Hank Aaron State Trail

Description: The Hank Aaron State Trail will eventually go from Lake Michigan near downtown Milwaukee to Doyne Park, just north of Miller Park. Currently only two sections are complete. About 1/3 mile is done along the Menomonee River adjacent to Miller Park, and another section between 13th and 26th Streets next to the Marquette athletic fields. The rest of the trail path has changed several times over its history. It was supposed to run on the south side of the Menomonee River between Miller Park and 26th Street, but that plan has been changed to have the trail run adjacent to the Canal Street extension, which is a part of the Menomonee Valley redevelopment. This will eliminate the need to build an expensive bridge over the rail yards at 27th Street. Incidentally, you can follow the formerly proposed path of the trail along the Menomonee River from Miller Park to 27th Street, but it is gravel. Be warned that it is a dead end, with no access to city streets along the way, except at Miller Park. The state does want to pave this path, hopefully with a ramp up to Mitchell Park near 27th Street. By the end of 2005, when the Canal Street extension is completed, the trail will be complete from Miller Park to Sixth Street. The portion from Miller Park to Doyne Park will essentially follow existing streets, (44th Street to Wells Street) but side paths will be built along them.

Official Website: Hank Aaron State Trail

Other Links: Friends of Hank Aaron State Trail

Map: Hank Aaron State Trail (not up-to-date)

Eventual Length: 7 miles

Surface: Asphalt

Access Fee: free

Facilities on the Trail: During Brewer's games, the Sausage Haus is open at Miller Park.

Connections: The western end of the trail will directly connect with the Oak Leaf Trail East-West Connector in Doyne Park. The eastern end of the trail will connect with the Oak Leaf Trail Main Loop near the Summerfest grounds.

Photos: (taken 8/13/03)

The current north end of the trail at Miller Park. That's I-94 in the distance. Looking south from Selig Way. Typical trail segment near Miller Park. Going straight under the bridge takes you to the Canal Street extension. Going up to the bridge will take you on the former official path of the Hank Aaron Trail, along the south side of the Menomonee River.