While Wisconsin’s soft sand beaches draw big crowds on warm summer days, they deliver a special kind of magic as the seasons change. Kohler-Andrae State Park offers one of the state’s best beach hikes – its boardwalk and “cordwalk” trails skirt Lake Michigan and take visitors on an unforgettable journey across wild and grassy dunes. Here’s why you need to put this wonderful park on your hiking list.
Kohler-Andrae State Park is located just south of Sheboygan in the town of Wilson. It’s actually two state parks that are managed together: Terry Andrae State Park, established in 1927, and John Michael Kohler State Park, which was established in 1966.
Alltrails / Gani Hower
Together, the parks cover nearly 1,000 acres and protect an unspoiled swath of Lake Michigan shoreline.
Alltrails / Jill Barth
Unlike many parcels in the area, the land was never developed - the soil was too sandy for farming or grazing cattle.
Alltrails / Sarah Reed
The parks contain two miles of dunes and beach along lake Michigan. While you can kick off your shoes and walk by the water’s edge, the park also gives hikers another option.
Alltrails / Andrew Oasen
The park’s network of trails includes long boardwalks and cordwalks (wooden walking paths). The paths protect the fragile lakefront ecosystem and make hiking easy.
Alltrails / Carrie Bovinska
The park has two nature trails and three hiking trails. The paths take visitors through rolling dunes, open fields, evergreen forests, and woodlands. At the end of the hike, you can relax on the beach and enjoy one of the best views in eastern Wisconsin!
Alltrails / Andrew Oasen
Kohler-Andrae State Park is open all year, and it is always worth a visit. A state vehicle sticker is required for entrance. Learn more about the park on the Kohler-Andrae State Park website. There’s a lot to do in the area, and you’ll find the Sheboygan area has more than great hiking trails – it’s also a surfing mecca!
Alltrails / Gani Hower
Alltrails / Jill Barth
Alltrails / Sarah Reed
Alltrails / Andrew Oasen
Alltrails / Carrie Bovinska
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Address: Kohler-Andrae State Park, 1020 Beach Park Ln, Sheboygan, WI 53081, USA
