IF YOU’RE A LAY-IN-THE-GRASS STUDIER OR A THROW-THE-FRISBEE-AROUND KINDA PERSON, Eau Claire’s parks should have what you’re looking for. A bunch of parks right around campus offer a variety of amenities and spaces that show off Eau Claire’s natural beauty.

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1 Owen Park

The strip of land along First Avenue has tennis courts, a bandshell with live music, and a playground. Among the trees you’ll find plenty of space for yoga, frisbee, and even a healthy scene of live action role play (LARPing). The Chippewa Valley State Trail cuts right through as well.

2 Randall Park

Named after city forefather Adin Randall, Randall Park (which is also the namesake of the neighborhood it sits in) occupies a square block between Third and Fourth Streets. It’s a small, quiet space with lots of shade, perfect for reading or studying.

3 Phoenix Park

The relatively new park in downtown Eau Claire sits at the confluence of the Eau Claire and Chippewa Rivers and is home to the weekly Downtown Farmers Market. The park offers gorgeous views of the rivers, a labyrinth with occasional live music and the best place to kick off a tubing expedition.

4 Carson Park

The large forest in the middle of the city is best known by students as the place where the Blugolds play football, but it has much more than that. Half Moon Lake is a quiet place for boating and fishing, and there are multiple trail systems that let you get out of civilization for a bit. It’s also home to a gorgeous baseball stadium, home of the Eau Claire Express.

5 Mt. Simon Park

Another park that feels like it’s much further out of the city, the hike up Mt. Simon gives the premiere view of the city. Mt. Simon is also host to one of Eau Claire’s disc golf courses and probably some of the best cliff jumping in the region.

6 Putnam Trail

The trail kicks off right behind the Davies Center parking lot and continues roughly a mile into the heart of the Third Ward Neighborhood. The wooded area is perfect for a secluded romantic walk and ends right next to Demmler Park.


Eau Claire Hiking Trails

Chippewa Valley Hiking and Bike Trails

Interactive map that shows trail maps, Google Maps, photos and write-ups.

For more information on city parks, check out the City Of Eau Claire’s website, eauclairewi.gov.