Looking for a walk on the wild side? Eau Claire’s trails aren’t just great for getting your steps in—they’re full of surprise wildlife encounters, too! From deer and turtles to herons, eagles, and maybe even a bear, our local paths are teeming with life if you know where to look. So grab your hiking shoes, bug spray, and some binoculars. These are the best trails in Eau Claire for spotting wildlife!
Photo: Beaver Creek Reserve
Beaver Creek Reserve
A true haven for nature lovers, Beaver Creek Reserve in nearby Fall Creek offers some of the best opportunities for spotting wildlife in the area. The network of trails here winds through forests, wetlands, and prairie, each home to birds, deer, turtles, frogs, and more. Bring binoculars! You’re likely to catch glimpses of everything from sandhill cranes to foxes. In the chance that you don't see anything in the wild, stop inside to see the animals and reptiles in the nature reserve. Plus, Beaver Creek Reserve's butterfly house is open every summer from July 5 - Labor Day!
Mt. Simon
Mt. Simon might be known for its steep climbs and stunning 360-degree views, but its terrain also makes it a great place to spot wildlife — especially early in the morning or just before dusk. Keep an eye out for whitetail deer grazing in the woods, and listen for the calls of birds overhead. The mix of wooded areas and riverfront access makes it a surprisingly diverse habitat, just minutes from downtown Eau Claire!
Carson Park
Surrounded by Half Moon Lake, Carson Park is more than a sports hub — it’s a mini urban wildlife sanctuary! Take a stroll around the lake trail and you’re likely to see ducks, geese, turtles sunning on logs, and fish. The wooded paths inside the park are also great for spotting squirrels, rabbits, and a variety of songbirds. It's never a guarantee, but the combination of Braun's Bay and Carson Park's woodland scene makes a great home for many animals!
Photo: Putnam Trail
Putnam Trail
This peaceful, isolating trail shows you what it's like to walk through a lush forest, all while right in Eau Claire! Putnam Trail is a go-to spot for seeing whitetail deer, woodpeckers, owls, and more. Early morning or late afternoon walks offer the best chances for sightings, especially if you keep your pace quiet and slow and your eyes peeled!
River Prairie Park
The movin' and groovin' of live music events in River Prairie doesn't scare the wildlife away too much. This Altoona park is notorious for bird-watching in the spring and summer months. Relaxing in the park, at the splash pad, or hanging in a hammock will put you close to the variety of birds that inhabit this bird city, but the river trail is even better. Be on the lookout for bald eagles, ospreys, and more flying friends in River Prairie!
Wheaton Park
The Town of Wheaton is wildlife central, and Wheaton Park is just the spot to start searching. With miles of wooded trails, it's the ideal area for deer, rabbits, a variety of birds, and more. It's a peaceful place for slow walks and some wildlife sighting — you never you what you might encounter!
Buffalo River State Trail
Stretching over 36 miles from Mondovi to Fairchild, the Buffalo River State Trail is a scenic gem for wildlife watchers. The path weaves through wetlands, forests, and open countryside, making it a prime route for spotting deer, wild turkeys, sandhill cranes, and even the occasional bald eagle. Head towards Osseo to hop on the trail to see what animals are out and about!