Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage
Kettle Moraine State Forest Southern Unit spans over 22,000 acres across Washington, Waukesha, and Walworth counties in Wisconsin. The forest is a unique glacial landform featuring kettles, kames, eskers, and drumlins shaped by the last Ice Age, creating rolling hills and deep forested valleys. Its diverse ecology includes mixed hardwood and conifer forests, wetlands, and numerous lakes and ponds that support a variety of wildlife such as white-tailed deer, wild turkeys, and migratory birds. The park has a rich history connected to Native American habitation and 19th-century European settlement, with remnants of historic farms and burial mounds searchable throughout the forest. Recreational opportunities abound with over 250 miles of multi-use trails for hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, and snowmobiling in winter. Notable landmarks include Lapham Peak, the highest point in the Southern Unit, offering panoramic views and a 60-foot observation tower. The forest is also home to the Ice Age Visitor Center, providing educational exhibits on the region’s geology and natural history. Visitors enjoy year-round activities, from fishing and paddling in the area’s lakes to cross-country skiing and snowshoeing during the winter months. The Southern Unit combines scenic landscapes, outdoor adventure, and natural education, appealing to families, outdoor enthusiasts, and history buffs alike.
