose, you and Fido won't get enough or this serene and cool outdoor place and won't wait to come hike again!