Explore the Great Outdoors in Middleton

Whether it’s the 30 parks, 27 miles of multi-use trails or the 549-acre protected natural area, the outdoors instantly calls visitors’ names in Middleton.

Middleton is a destination for outdoor enthusiasts of all types. The city boasts more than 25 percent of its land as open space filled with parks, trails and conservancy lands. Whether it be by foot, wheel, paddle or with a golf club in hand, there’s something for all to enjoy in Middleton’s great outdoors.

Discover Middleton’s outdoor places and spaces

Bike, walk or hike the day away

Whether it be exploring the popular 549-acre Pheasant Branch Conservancy, taking in Middleton’s 27 miles of multi-use trails, or elevating your thrill-level up a notch at the Middleton Bike Park, there’s a trail for every level of adventure seeker to embark on in Middleton.

a man and two children walking down a path with a stroller
a woman in a kayak paddling on the water.

When it gets hot, cool off in the water

We get it, when the heats rises, everyone’s looking for a way to cool off; however, there are multiple ways to cool off in Middleton. If you enjoy water activities with an additional exercise component, Marshal Boats offers pontoon, kayak, canoe and paddle board rentals (for singles and doubles). Access the water with your own raft at the boat launch area at Mendota County Park & Campground and Marshall Park. If you’re looking for a spot for your little ones to make a splash, check out the free Splash Pad at Lakeview Park or enjoy the interactive water equipment and waterslides at the Walter R. Bauman Aquatic Center, an outdoor pool.

Round up the kiddos, let out some energy

If you’re looking for a place to let your little one’s active imagination soar, Middleton has multiple community parks all with a variety of play equipment, as well as sport facilities with options for all ages. Big, small or something in between, Middleton has a variety of park options for you and your kiddos, many of which are off or near multi-use trails.

a little girl standing in front of a play structure
a woman swinging a golf club on a golf course

Take a swing at the stunning Pleasant View Golf Course

If enjoying a combination of outdoors and sports is more your style, Pleasant View Golf Course offers a top-notch golfing experience. Open to the public, this course offers a range of golfing options including 27 holes of well-maintained, championship golf, a nine-hole par 3 course and an outstanding practice range. The entire course includes spectacular panoramic views of Middleton and Madison’s west sides. Make sure to book your tee time in advance!

Pull up a seat, dine outdoors

After a long day in the sun or a midday lunch break between outdoor activities, we highly recommend checking out an outdoor dining option. Of Middleton’s extensive food scene, there are numerous patios, porches, sidewalks and other outdoor areas to dine in open air. Enjoy your meal at a restaurant patio or take your food to-go for a picnic at one of Middleton’s many parks and green spaces, including downtown’s Stone Horse Green (bistro tables available), picnic tables by City Hall, or picnic under the Terrace Avenue Pavilion downtown.

Craftsman patio dining

Modified July 24, 2023