Fabulous Fox! Water Trail

Mary Beth Nolan

The Fox River starts in Waukesha County, Wisconsin and flows for approximately 200 miles to the confluence of the Illinois River in Ottawa, Illinois. Part of the river, known as the Fabulous Fox! Water Trail, is designated as a national water trail, part of the National Trails System.

The Fabulous Fox! Water Trail provides opportunities for many different recreation opportunities including paddling, swimming, ice skating, camping, fishing, hunting, and wildlife observing. Recreationists can paddle the 158 miles of trail through gorgeous landscapes including prairies, forests, farms, and bluffs. The trail also includes three state parks and intersects with many land-based trail systems.

The trail flows across two states, connecting small Midwest towns and the metropolitan regions of Milwaukee and Chicago. Unlike many trails, the Fabulous Fox! Water Trail creates space for residents and tourists alike to enjoy diverse landscapes from prairies, forests and bluffs to villages and cities. Over 70 public locations along the trail provide access to vibrant communities with their own cultural and historical amenities. The trail acts as a conduit for the diverse populations to connect with others and benefits local economies along the river.

Karen Miller

Partners along the entire length of the trail support its maintenance and actively work to connect the surrounding communities. Many partners coordinate with landowners to increase access to the trail so everyone can enjoy it. Additionally, there are partner organizations that focus on educating visitors on all topics. From how to paddle safely and fish from a kayak to the history of the region including the impact of Indigenous tribes and architecturally significant buildings, to the environmental impacts on the river and how to be a good steward, anyone can learn more about where they recreate.