Putnam Park — Attraction in Eau Claire

Set a course destined for shipwreck and take the SS Minnow to the sand peninsula west of that trail part of Putnam Park that hits the Chippewa River, and check it out. It really does remind me of that Hollywood set that was made to look like the no-name island that Gilligan and his Skipper inhabited with movie stars and millionaires, there is even a glorified tiki hut back down the trail where the professor is likely swooning another Mary Ann. Bring the bug spray because in such dense foliage, it's the deciduous decision to make. Sure, there are no coconuts or palm trees, but there sure is a lot of sand... where did it...

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/...

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...