North entrance — pedestrian bridge· Start here
Walkers, transit users, and visitors arriving from downtown, Discovery World or the lakefront museums.
Near 500 N. Harbor Dr., Milwaukee, WI 53202 (43.036660, -87.897041) · Cross the signature bridge and follow the east-side path south for the most complete first loop.
South entrance — Erie Street / harbor-lighthouse end
Drivers, anglers, paddlers, and visitors arriving from the Historic Third Ward.
East end of E. Erie St., Milwaukee, WI 53202 (43.028283, -87.895953) · Closest access to south parking, the small beach/stone-step paddling access, lighthouse and accessible fishing pier.
On foot
North pedestrian bridge near Discovery World / Harbor Drive
Best approach from downtown, the museum district and the lakefront; start here for the full loop.
Bus
CONNECT 1, GreenLine, 14, 15, 18, 30, 33 · Lakefront / Discovery World / Summerfest-area stops
10 min walk
Walk to the north bridge; confirm live routing and detours with MCTS on the day.
Car
South entrance access road at the east end of E. Erie Street
0 min walk
Use the south-end parking nearest the trail entrance; spaces are limited during festivals and major lakefront events.
Other
Oak Leaf Trail / Hank Aaron State Trail · Park trail connections
0 min walk
Paved multi-use links connect directly to the park; cycling and skating are allowed.
Step 1
Arrive during park hours
The park is open daily, year-round, 6 a.m.–10 p.m.; anglers, designated-trail users and registered marina guests may be present at other times.
Step 2
Enter by either public access point
There is no gate, entry booth, ticket scan, ID check, security screening or normal arrival queue.
Step 3
Use the paved public trails
No vehicle admission sticker, entry reservation or day-use permit is required for ordinary park access.
All park trails are described by the Wisconsin DNR as wheelchair friendly. The paved, largely level trail network suits wheelchairs, strollers and mobility aids, and an accessible fishing pier is on the south lagoon off the west trail. In winter, only the east trail is routinely plowed.
Source: dnr.wisconsin.gov