Putnam Park State Natural Area - Image 1
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Putnam Park State Natural Area

4.5
·161 reviews·Eau Claire, United States

A diverse wilderness area with native trees, plants, animals, and birds, featuring well-maintained trails for hiking and biking.

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Summer afternoons

Shaded trails offer cool respite

CrowdMedium
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Putnam Park State Natural Area - Image 1

Putnam Park State Natural Area

Best Time

Summer afternoons

Shaded trails offer cool respite

CrowdMedium

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A diverse wilderness area with native trees, plants, animals, and birds, featuring well-maintained trails for hiking and biking.

4.5
(161 reviews)

"So peaceful to bike in here, and when outside is cooking hot, here's super cool."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚶‍♀️ Respect Shared Trails

Hikers, bikers, and cars share the path. Yield to uphill traffic and stay to your side. :athletic_shoe:

🅿️ Choose Your Parking Wisely

UWEC offers more parking. Putnam St has a playground nearby. :car:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Scenic Pond Wildlife

Scenic Pond Wildlife

Near the wooden path and bridge

Observe diverse wildlife in a tranquil pond setting, often featuring a charming wooden path and bridge.

The Tunnel Under State St

The Tunnel Under State St

Underneath State Street

A unique feature, this tunnel offers a cool passage and connects different sections of the park's trail system.

Upper Trail to UWEC

Upper Trail to UWEC

Connecting to UW-Eau Claire campus

An elevated path offering a different perspective and convenient access to the university.

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Trail Etiquette & Shared Use

Putnam Park is a shared space for hikers, bikers, and cars. Be mindful of others on the trails, especially on the main path. Yield to uphill traffic and keep to your side to ensure a smooth experience for everyone.

Parking & Access Points

Access Putnam Park from multiple points. Putnam Street offers a playground nearby, while the UW-Eau Claire campus provides more extensive parking options. Plan your entry based on your desired trail experience.

Best Times

When
Summer afternoons
Why
Shaded trails offer cool respite
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds for peaceful walks
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

This is the Ojibwe Grand Ballroom which is the largest ballroom in northwest Wisconsin. Featuring hardwood floors, soaring 24 ft ceilings, seven video screens, and scenic views of the Putnam Park State Natural Area, the Ojibwe Grand Ballroom is perfect for any event.
simply_traveller_
8 likes • 166 views

🚶‍♀️ Respect Shared Trails

Hikers, bikers, and cars share the path. Yield to uphill traffic and stay to your side. :athletic_shoe:

🅿️ Choose Your Parking Wisely

UWEC offers more parking. Putnam St has a playground nearby. :car:

reddit.com

Random Request- Putnam Park

reddit.com

does anyone know any cool secret places to explore in ec? I know some sunset spots, one tunnel, the train bridge, etc. just looking for new places to explore

🌳 Embrace the Nature

Look for diverse trees, plants, animals, and birds. It's a true wilderness experience. :bird:

🌉 Admire the Bridge

The wooden path leads to a bridge, a scenic spot for photos. :camerawithflash:

reddit.com

Recommendations while visiting Eau Claire

Tips

from all over the internet

🚶‍♀️ Respect Shared Trails

Hikers, bikers, and cars share the path. Yield to uphill traffic and stay to your side. :athletic_shoe:

🅿️ Choose Your Parking Wisely

UWEC offers more parking. Putnam St has a playground nearby. :car:

🌳 Embrace the Nature

Look for diverse trees, plants, animals, and birds. It's a true wilderness experience. :bird:

🌉 Admire the Bridge

The wooden path leads to a bridge, a scenic spot for photos. :camerawithflash:

What Travellers Say

4.5
(161 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Putnam Park for its beautiful natural setting, diverse wildlife, and well-maintained trails suitable for walking, biking, and family outings. The park offers a peaceful escape with unique features like a scenic pond and a tunnel, though shared trail use requires awareness.

"Lovely trail with lots of animals and nature. The main trail is one straight line, although there are a few paths and stairs on the way. It took maybe a little over an hour at a leisurely pace going back and forth. Beware that cars and bikes do come through as well. Depending on where you park, there is a small area to park at one end whereas the other end of the trail goes to UWEC where you'll have more parking spaces."

PC Xy

"So peaceful to bike in here, and when outside is cooking hot, here's super cool"

Marytere Farell Sultan

"This is a beautiful hike any time of the year, with a few different features. There is an upper path that connects to some nearby streets. Also a pond that has plenty of wildlife, and a wood path and bridge. The path seems to be made from old pallets but thankfully the bridge is not, ha. There is the tunnel that goes underneath State St, and an upper level of the path that goes from that point to UWEC. Easy to access from Putnam St with a park/ playground nearby."

Hank Zane

What People Like

Beautiful nature and wildlife
Well-maintained trails
Peaceful atmosphere

What People Dislike

Shared trail use

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Putnam Park State Natural Area is accessible from multiple points. You can park near Putnam Street, which also has a playground, or utilize the more extensive parking options available at the UW-Eau Claire campus. The main trail is a straightforward path, but there are also connecting paths and stairs to explore. Reddit

Yes, there are parking areas available. One option is a small area at one end of the trail, while the other end, leading to UWEC, offers more substantial parking spaces. Reddit

Absolutely! Putnam Park is a popular spot for biking, with a nice wide path that's great for cycling. Reddit

Yes, it's a very nice trail for walking, jogging, or biking. The path is wide and well-maintained, making it enjoyable for all. Reddit

While the main trail is a straight line, there are a few connecting paths and stairs that offer variations. An upper path also connects to nearby streets and the UWEC campus. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Putnam Park State Natural Area is a public natural area and does not require tickets for entry. It's free to access and enjoy the trails and nature. Reddit

As a natural area, Putnam Park is generally open from dawn until dusk. Specific hours may vary slightly, but it's typically accessible throughout daylight hours. Reddit

There is no admission fee to enter Putnam Park State Natural Area. You can explore its trails and natural beauty without any cost. Reddit

Putnam Park is a natural area and does not require reservations for general access. You can visit anytime during daylight hours. Reddit

While generally open, it's always a good idea to be aware of local regulations regarding park usage, especially concerning pets, fires, or overnight stays. Always practice Leave No Trace principles. Reddit

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

Putnam Park is home to numerous native trees, plants, animals, and birds. You can expect a diverse wilderness experience with plenty of opportunities for wildlife observation. Reddit

Yes, many visitors find Putnam Park to be a very nice trail to go on with kids. The trails are well-kept, and the natural setting is engaging for children. Reddit

Restroom availability can vary. While not explicitly mentioned in all reviews, facilities might be present near parking areas or the playground. It's advisable to check local information or come prepared. Reddit

While it can get busy, especially on weekends, visiting on weekday mornings can offer a more peaceful experience. The park's size allows for finding quieter sections away from the main path. Reddit

The terrain is generally easy to moderate. The main trail is wide and relatively flat, but there are some paths with stairs and inclines. The wooden path and bridge offer a unique surface. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The scenic pond with its wooden path and bridge is a popular spot for photography. The tunnel under State Street also offers unique photo opportunities. The diverse flora and fauna provide endless subjects. Reddit

Absolutely! With its variety of native trees, plants, animals, and birds, Putnam Park is an excellent location for nature photography. Reddit

Drone usage regulations can vary by park and local ordinances. It's recommended to check with the park authorities or local government for specific rules regarding drone operation in natural areas. Reddit

Early morning or late afternoon often provide the best lighting for photography, creating softer shadows and warmer tones. The shaded trails can also be pleasant during hotter parts of the day. Reddit

The pond with its bridge, the tunnel under State Street, and the scenic views from the upper trails are notable landmarks for photography. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Putnam Park is a fantastic choice for families looking for an outdoor adventure. The well-maintained, wide trails are perfect for little legs and strollers, making it easy for everyone to explore. Many visitors rave about how nice the trails are for kids, ensuring a pleasant experience for the whole family. Reddit

Consider accessing the park from Putnam Street, as it's noted to have a playground nearby, offering an additional fun element for children. The natural setting, with its diverse trees and potential for spotting wildlife, provides an engaging environment for kids to learn and discover. It’s a great place for a family picnic or a relaxed afternoon walk. Reddit

🚴‍♀️ Cyclists and Joggers

For cyclists and joggers, Putnam Park offers a delightful experience with its wide, smooth paths. The main trail is particularly well-suited for biking, providing a steady and enjoyable ride. The park's natural beauty adds to the appeal, making your workout feel more like a scenic tour. Reddit

The park is also noted as being a cool place to be when the weather is hot, thanks to the shade provided by the numerous trees. This makes it a comfortable option for exercise even on warmer days. Be mindful of shared use, as cars and other bikers also frequent the trails, so practice good trail etiquette. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring the Trails of Putnam Park

Putnam Park State Natural Area offers a network of trails catering to various preferences. The main trail is a wide, straightforward path, ideal for a leisurely stroll or a brisk bike ride. It's a popular route, so expect to share it with other visitors. For those seeking a bit more variety, several connecting paths and stairs branch off, leading to different sections of the park. These offer a slightly more challenging terrain and can lead to more secluded spots. Reddit

One of the unique features is the upper trail that provides an elevated perspective and connects to the UW-Eau Claire campus, offering a convenient access point and a different view of the surroundings. This trail system ensures that whether you're looking for a simple walk or a more exploratory hike, Putnam Park has something to offer. Remember to wear comfortable shoes, as some paths can be uneven. Reddit

Wildlife observation is a significant draw. Keep an eye out for the diverse native trees, plants, animals, and birds that populate this wilderness area. The pond area, in particular, is a hotspot for spotting local fauna. The park's natural beauty makes it a rewarding destination for nature enthusiasts and casual visitors alike. Reddit

A Natural Oasis for Recreation

Putnam Park State Natural Area is a versatile destination for recreation, serving hikers, bikers, and even those who appreciate a peaceful environment. The wide, well-maintained paths make it an excellent choice for biking and jogging, providing a smooth and enjoyable ride. The park's natural setting, with its numerous trees, offers a welcome respite from the heat during warmer months, making it a cool place to be when the outside is cooking hot. Reddit

For families, the park is a great option. Reviews highlight that it's a very nice trail to go on with your kids, with the paths being nicely kept up. The presence of a playground near one of the access points further enhances its appeal for families. The natural environment provides a stimulating and safe space for children to explore and connect with nature. Reddit

The park's peaceful ambiance is frequently mentioned, making it a go-to spot for those seeking tranquility. Whether you're looking for a vigorous workout or a serene escape, Putnam Park offers a blend of recreational opportunities within a beautiful natural setting. Reddit

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