Bring Your Doggo Along When Traveling to Jefferson County

Traveling with your pup this summer? The communities in Jefferson & northern Walworth Counties are chock full of places your pooch (and you!) will love. From parks and trails to dog-friendly lodging, we’ve got you covered!

Trails

Ice Age Trail – Walworth & Jefferson County Segments

Photo credit: John Sevilla

This 1200mi footpath offers beauty to the hiker and much to explore for your pup! The Walworth & Jefferson Counties section of the trail consists of the Blue Spring Lake Segment, Blackhawk Segment, Whitewater Lake Segment, and Clover Valley Segment with a 4.9-mile connecting route. Keep your dog leashed (8-ft maximum length) and under control at all times.

Glacial Drumlin State Trail – Jefferson

This gravel/paved “rail-trail” is a popular spot, not only for bikers and skaters but walkers with their pups, too! Enjoy bridge crossings over the Rock and Crawfish Rivers. Please keep doggo on a leash no longer than 6ft.

Glacial River Trail – Fort Atkinson

This paved trail traverses hills, valleys, and city/rural streets. Perfect for an afternoon stroll with your pup. Stop at the picnic area for you and your dog to take a drink from the fountain and relax.

UW-Whitewater Nature Preserve – Whitewater

Photo credit: Katy Daixon Photography

The Nature Preserve boasts over five miles of trails through a variety of ecosystems, including woodlands, wetlands, prairie, and others. Bike, hike, or walk these beautiful trails with pup in tow!

Hikes and Hounds Monthly Hikes on the Nordic Trail – Whitewater

These monthly hikes bring together amazing dogs and their humans so you can enjoy making new friends on the beautiful Nordic Trail of the Kettle Moraine State Forest. Visit Avant Cycle Cafe afterward in La Grange for refueling and a rest on their outdoor patio.

Parks

Run around with your pup at any one of these beautiful parks in diverse terrains. Fenced-off Whitewater Bark Park and Jefferson County Dog Park allow fido to roam free, however, they need registration! Keep your pup on a leash at the other parks listed except if they are going to swim at Rice Lake Picnic Area, Rice Lake Park & Boat Launch (right side of the pier), or Oak Hollow Pet Area (cross the street and follow the path down the hill to an open play area and swimming spot).

• Jefferson County Dog Park – Hwy 26, between Jefferson & Johnson Creek

• Whitewater Bark Park – Whitewater

• Burnt Village County Park – Fort Atkinson

• Dorothy Carnes County Park – Fort Atkinson

Photo credit: dogs.thefuntimesguide.com

• Natureland – Whitewater

• Dr. O.R. Rice Picnic Area – Whitewater

• Rice Lake Park & Boat Launch – Whitewater

• Oak Hollow Pet Area – Whitewater

Photo credit: DNR

Restaurants

Center Street Cafe – Whitewater

Quaint, cozy coffee shop with good eats in downtown Whitewater. Pup is allowed inside while you lounge. Pop over to Cravath Lakefront Park just down the street for a lakeside walk before or after!

The Cafe & The Bakehouse – Whitewater

Grab some coffee and a breakfast sandwich and chill in their outdoor seating areas. Make sure to treat your dog to a pupcake!

Photo credit: The Cafe by The Sweet Spot

Jones Dairy Bar – Fort Atkinson

Ice cream for you AND fido (doggie cones). Scrumptious

Second Salem Brewing Co. – Whitewater

Relax with your pup and a craft brew on the colorful patio overlooking Cravath Lake.

Photo credit: Second Salem

Stable Rock Winery & Distillery – Jefferson

Tasting flights, German-inspired food, and your pup enjoying the Rock River = perfect evening.

Sunset Bar & Grill – Fort Atkinson

Outdoor seating is in the sand, so be sure to walk your dog beforehand! Beautiful view of Lake Koshkonong with classic bar foods, pizza, and live music.

Lodging

Whether hotel or cozy bed and breakfast, these three spots let your pup join in on the rest away from home.

Photo credit: Bet Western Hotels

• Best Western Plus – Jefferson

• Holiday Inn Express – Fort Atkinson

• Hamilton House B&B – Whitewater

Happy dog days of summer, folks!