1000 Islands Environmental Center has over seven miles of trails that loop through 350 acres of Conservancy Zone land. The public trails are open year-round and offer hikers and nature enthusiasts an opportunity to enjoy the scenic views of the Fox River along with seeing many native species of trees and wildflowers. The trails are a natural area for birding and wildlife watching. (Note: Dogs and pets are NOT ALLOWED on our trails, in the picnic and park area.) The City of Kaukauna has many dog-friendly trails. Please visit their website for more information. https://kaukauna.gov/community/parks/
The Conservancy Zone trail system was developed by the Kaukauna Improvement Committee along with the assistance of the DNR in the 1970s. The goal was to develop a trail system for educational programs and the enjoyment of nature. Together, these two groups identified trees, engineered the trails and developed a plan to manage and preserve the Conservancy Zone. The construction of the first trail was completed with community volunteers along with local Boy Scout troops.
Currently, our trails consist of over 2,000 feet of barrier-free boardwalk, a black-top loop trail, and several miles of soft-surface trails on the Hoersch Memorial Trail and the Upper Woods trails. A good portion of our trail system is along the Fox River and is ideal for bird and wildlife watching. Our trail system also offers observation decks, a canoe/kayak launch and fishing piers.
Wintertime brings the opportunity to utilize the trails for snowshoeing. The Valley Trail in the Upper Woods of the Conservancy Zone is an ideal trail for snowshoeing. With ample (8”) snow, snowshoeing is allowed on any trail.
Trail Map (PDF)
Conservancy Zone Guidelines (PDF)
