Picnic Point: A Serene Escape in Madison

Getting There

• Walking

  If you are starting from the Wisconsin State Capitol, head west on State Street. Continue straight until you reach the intersection with University Avenue. Turn right onto University Avenue and proceed for about 1.5 miles. As you approach the University of Wisconsin-Madison campus, look for the entrance to the Lakeshore Nature Preserve on your left. Enter the preserve and follow the path that leads towards Picnic Point, which is approximately a 15-minute walk from the entrance.

• Public Transit (Bus)

  From the Wisconsin State Capitol, walk to the nearest bus stop at State Street and Johnson Street. Take the Metro Transit Route 80 towards the University of Wisconsin-Madison. Get off at the 'University Bay Drive' stop. From there, walk south on University Bay Drive until you reach the entrance of the Lakeshore Nature Preserve. Follow the trails to Picnic Point, which will take about 10 minutes.

• Biking

  If you prefer biking, you can rent a bike from one of the local bike-sharing programs. Start at the Capitol and head west on State Street. When you reach University Avenue, turn right and bike along University Avenue for about 1.5 miles. Look for the entrance to the Lakeshore Nature Preserve on your left. Once inside, follow the bike-friendly trails to Picnic Point, which is about a 5-10 minute ride from the entrance.