Know Before You Go
Getting to the Forest
Physical Address:
1800 Forest Exploration Drive
Wauwatosa, Wisconsin 53226
On the historic Milwaukee County Grounds in Wauwatosa, the Forest is bounded by Swan Boulevard to the south, Underwood Parkway to the north, Wil-O-Way Underwood to the west, and the MMSD stormwater basins to the east.
Main Entrance
Primary access is by way of our entrance road, Forest Exploration Drive, north of the roundabout at Swan Boulevard and Discovery Parkway. Accessible parking and main trailhead access at this location.
Secondary Entrance
A second trailhead entrance and accessible parking area is located at the Camp Wil-O-Way Underwood Recreation Center.*
Please enter the forest only at the designated trailhead access point to the left of the Recreation Center building.
* The Recreation Center is not a public facility.
We Strive to Balance Public Use and Habitat Protection
The Rules
Please observe the following property rules to ensure the safety and enjoyment of all who visit and to protect all plants and animals that live here.
Operating Hours
Day Use Only: Dawn to Dusk
Dogs Must Be Leashed
Dogs must be under control and on a leash no longer than 6 feet.
Pick up pet waste.
Leave No Trace
Take everything you brought in with you, including food, garbage, and pet waste. Use the dog waste station at the trailhead when available.
No Bicycles in the Forest
Foot traffic, wheelchairs, and strollers only.
For the safety of all visitors and forest health, please park your bike.
No Hunting | No Trapping
Do not discharge weapons, including guns or bows and arrows.
No trapping of wild animals.
Call 911 in an Emergency
Non-Emergency: Police (414) 471-8430
Wildlife, Resource or Environmental Violation:
DNR 1-800-TIP-WDNR or 1-800-847-9367
The Trail
The Forest Ecology Trail is a self-guided nature trail that loops through one mile of southern hardwood forest. Trail surface and exhibits are wheelchair accessible.
