Lowes Creek County Park
A 250-acre natural escape in Eau Claire, offering extensive mountain biking, hiking, and fitness trails amidst mature trees.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Crisp air, fewer bugs, vibrant colors
Lowes Creek County Park
Best Time
Crisp air, fewer bugs, vibrant colors
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A 250-acre natural escape in Eau Claire, offering extensive mountain biking, hiking, and fitness trails amidst mature trees.
"A gem in Southside Eau Claire, gorgeous spot to wander and feel like you're far away from it all."
🚗 Pay for Parking
A $5 daily fee or $30 annual pass is required. Pay at the kiosk or online via QR code.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Trails are generally gentle, but good walking shoes are recommended for comfort.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Mountain Biking Trails
Throughout the park
Miles of beautifully groomed trails for all skill levels, from easy to black diamond. Features include ramps, rocks, and bridges.
The Fit Path
Along marked loops
Outdoor fitness stations with various exercises, including parallel bars, perfect for a full-body workout amidst nature.
Scenic Walking & Hiking
Various loops
Wander through mature trees, discover unique mushrooms, and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. A great spot for 'cool woodsy' photos.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Trail Etiquette & Park Fees
Best Footwear & Bug Protection
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Pay for Parking
A $5 daily fee or $30 annual pass is required. Pay at the kiosk or online via QR code.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Trails are generally gentle, but good walking shoes are recommended for comfort.
🦟 Bring Bug Spray
Especially important during warmer months to ward off biting insects in wooded areas.
🐶 Dogs on Leash Welcome
Friendly pups are welcome to join you on the trails, as long as they are leashed.
Does Eau Claire have great hiking and other outdoorsy stuff to do?
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Pay for Parking
A $5 daily fee or $30 annual pass is required. Pay at the kiosk or online via QR code.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Trails are generally gentle, but good walking shoes are recommended for comfort.
🦟 Bring Bug Spray
Especially important during warmer months to ward off biting insects in wooded areas.
🐶 Dogs on Leash Welcome
Friendly pups are welcome to join you on the trails, as long as they are leashed.
📸 Photo Opportunities
The park offers a 'cool woodsy' aesthetic, perfect for nature photography.
🚴♂️ Yield to Bikers
If hiking, be aware of mountain bikers and yield to them on shared trails.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Lowes Creek County Park's extensive and well-maintained trails, particularly for mountain biking, with options for all skill levels. The park is praised for its natural beauty, cleanliness, and the added bonus of an outdoor fitness path. Some note the entrance fee and the need for bug spray during certain seasons.
"A gem in Southside Eau Claire, gorgeous spot to wander and feel like you're far away from it all. Friendly people sharing the trails. Would be a great place to take "cool woodsy" pictures if you're seeking that. If you want to exercise there are stations along The Fit Path to do all over body circuits. Well-groomed Walking trail loops are easier to follow than the maps initially appear! Cards or cash accepted at kiosks, dogs on leash all good here! A "wear tennis shoes" walk but very gentle inclines/terrain and you can increase the intensity of you're after something more than a meander."
Cindy Seymour
"Pay to park. There is a kiosk by the trailhead or you can pay online (QR code on the kiosk).
Clean park.
Lots of well maintained trails for MTB, hiking, running. There are some benches scattered along the trails, MTB features & at least one bridge that crosses over a creek.
Saw a black squirrel & a white squirrel. If mushrooms are your thing, there are many different kinds that I saw along the trails."
April Johnson
"What a great park. We rode almost all of the trails, even one black diamond one. There are so many trails for all types of users, even for a little bit hesitant, 50+ riders like me. The trails are all beautifully groomed, too, and well marked. It is truly one of the top trail systems we have ridden!"
Tanya Reid
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Lowes Creek County Park is located in Eau Claire, Wisconsin. It's easily accessible by car, with clear signage from major roads. The park is situated on the south side of Eau Claire, close to the fairgrounds.
Yes, there are parking lots available at the trailhead. The park has a daily entrance fee, which can be paid at kiosks or online.
The park has easy access to I94, Hwy 93, and Hwy 53, making it convenient to reach from various directions.
Information on public transportation access is limited, but driving is the most common and recommended method of reaching the park.
Yes, the park is generally easy to find, especially if you are familiar with the Eau Claire area. Look for signs directing you to the park entrance.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, there is a $5 daily entrance fee per vehicle. An annual pass is available for $30. You can pay at the kiosk or via a QR code for online payment.
While specific operating hours are not always listed, county parks are typically open from dawn until dusk. It's best to check local listings or assume daylight hours.
Yes, an annual pass is available for $30, offering a cost-effective option for frequent visitors.
Payment can be made by card or cash at the kiosks. There is also an option to pay online using a QR code found on the kiosk.
Information on specific discounts is not readily available, but the annual pass offers savings for regular visitors.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The park offers a variety of activities including mountain biking on extensive trails, hiking, running, and utilizing the outdoor Fit Path for exercise. There are also picnic areas and a fishing stream.
Yes, the trails are generally well-marked with names for each loop, making them easier to follow than maps might initially suggest.
Absolutely! It's a gorgeous spot for a walk or hike, offering a peaceful, natural setting that makes you feel far from the city.
The trails offer a range of terrain, from gentle and easy to more challenging with hills, rocks, and obstacles, catering to various fitness levels.
Yes, bathrooms are available in the parking lot area for visitor convenience.
📸 📸 Photography
The park's mature trees, natural landscapes, and unique features like bridges and streams offer excellent opportunities for 'cool woodsy' photos. Keep an eye out for interesting flora and fauna, like the black and white squirrels spotted by visitors.
Yes, many visitors find the park to be a gorgeous spot with a natural, serene atmosphere that's ideal for photography.
Nature photography, landscape shots, and even candid shots of people enjoying the outdoor fitness stations or trails would be well-suited here.
The variety of trees, the creek, and the well-maintained trails themselves provide diverse visual elements for photographers.
Drone usage regulations can vary by county park. It's advisable to check with the park authorities or local ordinances before flying a drone.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the park is fantastic for hiking and general outdoor fun, parents should be mindful of the mountain biking trails. Ensure children stay on designated walking paths and are aware of cyclists. Bringing bug spray is also a good idea, especially during warmer months. The $5 daily fee is reasonable for a family outing.
🚴♀️ Mountain Bikers
Navigating the park is straightforward thanks to the named trails. Consider purchasing an annual pass if you plan on visiting frequently, as it offers great value. Remember to be courteous to other trail users and always yield to faster riders.
🚶♀️ Hikers & Nature Lovers
It's a great spot for photography, with opportunities to capture the 'cool woodsy' aesthetic. Keep an eye out for local wildlife and diverse plant life. The gentle terrain makes it accessible for a relaxed stroll, while the option to explore more challenging paths exists if desired.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Mountain Biking Paradise
The park's commitment to trail grooming ensures a fantastic riding experience. Each trail is named, making navigation easier, and the variety ensures that every ride can offer a new challenge or a different scenic perspective. Whether you're looking for a leisurely cruise or an adrenaline-pumping descent, Lowes Creek has something for every cyclist.
Key features for bikers include the diverse terrain, well-marked paths, and the presence of various obstacles designed to test and improve riding skills. The park's layout allows for continuous loops, making it easy to spend hours exploring the different sections.
Embrace the Outdoors: Hiking & Fitness
A standout feature is 'The Fit Path,' an outdoor fitness area with stations designed for full-body workouts. Visitors can perform various exercises, including using parallel bars, making it a unique spot to combine a nature walk with a strength training session.
The gentle inclines and terrain make it accessible for a leisurely stroll, but you can easily increase the intensity if you're seeking a more vigorous workout. Tips for hikers and fitness enthusiasts: Wear comfortable shoes, bring bug spray during warmer months, and be aware of your surroundings, especially mountain bikers on shared paths. The park's natural beauty also makes it a great location for photography.
Park Amenities and Visitor Experience
Amenities include restrooms located in the parking lot, making it convenient for longer visits. Benches are scattered along the trails, offering places to rest and enjoy the scenery. Dogs on a leash are welcome, making it a great spot for pet owners to enjoy the outdoors.
Visitors often praise the park's cleanliness and the friendly atmosphere among trail users. The combination of well-maintained trails, natural beauty, and accessible amenities makes Lowes Creek County Park a highly recommended destination for recreation and relaxation.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit