Magnolia Bluff Park — Attraction in Town of Magnolia

I had limited time when I went to visit, so this review is based on doing only a partial loop, from the lower parking lot to the top of the bluff, and then back down on one of the "shortcut" trails. Hiking only, haven't bought a horse yet, so I can't speak to the bridle trails.

But what an incredible spot. I've lived in the area for some time but didn't know about Magnolia Bluff until I recently picked up a copy of Kevin Revolinski's 60 Hikes within 60 Miles: Madison (side review: also highly recommended!).

When you start at the lower lot with the intent of going up to the overlook, the trails are hiking-only, and a moderate difficulty rating seems appropriate. You'll be going up and down some narrow paths--mostly dirt and sand, but there are also some stony areas that could be slippery, especially during/after any rain.

There is another, upper parking lot closer to the overlook, and there are accessible trails there (nicely kept small gravel). Benches that are a little further back from the actual limestone overlook still provide a beautiful view.

According to the info I have, both parking lots have water pumps and toilets (with hand sanitizer).

Grateful for the wonderful Rock County folks who maintain the park and those who have contributed to the preservation of endangered plant species here! Well worth a visit.

More info from Revolinski's book: •Total loop distance: 2.4 mi •Exposure: mostly shaded (I'm adding: except for at the top of the bluff) •Elevation change (when hiking the full distance): 896'-1,080' •Access: 5:00 am - 10:00 pm •Traffic: light

Trail maps are...

Great for kids. Tip one: Park in the second parking lot. Short easy path to the lookout area (on map it's on the left). Would be good for a stroller. There are picnic tables and a nice bench to sit on. If you walk down from there it's easy enough for 7 and 10 year old to see the amazing rock wall just below. Tip two: the lookout at #2 isn't much to see. Walking from first outlook (not numbered) taking path 4 to 3 to 2 can get confusing. Many man made paths that cut between the trails and not enough signing. There are lots showing it's a walking/horses. Just needs the # of the trail on it. Few times you get to make 2-3 choices on which way to go. Most are in the shade and are short. We drove coming from Brooklyn and it's just such a...

This is a fun little park. I've been here a few times now with friends. There are various trails from fairly level to fairly steep. Mostly wooded with a few scenic viewing spots. There are horse trails here, though I can't say much about them. Sometimes they coincide with the foot trails.

Elsewhere I saw someone say that the nearby dairy farm can be smelly with the right wind. This hasn't happened the few times I've been here, but I can see it being an issue, particularly if you're more sensitive to those...