Things To Do

HIKING
There are 5 miles of trails at the Horicon Marsh State Wildlife Area that offer hiking through woodlots, planted prairies and onto the marsh. Trails are all of easy grade, and relatively flat but are un-surfaced . Surface material is mowed grass and gravel and is not readily accessible by wheelchair or stroller.

Click Here For More Hiking Information

Click Here To Download & Print Hiking Map

BIRDING
With 300 species of birds having been recorded on Horicon Marsh, year-round opportunities exist for observing and enjoying a great variety of birds. Horicon Marsh has long been recognized as one of the
top birding sites in the upper Midwest. Most birders visit the marsh during the spring and fall migrations,
but even at these times of the year the variety of birds that may be present can readily change every
week or so.

If you want to see the greatest possible variety of birds, you will need to visit several times throughout
the year. If that isn't possible, then consider coming in spring between late March to the end of May or
in September and October when the migration is at its peak for many species. Among the best
opportunities for birding is during the annual Horicon Marsh Bird Festival
(see horiconmarshbirdfestival.com).

Knowing where to go on such a vast wildlife area can be another challenge for many visitors. However,
we have tried to make the easy by providing information on locations and access to the best birding hotspots by going to: http://www.dnr.state.wi.us/org/land/wildlife/wildlife_areas/horicon/hot.htm

CANOEING
To explore Horicon Marsh by canoe is one of the finest ways to experience the marsh and its wildlife.
Keep in mind that you are a visitor in an environment that wildlife calls home -- treat it with respect!
Please be advised that although the marsh offers many opportunities, there are some necessary restrictions.

Click Here For Information On Canoeing

BIKING
The Wild Goose State Trail (WGST), Wisconsin’s first “cooperative” State trail, is a multi-use recreation
trail located in Dodge and Fond du Lac Counties on an abandoned Chicago and Northwestern railroad corridor. The trail is owned by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, while Dodge and
Fond du Lac Counties develop, maintain and operate the trail.

Click Here For Information On Biking

HUNTING
The 32,000 acre Horicon Marsh is divided into the Horicon Marsh State Wildlife Area (managed by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources) and the Horicon National Wildlife Refuge
(managed by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service). The two areas have different hunting regulations and different season dates. You are responsible for knowing and abiding by these regulations.

Click Here For Information On Hunting

FISHING
The Rock River supports fine fishing opportunities for many people. Northern pike, panfish, and other
species are to be found in the river and channels of the marsh. When carp were introduced into
Wisconsin waters, they invariably found their way into the marsh. Control measures are in effect in
order to reduce the carp and maintain good populations of more desirable species.

Click Here For Information On Fishing

TRAPPING
Abundant muskrat populations are kept in check through a regulated trapping program. They and other furbearers are trapped via special contracts.

Click Here For Information On Trapping