Jacobus Park Nature Trail
Trail Quick Facts
About Jacobus Park Nature Trail
The Jacobus Park Nature Trail is a designated National Recreation Trail located within Jacobus Park, a 31-acre urban woodland in Wauwatosa, Wisconsin. This one-mile loop trail offers visitors an outstanding example of an undisturbed woodland environment in the highly developed metropolitan Milwaukee area. The trail has served as an outdoor classroom and nature preserve since the early 20th century.
With more than 160 native plant species documented within the park, including several state-listed threatened and endangered species, Jacobus Park provides a unique opportunity to experience native Wisconsin ecology without leaving the city. The trail features old-growth oaks and maples, some more than 150 years old, along with diverse woodland habitats along the Honey Creek corridor.
Trail History
Originally known as Sholes Park in honor of Christopher Sholes, inventor of the first practical typewriter and Wisconsin state senator, the site was renamed Jacobus Park in 1932. The naming honored Charles C. Jacobus, a former Milwaukee County supervisor instrumental in developing the county park system. Along with the initial acquisition of land for Grant Park, Jacobus Park represented one of the first purchases by the Milwaukee County Park System, which was established in 1907, with these first land acquisitions occurring in 1910.
Ecological Significance
Jacobus Park stands as a remnant of the southern hardwood forests that once covered southeastern Wisconsin. The park’s location along the Menomonee River corridor creates diverse microclimates and habitats. The preservation of this woodland environment provides critical ecosystem services for the urban area, including stormwater management, air quality improvement, wildlife habitat, and opportunities for environmental education.
The trail system serves thousands of schoolchildren throughout the Milwaukee area annually, functioning as an outdoor laboratory for environmental education and field trips. The interpretive signage helps teachers and parents lead self-guided walks that provide valuable lessons in ecology, conservation, and natural history that complement classroom learning.
Difficulty Level & Trail Conditions
The Jacobus Park Nature Trail is rated as easy and suitable for hikers of all skill levels. The one-mile loop features natural surface paths with some challenging elevation changes as the trail winds through wooded terrain and follows the park’s topography. While generally accessible to most visitors, the elevation changes may present challenges for those with mobility limitations.
Trail conditions vary by season. Spring and fall typically offer the most comfortable hiking conditions with moderate temperatures and beautiful seasonal colors. Summer can be warm and humid, typical of southeastern Wisconsin. Winter hiking is possible when snow conditions permit, though the trail is not groomed or maintained for winter sports.
Trail Route Guide
The Jacobus Park Nature Trail forms a loop through the 31-acre woodland park, offering visitors a chance to explore diverse forest habitats within an urban setting. The trail is well-marked with interpretive signage that explains the ecological features encountered along the route.
Trail Description
The nature trail begins near the parking area on W. Hillside Lane. The loop winds through mature hardwood forest dominated by oak and maple trees, some reaching ages of 150 years or more. The trail surface consists of natural earth paths that follow the park’s gently rolling topography.
As you walk the loop, you’ll experience elevation changes that provide views of different forest layers and microhabitats. The trail passes through areas with dense canopy cover, creating a cool, shaded environment during summer months. In spring, the forest floor comes alive with wildflowers and emerging vegetation. Fall brings spectacular color as the deciduous trees change.
- Old-Growth Forest: Mature oak and maple trees provide dense canopy cover
- Interpretive Signage: Stainless-steel educational signs explain local ecology and species
- Woodland Understory: Diverse shrub layer and herbaceous plants
- Seasonal Interest: Spring wildflowers, summer shade, fall colors, winter structure
- Wildlife Viewing: Opportunities to observe birds, small mammals, and insects
- Water Features: Proximity to Honey Creek and Menomonee River
Points of Interest
Native Plant Communities: The trail showcases more than 160 documented native species, providing examples of the plant diversity that once characterized southeastern Wisconsin. Several state-listed threatened and endangered species can be found within the park boundaries, making it an important conservation site.
Old-Growth Trees: Some of the oaks and maples along the trail are over 150 years old, predating European settlement patterns in the area. These trees provide valuable habitat for cavity-nesting birds and other wildlife dependent on mature forest structure.
Educational Stations: Throughout the trail, interpretive signs offer information about forest ecology, plant identification, wildlife habitat, and conservation practices. These stations make the trail particularly valuable for educational groups and self-guided learning.
Typical Itineraries
| Visit Type | Duration | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Quick Nature Walk | 20-30 minutes | Complete the main loop at a moderate pace |
| Educational Tour | 45-60 minutes | Stop to read interpretive signs and observe nature |
| Wildlife Observation | 1-2 hours | Patient observation at various points along trail |
| Photography Excursion | 1-2 hours | Capture seasonal colors and forest scenes |
Trail Connections
Jacobus Park connects to two important regional trail systems:
Oak Leaf Trail: This 125-mile multi-use trail system loops through Milwaukee County. The Menomonee Branch of the Oak Leaf Trail passes along the Honey Creek Parkway adjacent to Jacobus Park, providing paved trail access for cyclists and inline skaters. This connection allows visitors to extend their outdoor experience or access Jacobus Park via the county-wide trail network.
Forked Aster Trails: Milwaukee County Parks maintains a network of soft-surface nature trails called Forked Aster Trails. Jacobus Park is part of this system, allowing nature enthusiasts to connect to other woodland trails throughout the county for extended hiking experiences.
Planning Your Visit
Best Time to Visit
The Jacobus Park Nature Trail is open year-round, with each season offering distinct experiences:
Spring (April-May): This is an excellent time to visit as the forest floor comes alive with spring ephemerals and wildflowers before the tree canopy fully leafs out. Temperatures are moderate, typically ranging from 50-70°F during the day. Bird migration brings increased avian activity. Some muddy conditions possible after snowmelt or rain.
Summer (June-August): The dense tree canopy provides welcome shade during warm summer days. Daytime temperatures typically range from 70-85°F, with higher humidity common in southeastern Wisconsin. This is prime time for observing the full diversity of forest plant life and wildlife activity. The trail is popular with families during summer months. Occasional afternoon thunderstorms possible.
Fall (September-October): Many consider this the optimal season for visiting. The oak and maple trees produce spectacular autumn color displays, typically peaking in mid-to-late October. Comfortable temperatures (55-70°F) and lower humidity make for pleasant hiking conditions. Reduced insect activity compared to summer. Excellent for photography.
Winter (November-March): The trail remains accessible during winter when conditions permit. Bare trees reveal forest structure and allow views through the woods. Temperatures range from 20-40°F with snow cover common December through February. Winter offers opportunities for peaceful, solitary experiences and tracking wildlife. The trail is not groomed for winter sports.
Permits & Regulations
Entry: Access to Jacobus Park and the nature trail is free. No permits or reservations required for individual or family visits.
Park Hours: The park is open daily from 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM. Visitors should plan to complete their hikes and exit the park by closing time. The trail is not lit, so plan accordingly during early morning or evening visits.
Group Visits: School groups and organized educational programs regularly use the trail. Large groups may wish to contact Milwaukee County Parks in advance to coordinate visits and avoid conflicts with other scheduled programs.
- Dogs must be on-leash at all times (maximum 6-foot leash)
- Owners must clean up after pets
- Stay on designated trails to protect sensitive plant communities
- No removal of plants, rocks, or natural features
- No hunting or trapping
- No motorized vehicles on trails
- No fires or camping
- Pack out all trash (Leave No Trace principles)
- No disturbing or feeding wildlife
- Alcohol prohibited
What to Bring
For a comfortable and safe visit to the nature trail, consider bringing:
- Water: Bring drinking water, especially during warm months
- Comfortable Footwear: Walking shoes or light hiking boots appropriate for natural surface trails
- Insect Repellent: Mosquitoes can be present during warmer months, especially in shaded woodland areas
- Sunscreen: Even in forested areas, protection recommended for sunny days
- Field Guides: Bird, plant, or tree identification guides enhance educational experience
- Binoculars: Useful for bird watching and wildlife observation
- Camera: Capture seasonal beauty and wildlife encounters
- Small Backpack: For carrying personal items and any litter (pack out principle)
Leave No Trace Principles
Jacobus Park is a precious natural resource in an urban environment. All visitors should follow Leave No Trace principles:
- Plan Ahead and Prepare: Know park hours and regulations before visiting
- Stay on Designated Trails: Prevent erosion and protect sensitive plant species
- Dispose of Waste Properly: Pack out all trash; use receptacles where provided
- Leave What You Find: Don’t pick wildflowers or remove natural objects
- Respect Wildlife: Observe from a distance; never feed animals
- Be Considerate of Other Visitors: Keep noise levels reasonable; control pets
Wildlife & Natural Features
Flora
Jacobus Park preserves an exceptional example of southeastern Wisconsin’s native hardwood forest ecosystem. The park has documented over 160 native plant species, making it a botanical treasure within the urban landscape.
Canopy Trees: The forest is dominated by mature oak and maple species, with individual trees reaching ages of 150 years or more. These old-growth specimens provide valuable ecological services including wildlife habitat, carbon storage, and stormwater management. Oak species include white oak, red oak, and bur oak. Maple species include sugar maple and red maple.
Understory Plants: The forest understory includes a diverse array of shrubs, small trees, and herbaceous plants adapted to the shaded woodland environment. This layered structure provides habitat complexity important for wildlife.
Spring Wildflowers: In early spring before the tree canopy fully develops, the forest floor hosts ephemeral wildflowers that take advantage of available sunlight. These species bloom, set seed, and go dormant before the shade intensifies in summer.
Fauna
Birds: The park’s location along the Menomonee River corridor makes it an important stopover for migratory birds. The mature forest provides nesting habitat for woodland bird species. Spring and fall migration periods offer the best opportunities for observing diverse species. Common woodland birds include woodpeckers, chickadees, nuthatches, and various warblers during migration.
Mammals: While large mammals are less common in this urban setting, the park provides habitat for smaller mammals including squirrels, chipmunks, and various mice species. White-tailed deer occasionally visit the park. The presence of old-growth trees with cavities supports populations of small mammals that depend on these features.
Insects: The diverse plant community supports a wide variety of insects including butterflies, moths, beetles, and bees. These insects play critical roles as pollinators and as food sources for birds and other wildlife. The park’s diversity of native plants is essential for supporting native insect populations.
Reptiles & Amphibians: The proximity to water features supports populations of frogs, toads, and salamanders. These amphibians serve as important indicators of ecosystem health.
Best Wildlife Viewing
- Early Morning: Dawn hours offer the best bird activity
- Spring Migration (April-May): Peak diversity of migrating bird species
- Fall Migration (September-October): Second migration period for birds
- Summer Mornings: Best time to observe breeding bird activity
- Quiet Observation: Moving slowly and quietly increases wildlife encounters
Safety & Preparedness
General Trail Safety
The Jacobus Park Nature Trail is generally safe for visitors of all ages. However, as with any outdoor activity, being prepared helps ensure an enjoyable experience.
- Let someone know your hiking plans and expected return time
- Carry a charged cell phone (service available in most areas)
- Stay on designated trails to avoid getting lost and to protect vegetation
- Watch your footing on natural surface trails, especially after rain
- Be aware of surroundings and other trail users
- Hike with a companion when possible
- Follow posted rules and regulations
Weather Hazards
Summer Storms: Southeastern Wisconsin can experience sudden thunderstorms during summer months. If you hear thunder or see lightning, seek shelter immediately. The trail offers limited overhead protection, so leave the area and seek substantial shelter (building or vehicle). Monitor weather forecasts before your visit during storm-prone seasons.
Heat & Humidity: Summer temperatures can reach 85°F or higher, with high humidity common in southeastern Wisconsin. Bring adequate water, take breaks in shaded areas, watch for signs of heat exhaustion (dizziness, nausea, excessive fatigue), and avoid midday heat during the warmest periods.
Cold Weather: Winter temperatures can drop below 20°F, with wind chill making conditions feel even colder. Dress in layers, protect extremities from frostbite, be cautious of icy trail conditions, and recognize that shorter daylight hours mean less time for hiking.
Natural Hazards
Insects: Mosquitoes are present during warmer months, particularly in the shaded, moist woodland environment. Ticks may also be encountered, especially in areas with tall grass or brush edges. Use insect repellent, wear long pants tucked into socks when tick activity is high, check for ticks after hiking, and be aware of tick-borne disease symptoms.
Poison Ivy: This common plant may be present in woodland edges and disturbed areas. Learn to identify poison ivy (leaves of three, let it be), stay on trails to minimize contact, and know how to treat exposure if it occurs.
Uneven Terrain: The trail includes some elevation changes and natural surface conditions. Watch your step on roots, rocks, and uneven ground, be especially careful when trails are wet or icy, and use caution on any steeper sections of the trail.
Wildlife Encounters
Wildlife encounters in Jacobus Park are generally safe and positive experiences. The park’s urban location means animals are often somewhat habituated to human presence, but proper etiquette should always be followed:
- Never feed wildlife – it’s harmful to animals and against regulations
- Observe animals from a distance; don’t approach or corner wildlife
- Keep dogs on-leash to prevent chasing wildlife
- Be extra cautious during spring when many animals have young
- Make noise to avoid surprising animals on the trail
Emergency Information
Emergency Contact: Call 911 for any emergency requiring immediate assistance.
Park Contact: Milwaukee County Parks: (414) 257-PARK (7275)
Location Information: If emergency services are needed, provide the address: 6501 W. Hillside Lane, Wauwatosa, WI 53213
Getting to Jacobus Park
Location & Address
Jacobus Park
6501 W. Hillside Lane
Wauwatosa, WI 53213
Milwaukee County
The park is located in the Wauwatosa community, immediately west of the City of Milwaukee, along the Honey Creek Parkway. The nature trail trailhead is accessible from W. Hillside Lane.
Driving Directions
From Downtown Milwaukee (East): Take I-94 West to exit 306 for WI-100 North. Follow WI-100 North for approximately 3 miles. Turn left onto W. North Avenue, then right onto N. 68th Street. Turn left onto W. Hillside Lane. Park entrance on right.
From Milwaukee Airport (Southeast): Take I-94 North toward Milwaukee. Exit onto I-894 West/US-45 North toward Madison/Fond du Lac. Take exit 1A for US-45 North toward Fond du Lac. Continue for approximately 8 miles, then exit onto W. North Avenue. Turn right onto N. 68th Street, then left onto W. Hillside Lane.
From Madison (West): Take I-94 East toward Milwaukee. Take exit 305A for WI-100 North. Follow WI-100 North for approximately 4 miles. Turn left onto W. North Avenue, then right onto N. 68th Street. Turn left onto W. Hillside Lane.
From Northern Suburbs: Take US-45 South toward Milwaukee. Exit onto W. North Avenue. Turn left onto N. 68th Street, then left onto W. Hillside Lane.
Parking
Free street parking is available along W. Hillside Lane and adjacent streets near the park entrance. Parking is first-come, first-served and can fill during busy times, particularly on pleasant weekend afternoons and during school field trips. Additional parking may be available along the Honey Creek Parkway.
- Arrive early on weekends for better parking availability
- Be considerate of neighborhood parking – follow posted restrictions
- Do not park in restricted zones or blocking driveways
- Consider visiting during weekday mornings for less crowded parking
- Lock valuables out of sight in your vehicle
Public Transportation
Milwaukee County Transit System (MCTS) provides bus service to the Wauwatosa area. Check the MCTS website or app for current routes and schedules serving the Wauwatosa area near Jacobus Park. The nearest bus routes typically serve North Avenue or other major corridors, requiring a walk to the park.
Cycling Access
Jacobus Park is accessible via bicycle through connections to the Oak Leaf Trail system. The Menomonee Branch of the Oak Leaf Trail passes along the Honey Creek Parkway adjacent to Jacobus Park. Cyclists can follow this paved multi-use trail to reach the park. Street parking on Hillside Lane accommodates bicycles.
The park’s connections to the Forked Aster Trail system also provide soft-surface cycling options for mountain bikes, linking to other county parks and natural areas.
Accessibility Information
The Jacobus Park Nature Trail includes some challenging elevation changes that may present difficulties for visitors with mobility limitations. The natural surface trail is not ADA-compliant. However, the adjacent Oak Leaf Trail paved pathway along Honey Creek Parkway offers accessible options for experiencing the park environment.
Visitors with accessibility concerns should contact Milwaukee County Parks at (414) 257-7275 for specific information about accessing the park’s various features.
Park Amenities & Facilities
While the nature trail itself focuses on preserving natural woodland, Jacobus Park offers various amenities that make it a well-rounded community recreation area:
Available Facilities
Restrooms
Public restrooms are available at the park, typically open during warm weather months (generally May through October). Availability may be seasonal, so plan accordingly during cold months.
Picnic Areas
Picnic tables are strategically located throughout the park. A reservable pavilion is available overlooking a lagoon for larger gatherings. Contact Milwaukee County Parks for pavilion reservations.
Playground
A children’s play area with modern equipment provides activities for young visitors. Redeveloped in 1998 with community funding, the playground offers a safe environment for family visits.
Wading Pool
A seasonal wading pool provides summer cooling opportunities for children. The pool typically operates during summer months (June-August) on warm days.
Athletic Field
A practice field provides space for informal sports and organized games. The field is available on a first-come basis when not reserved.
Pond
A small pond adds to the park’s natural beauty and provides tranquil scenery for relaxation and nature observation.
Trail Connections
Oak Leaf Trail: The 125-mile Milwaukee County Oak Leaf Trail system passes along the Honey Creek Parkway adjacent to Jacobus Park. This paved multi-use trail provides connections throughout Milwaukee County for cyclists, inline skaters, and pedestrians.
Forked Aster Trails: Jacobus Park is part of Milwaukee County’s Forked Aster Trail network of soft-surface nature trails. These trails connect various county parks and natural areas, allowing extended hiking and mountain biking experiences.
Educational Opportunities
The renovated trail system features durable stainless-steel interpretive signs with acid-etched graphics and text. These educational stations provide information about:
- Native plant communities and identification
- Forest ecology and ecosystem functions
- Wildlife habitat requirements
- Conservation practices and environmental stewardship
- Rare and endangered species protection
The interpretive signage makes Jacobus Park particularly valuable for school field trips and self-guided educational experiences. Teachers and parents can lead groups through the trail using the signs as teaching tools.
Nearby Attractions
Visitors to Jacobus Park can extend their outdoor experience by exploring other nearby Milwaukee County Parks facilities:
- Hoyt Park: 120+ acre park with pool, sports facilities, and trails
- County Grounds Park: Large open space with diverse habitats and extensive trail system
- Currie Park: Golf course and additional recreation opportunities
- Menomonee River Parkway: Scenic corridor with paved trails
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
No. Access to Jacobus Park and the nature trail is completely free. Milwaukee County Parks provides free public access to county parks and trails. Parking is also free along adjacent streets.
Yes, dogs are welcome but must be kept on-leash at all times. Milwaukee County Parks regulations require that dogs be on a leash no longer than 6 feet and that owners clean up after their pets. This policy helps protect sensitive natural areas and ensures a positive experience for all visitors.
Most visitors complete the one-mile loop in 20-30 minutes at a moderate pace. However, if you stop to read the interpretive signs, observe wildlife, or take photographs, plan for 45-60 minutes or more. The trail’s easy terrain makes it suitable for a quick nature walk or a more leisurely educational experience.
Each season offers unique experiences. Spring (April-May) brings wildflowers and migrating birds. Summer (June-August) offers full canopy shade and lush vegetation. Fall (September-October) provides spectacular autumn colors and comfortable temperatures – many consider this the optimal season. Winter is quieter and offers a different perspective, though the trail is not maintained for winter sports. Overall, spring through fall (April-October) provides the most comfortable conditions for most visitors.
Yes, the trail is family-friendly and suitable for children. The one-mile distance is manageable for most children, and the easy difficulty level makes it accessible for families. The educational signage provides learning opportunities, and the park’s playground and wading pool offer additional activities for young visitors. Parents should supervise children on the natural surface trail and be prepared for some elevation changes.
The nature trail is designated as a mixed-use trail suitable for walking, jogging, and biking. However, cyclists should be respectful of pedestrians, yield the right-of-way to hikers, ride at appropriate speeds for conditions and traffic, and stay on designated trails. For dedicated cycling, the adjacent Oak Leaf Trail paved pathway offers excellent biking opportunities.
Yes, public restrooms are available in Jacobus Park. However, they are typically open seasonally during warmer months (approximately May through October). Availability may be limited or closed during winter months. It’s recommended to plan accordingly, especially for visits during colder seasons.
Jacobus Park Nature Trail was designated as a National Recreation Trail in recognition of its recreational, educational, and conservation values. National Recreation Trails are part of the National Trails System and represent outstanding examples of trail resources that provide quality recreation opportunities. The designation recognizes the trail’s importance as an urban nature preserve, its educational value, and its role in providing public access to natural areas within the Milwaukee metropolitan area.
Yes, the park is home to several state-listed threatened and endangered plant species. However, these species are protected, and visitors must stay on designated trails and not disturb vegetation. The interpretive signage may provide information about these special species. The park’s conservation of rare species is one reason it’s considered ecologically significant. Simply knowing that you’re walking through habitat that supports rare species adds to the experience.
Essential Resources
Managing Agencies & Organizations
Milwaukee County Parks
Primary management agency for Jacobus Park. Contact for general information, pavilion reservations, and park conditions.
Address: 9480 W. Watertown Plank Road, Wauwatosa, WI 53226
Phone: (414) 257-PARK (7275)
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM – 4:00 PM
Visit Website →American Trails
National organization supporting trails. Features information about National Recreation Trails including Jacobus Park.
Visit Website →Discover Wauwatosa
Tourism information for Wauwatosa area, including Jacobus Park and other local attractions.
Visit Website →Visit Milwaukee
Regional tourism organization with information about Milwaukee County Parks and attractions.
Visit Website →Trail Information & Maps
AllTrails
User reviews, photos, and GPS tracks for Jacobus Park Loop. Check current trail conditions from recent visitors.
View on AllTrails →Milwaukee County Parks Map
Interactive map showing all Milwaukee County Parks facilities, trails, and amenities including Jacobus Park.
View Interactive Map →Oak Leaf Trail Information
Details about the 125-mile Oak Leaf Trail system that connects to Jacobus Park.
Learn More →Educational Resources
Wisconsin DNR – Native Plants
Information about Wisconsin native plants, including species found in Jacobus Park.
Learn More →Wisconsin Society for Ornithology
Resources for bird watching in Wisconsin, including species common to southeastern woodlands.
Visit Website →Leave No Trace Center
Educational resources about outdoor ethics and environmental stewardship principles.
Learn More →Transportation
Milwaukee County Transit System
Public bus service in Milwaukee County. Check routes and schedules for access to Wauwatosa area.
Plan Your Trip →Experience Urban Nature at Its Best
Jacobus Park Nature Trail offers a remarkable opportunity to experience native Wisconsin woodland ecology without leaving the city. This National Recreation Trail preserves a precious remnant of the forests that once covered southeastern Wisconsin, providing both a natural retreat and an outdoor classroom for visitors of all ages.
- One of the finest examples of undisturbed woodland in urban Milwaukee
- Over 160 native plant species including rare and endangered varieties
- Old-growth trees over 150 years old
- Educational interpretive signage throughout the trail
- Easy accessibility with free admission and parking
- Connections to regional trail systems for extended exploration
- Family-friendly with nearby playground and amenities
- Year-round access with seasonal variety
Whether you’re a local resident seeking a quick nature escape, a teacher planning an educational field trip, a nature enthusiast documenting native species, or a family looking for outdoor recreation, Jacobus Park Nature Trail welcomes you to explore, learn, and connect with the natural world.
How We Verify Trail Information
All information in this guide has been verified through multiple authoritative sources to ensure accuracy. We cross-reference data from official managing agencies, government resources, and reputable outdoor recreation platforms. Where sources disagree, we present ranges or note discrepancies. Information is regularly reviewed and updated as conditions change.
View Source References
Primary Sources:
- Milwaukee County Parks: Official managing agency
https://county.milwaukee.gov/EN/Parks - American Trails – Jacobus Park Nature Trail: National Recreation Trail documentation
https://www.americantrails.org/resources/jacobus-park-nature-trail-wauwatosa-wisconsin - Discover Wauwatosa: Official Wauwatosa tourism information
https://discoverwauwatosa.com/listing/jacobus-park/14213/ - Visit Milwaukee: Regional tourism authority
https://www.visitmilwaukee.org/listing/jacobus-park/13981/
Supporting Sources:
- AllTrails – Jacobus Park Loop: User reviews and current conditions
https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/wisconsin/jacobus-park-loop - Milwaukee County Parks – Oak Leaf Trail: Trail connections information
https://county.milwaukee.gov/EN/Parks/Explore/Trails/Oak-Leaf-Trail - Milwaukee County Parks – Dog Parks: Pet regulations
https://county.milwaukee.gov/EN/Parks/Explore/Dog-Parks - The Park Next Door: Community park information
https://www.theparknextdoor.com/jacobus-park.html - Wauwatosa Wiki – Charles C. Jacobus Park: Historical information
https://wauwatosa.fandom.com/wiki/Charles_C._Jacobus_Park
Last verified: October 2025. Trail conditions, regulations, and facilities may change. Always check with Milwaukee County Parks for the most current information before your visit.