Tribal Heritage Crossing of the Wiouwash Trail

About the Tribal Heritage Crossing

The Tribal Heritage Crossing of the Wiouwash Trail is a unique paved causeway spanning approximately one to one-point-eight miles across Lake Butte des Morts in Winnebago County, Wisconsin. Opened in July 2013 as part of the U.S. Highway 41/Interstate 41 expansion project and designated as a National Recreation Trail in 2015, this accessible pathway offers visitors an exceptional opportunity to experience both natural beauty and Indigenous cultural education.

The trail features thirteen informational kiosks that honor and educate visitors about Wisconsin’s eleven federally recognized Native American tribes, plus additional kiosks about Lake Butte des Morts history and the Offering Fire. These interpretive displays provide historical context, cultural information, and contemporary perspectives on the tribes whose ancestral lands encompass this region. The trail connects the Wiouwash State Trail to the north with the Oshkosh Riverwalk to the south, creating a seamless multi-use corridor for recreation and cultural appreciation.

Trail Experience

The Tribal Heritage Crossing offers a flat, easy walking or cycling experience suitable for all ages and abilities. The ten-foot-wide paved surface accommodates pedestrians, runners, cyclists, and inline skaters comfortably. The trail runs alongside the northbound lanes of I-41, separated by a protective barrier, and provides scenic views of Lake Butte des Morts and opportunities to observe diverse wildlife including herons, muskrats, white pelicans, cormorants, ducks, and eagles.

Despite its proximity to highway traffic, the trail offers a meaningful outdoor experience with regular interpretive kiosks positioned every few hundred feet. Two designated fishing spots along the crossing provide anglers with access to the lake’s varied fish populations. The trail’s gentle two percent average grade makes it accessible for wheelchairs, strollers, and adaptive recreation equipment.

Historical Context

The original Lake Butte des Morts causeway opened in 1955 to accommodate regional traffic growth. By the early 2000s, increasing traffic volume necessitated expansion. The Wisconsin Department of Transportation constructed an eight-lane crossing by widening to the west, with the new causeway opening in July 2013. As part of this modernization project, planners incorporated the Tribal Heritage Crossing trail to provide safe pedestrian and cyclist access while honoring the region’s Indigenous heritage.

In the 1850s, the Lake Butte des Morts waterway changed dramatically with an influx of new settlers and industry, including construction of two dams on the twin lower Fox River outlets of Lake Winnebago. These changes significantly altered the natural ecosystem that Native peoples had relied upon for generations. The trail’s interpretive kiosks acknowledge this history while celebrating the continuing presence and sovereignty of Wisconsin’s tribal nations.

Wildlife and Natural Environment

Lake Butte des Morts is a shallow freshwater lake that forms part of the Winnebago Pool lake system in east central Wisconsin. The lake spans approximately seven miles in length but only two miles at its maximum width. Surface water temperatures range from approximately thirty-three degrees Fahrenheit in winter to eighty degrees Fahrenheit in summer. The extensive littoral zone typically freezes in winter, creating habitat changes that support diverse seasonal wildlife.

Fish species found in the lake include walleye, drum, white bass, largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, carp, flathead catfish, channel catfish, northern pike, crappie, yellow perch, bluegill, and sturgeon. Wetland plants common in and around the lake include American lotus, common reed, and wild rice. The trail provides excellent opportunities for wildlife observation, particularly during spring and fall bird migrations.

Wisconsin’s Eleven Federally Recognized Tribes

The Tribal Heritage Crossing features educational kiosks honoring each of Wisconsin’s eleven federally recognized Native American tribes. These sovereign nations maintain government-to-government relationships with both the State of Wisconsin and the United States federal government. Each tribe has its own distinct history, culture, language traditions, and contemporary community.

The Eleven Federally Recognized Tribes of Wisconsin

Language Families Represented

Wisconsin is home to six Indigenous languages from three different language families: Algonquian (Menominee, Ojibwe, and Potawatomi), Iroquoian (Oneida), and Siouan (Ho-Chunk). Due to assimilation policies of the nineteenth and twentieth centuries, many American Indian people do not speak their indigenous languages today, but language revitalization efforts are active throughout Wisconsin’s tribal communities.

The Ho-Chunk Nation: People of the Big Voice

The Ho-Chunk Nation is unique among Wisconsin tribes in that it is not located on one continuous land base. Because of a treaty signed under suspicious conditions between the U.S. government and the tribe in the early 1800s, the Ho-Chunk were forced to cede much of their land. Later, the tribe was able to reclaim portions of its land across fourteen Wisconsin counties. The Ho-Chunk host two major powwows each year on Memorial Day and Labor Day, featuring cultural dancing, drumming competitions, and traditional food and crafts, with the public invited to attend.

The Six Chippewa Bands of Lake Superior

Six of Wisconsin’s federally recognized tribes are bands of the Lake Superior Band of Chippewa Indians, also referred to as the Anishinaabe, Chippewa, or Ojibwe. These groups were forced to migrate from present-day eastern Canada and the United States to what is now known as Madeline Island in Lake Superior. The 1854 Treaty of La Pointe with the United States federal government established reservations and set aside lands for traditional gathering practices.

Educational Resources

Wisconsin Act 31 is the statutory requirement that all school districts in Wisconsin provide instruction in the history, culture, and tribal sovereignty of the American Indian nations in the state. This requirement represents Wisconsin’s commitment to serve diverse communities and honor the American Indian tribes and bands who reside within Wisconsin’s borders. The Tribal Heritage Crossing serves as an important public educational resource supporting this mandate.

Trail Route Guide

Trail Overview

The Tribal Heritage Crossing spans Lake Butte des Morts utilizing the I-41/U.S. 41 bridge infrastructure. The trail runs approximately one to one-point-eight miles from the northern shore near the community of Butte des Morts to the southern shore near downtown Oshkosh. The paved causeway provides continuous, uninterrupted passage across the lake with interpretive stops along the way.

Northern Access Point

The northern terminus of the Tribal Heritage Crossing connects directly to the Wiouwash State Trail near Marine Drive. This junction provides access to the twenty-one-point-eight-mile Winnebago County section of the Wiouwash Trail, which continues north to Hortonville. Parking is available at the Westwind Trail Head parking lot and along Marine Drive. From this access point, the trail begins its gentle descent across the lake causeway.

Kiosk Locations and Features

As you traverse the crossing, thirteen educational kiosks are positioned every few hundred feet along the trail. The first eleven kiosks each feature one of Wisconsin’s federally recognized Native American tribes, providing historical information, cultural context, and contemporary perspectives. Each kiosk includes interpretive panels with text and imagery, offering visitors opportunities to learn at their own pace.

The twelfth kiosk focuses on Lake Butte des Morts history, explaining the lake’s ecological significance, its role in the Fox-Wisconsin Waterway system, and how development in the 1850s transformed the landscape. The thirteenth kiosk features information about the Offering Fire, a significant cultural concept and ceremonial practice.

Fishing Access Points

Two designated fishing spots are located along the crossing, providing anglers with direct access to Lake Butte des Morts. These overlooks feature open views of the water system and allow shore fishing for the lake’s diverse fish populations. The fishing areas are marked and accessible from the main trail path.

Tribal Flame Sculpture

Along the crossing, visitors will encounter the Tribal Flame lighted sculpture, a notable artistic feature that honors Indigenous heritage. This installation is particularly striking during evening hours and serves as a symbolic connection to the cultural themes presented throughout the trail.

Southern Access Point

The southern terminus connects to the Oshkosh Riverwalk near downtown Oshkosh. This access point can be reached from Rath Lane and Butte des Morts Drive, with parking available at nearby Two Brothers Restaurant and La Quinta hotel area. From here, visitors can continue south along the Oshkosh Riverwalk to explore the Fox River waterfront, University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh campus area, and downtown attractions.

Extended Trail Connections

The Tribal Heritage Crossing serves as a vital link in a larger regional trail network. The Wiouwash State Trail extends over forty-five miles total across four Wisconsin counties (Winnebago, Outagamie, Waupaca, and Shawano), following an abandoned railroad corridor. The trail name derives from the first two letters of each county. Near Clayton, the Wiouwash connects to the Friendship State Trail, providing access to Fox Cities Area trails.

Typical Trail Experience

A one-way crossing of the Tribal Heritage Trail takes approximately fifteen to thirty minutes for walkers, depending on pace and time spent at interpretive kiosks. Cyclists typically complete the crossing in five to ten minutes each direction. Many visitors choose to walk or cycle out-and-back, creating a two to three-and-a-half-mile round trip experience. The flat terrain and paved surface make this accessible for all fitness levels.

Planning Your Visit

Best Time to Visit

The Tribal Heritage Crossing is open year-round and accessible in all seasons, but visitor experience varies significantly with weather conditions.

Summer Season (June through August): This represents peak visitation time with the most comfortable conditions. Daytime temperatures range from seventy-five to eighty-five degrees Fahrenheit, with warm evenings ideal for after-dinner walks or evening bike rides. The lake is active with boaters and anglers, and wildlife is abundant. Summer brings approximately seven to nine days of precipitation per month, typically afternoon thunderstorms. This is the busiest tourist season in Oshkosh, so expect more trail traffic, particularly on weekends.

Spring Season (May): Late spring offers excellent trail conditions with moderate temperatures ranging from sixty to seventy-five degrees Fahrenheit. Migratory birds are active, making this prime time for wildlife observation. Fishing is particularly popular as walleye and other species move through the lake system during spawning runs. Precipitation is moderate with approximately five to seven days of significant rainfall monthly.

Fall Season (September through October): Early fall provides beautiful conditions with temperatures from seventy-five degrees in early September declining to fifty degrees by late October. Fall foliage enhances scenic views, and cooler temperatures make walking and cycling comfortable. By mid-October, visitor numbers decrease significantly, offering a quieter experience. Expect four to six days of precipitation monthly.

Winter Season (November through March): The trail remains open and maintained during winter, though conditions can be challenging. Temperatures range from the low thirties to below zero Fahrenheit. Snow and ice may accumulate on the paved surface, making walking or cycling hazardous without proper equipment or footwear with traction. However, winter offers unique opportunities to observe ice fishing on the lake (when safely frozen) and winter bird populations. Hardy visitors who dress appropriately can enjoy peaceful winter walks with minimal trail traffic.

Weather Considerations

Oshkosh experiences a humid continental climate with no dry season and warm summers. The area receives approximately four inches of precipitation annually across roughly one hundred forty rainy or snowy days. Temperatures vary dramatically throughout the year, from summer highs in the mid-eighties to winter lows in the teens or below zero Fahrenheit.

The warmest time of year is generally mid-July, with highs regularly around eighty-three degrees Fahrenheit and nighttime temperatures rarely dropping below sixty-three degrees Fahrenheit. The coldest period occurs in January, when average temperatures can remain below freezing for extended periods. Wind chill near the lake can make temperatures feel significantly colder in winter.

Time Required

Most visitors spend thirty minutes to two hours on the Tribal Heritage Crossing, depending on activity level and interest in interpretive kiosks.

• Quick Crossing: Fifteen to twenty minutes one-way at moderate walking pace without stopping
• Leisurely Educational Walk: Forty-five minutes to ninety minutes, reading all kiosk information
• Photography or Nature Observation: One to two hours for wildlife watching and capturing scenic views
• Cycling: Five to fifteen minutes each direction, depending on pace
• Fishing: Can extend visit to several hours at designated fishing spots

Permits and Fees

What to Bring

The trail’s short length and excellent accessibility mean minimal gear is required for most visits:

• Water bottle: Especially important in summer, as no water fountains are available on the crossing
• Sun protection: Hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen for exposed causeway
• Camera or smartphone: For capturing scenic views and documenting educational kiosks
• Comfortable walking shoes or cycling equipment: Paved surface requires no special footwear
• Binoculars: Optional but useful for wildlife and bird observation
• Light jacket: Even in summer, wind off the lake can create cooler conditions
• Fishing gear: If you plan to fish (must have valid Wisconsin license)

Conservation Guidelines

All visitors should follow Leave No Trace principles to protect the trail environment and preserve the experience for future users:

1. Carry In, Carry Out: No refuse containers are positioned along the crossing. Pack out all trash, including water bottles, food wrappers, and fishing line.
2. Stay on Designated Trail: Remain on the paved path and do not climb barriers or access areas not intended for public use.
3. Respect Wildlife: Observe animals from a distance, never feed wildlife, and avoid disturbing nesting or roosting birds.
4. Minimize Noise: Keep conversations at reasonable volume to preserve the experience for others and avoid disturbing wildlife.
5. Respect Cultural Sites: The interpretive kiosks and Tribal Flame sculpture honor Indigenous heritage. Treat these installations respectfully and do not vandalize or deface them.
6. Control Pets: Keep dogs on leash (maximum eight feet) at all times and clean up after pets immediately.
7. Share the Trail: Yield appropriately to other users, announce when passing, and be courteous to all visitors.

Access and Parking Information

Getting There

The Tribal Heritage Crossing is located in Winnebago County, Wisconsin, adjacent to Highway 41 at Oshkosh. The crossing is easily accessible from major regional routes.

From Downtown Oshkosh: Head north on Interstate 41/U.S. Highway 41. Take Highway 21 exit heading east through the roundabout to Butte des Morts Drive to Rath Lane for southern access. Alternatively, continue north to Marine Drive for northern access.

From Appleton/Green Bay Area: Take Interstate 41 south toward Oshkosh. Exit at Highway 21 or continue to Marine Drive exits as appropriate for your chosen access point.

GPS Coordinates: 44.05397°N, 88.57491°W (central point of crossing)

Parking Locations

Three primary parking areas serve the Tribal Heritage Crossing, all offering free parking:

Public Transportation

Oshkosh Transit System operates bus routes throughout the city, though direct service to the Tribal Heritage Crossing access points may be limited. Check current GO Transit schedules and routes for connections to nearby stops. The trail’s southern access near downtown Oshkosh is more readily accessible via public transit than the northern end.

Accessibility Features

Nearby Amenities

The trail’s proximity to Oshkosh provides convenient access to various services and attractions:

Near Southern Access: Downtown Oshkosh offers restaurants, hotels, convenience stores, and restrooms. Two Brothers Restaurant and La Quinta hotel are immediately adjacent to the southern trail access. The University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh campus is within one mile. The Oshkosh Public Museum, Paine Art Center and Gardens, and waterfront dining options are all within easy distance.

Near Northern Access: The northern area is more residential but connects to the extensive Wiouwash Trail system. Hortonville (approximately ten miles north on the Wiouwash Trail) offers additional services.

Oshkosh Area Attractions: Visitors to the Tribal Heritage Crossing may also enjoy the EAA Aviation Museum (home of Airventure), Menominee Park Zoo, Oshkosh Farmers Market, Fox River waterfront activities, and fishing opportunities on the Lake Winnebago system.

Trail Activities

Permitted Activities

The Tribal Heritage Crossing accommodates a variety of non-motorized recreational activities, making it a versatile destination for diverse user groups.

Walking and Hiking

The Tribal Heritage Crossing provides an excellent walking experience for individuals, families, and groups. The flat, paved surface requires no special footwear or equipment, making it accessible for casual walkers. The moderate length (one to one-point-eight miles) allows for a comfortable out-and-back walk of two to three-and-a-half miles total, achievable in thirty minutes to ninety minutes depending on pace and stops at interpretive kiosks.

Many locals use the trail for daily exercise, morning walks, or evening strolls. The educational kiosks provide mental engagement during the walk, making each crossing an opportunity to learn something new about Wisconsin’s Indigenous heritage. Benches or rest areas near some kiosks allow visitors to pause and absorb the information comfortably.

Running and Training

The trail’s flat profile and measured distance make it popular among runners for training purposes. The paved surface provides consistent footing without obstacles, suitable for everything from easy recovery runs to tempo workouts. Runners training for 5K races or longer distances can incorporate the crossing into longer routes by connecting to the Wiouwash Trail or Oshkosh Riverwalk. The lack of vehicle traffic (separated from highway by barrier) creates a safer environment than roadside running.

Cycling

Cyclists of all abilities enjoy the Tribal Heritage Crossing, from families with young children to serious road cyclists. The ten-foot width accommodates cycling traffic in both directions comfortably. Road bikes, hybrid bikes, cruisers, and mountain bikes are all suitable for the paved surface. The crossing serves as an excellent segment of longer rides connecting Oshkosh to northern communities via the Wiouwash Trail system.

Cyclists should exercise courtesy by announcing when passing pedestrians, maintaining controlled speeds, and being particularly careful near interpretive kiosks where walkers may stop unexpectedly. Early morning and weekday visits typically offer less crowded conditions for cyclists preferring higher speeds.

Fishing

Lake Butte des Morts offers diverse fishing opportunities, and the Tribal Heritage Crossing provides convenient shore access at two designated fishing spots. The lake is part of the larger Lake Winnebago system, one of Wisconsin’s premier fisheries. Anglers can target walleye, white bass, largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, northern pike, crappie, yellow perch, bluegill, and other species depending on season.

Spring brings particularly good fishing as walleye move through the lake system during spawning runs. The I-41 bridge area mentioned in the crossing’s construction can hold post-spawn walleye returning from the Wolf River marshes. All Wisconsin fishing regulations apply, including licensing requirements, size limits, bag limits, and seasonal restrictions. Check current Wisconsin DNR regulations before fishing.

Wildlife and Bird Watching

The crossing’s position over Lake Butte des Morts creates excellent opportunities for wildlife observation. Commonly sighted species include great blue herons, white pelicans, cormorants, various duck species, Canada geese, muskrats, and occasionally bald eagles. Spring and fall migrations bring increased bird diversity. Visitors bringing binoculars can observe wildlife from the trail without disturbing natural behaviors.

Early morning and evening hours typically offer the best wildlife viewing opportunities when animal activity is highest and human traffic is lowest. Patient observers may spot fish rising to the surface, turtles basking on exposed structures, or aerial displays by hunting birds.

Photography

Photographers find diverse subjects along the Tribal Heritage Crossing. Landscape opportunities include sunrise and sunset views over the lake, dramatic sky reflections in the water, and seasonal changes in the surrounding wetlands. Wildlife photography is possible for birds, aquatic mammals, and fish. The interpretive kiosks and Tribal Flame sculpture provide cultural and artistic subjects. The bridge structure itself, with its engineering and architectural features, appeals to urban landscape photographers.

Golden hour (shortly after sunrise or before sunset) provides particularly beautiful lighting conditions for photography. Spring and fall offer more dramatic skies and interesting weather patterns compared to summer’s stable conditions.

Safety Information

General Trail Safety

The Tribal Heritage Crossing is considered a safe, family-friendly trail with minimal hazards. However, visitors should observe standard outdoor recreation safety practices.

Multi-Use Trail Etiquette

The trail accommodates walkers, runners, cyclists, and inline skaters simultaneously. Proper trail etiquette ensures everyone’s safety and enjoyment.

• Stay Right: Keep to the right side of the trail, allowing space for others to pass on the left
• Pass on Left: When overtaking others, pass on the left and announce your presence (“On your left!”)
• Be Predictable: Avoid sudden stops or direction changes without checking behind you first
• Control Speed: Cyclists and inline skaters should maintain speeds appropriate for conditions and trail traffic
• Groups Stay Together: Don’t spread across the entire trail width; maintain single file when others are present
• Leashed Pets: Keep dogs on short leash (maximum eight feet), under control, and to one side of the trail
• Be Aware: Limit earbud/headphone volume to maintain awareness of your surroundings

Emergency Contacts

Water Quality and Lake Safety

Lake Butte des Morts is classified as eutrophic with impaired water quality according to Wisconsin DNR assessments. The lake has elevated levels of phosphorus, mercury, and PCBs, along with low dissolved oxygen in some areas. Water typically appears murky brown or green with high turbidity. Large algal blooms occur seasonally, and elevated E. coli populations occasionally make water unsafe for contact.

While fishing is permitted and popular, visitors should be aware of fish consumption advisories for mercury and PCBs. Check current Wisconsin DNR guidance for specific species consumption recommendations. Do not swim in the lake or allow children to play in the water. If you do have water contact, wash exposed skin with clean water as soon as possible.

Severe Weather

Northeastern Wisconsin experiences significant weather variability and occasional severe conditions. Be prepared for changing weather and know how to respond to various scenarios.

Thunderstorms: Summer afternoon thunderstorms can develop quickly. The causeway offers no shelter from lightning. If you see lightning or hear thunder, seek shelter immediately. The nearest substantial shelter is at either end of the crossing (vehicles, buildings). Do not remain on the exposed causeway during electrical storms.

Extreme Heat: Summer temperatures can exceed ninety degrees Fahrenheit with high humidity, creating heat index values over one hundred degrees. The exposed causeway offers no shade. Signs of heat exhaustion include heavy sweating, weakness, dizziness, nausea, and headache. If experiencing these symptoms, move to shade or air conditioning, drink water, and rest. Seek medical attention if symptoms worsen.

Winter Conditions: Wind chill near the lake can create dangerously cold conditions even when air temperature is moderate. Frostbite can occur on exposed skin within minutes in severe wind chill. Dress in layers, cover all exposed skin, and limit exposure time. Ice on the trail creates fall hazards; use traction devices on footwear when icy conditions exist.

Facilities and Amenities

Restrooms: A seasonal ADA-compliant porta-potty is located approximately midway along the crossing. This facility is typically available from late spring through early fall but may not be serviced during winter months. No running water or permanent restroom facilities exist on the trail itself. Nearest permanent restrooms are in downtown Oshkosh at public buildings, restaurants, or businesses.

Water: No potable water sources exist along the Tribal Heritage Crossing. Bring adequate water for your planned activity, particularly during warm weather. The trail’s short length means most visitors can complete their experience with one water bottle, but longer excursions combining the crossing with extended Wiouwash Trail or Riverwalk segments require additional hydration planning.

First Aid: No first aid stations exist on the trail. Carry basic personal first aid supplies if desired. Nearest emergency medical services are accessible via 911 call, with ambulance response from Oshkosh Fire Department.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Essential Resources & Links

Official Management & Information

Wisconsin Tribal Resources

Recreation & Fishing Resources

Maps and Planning Tools

Experience Wisconsin’s Indigenous Heritage

The Tribal Heritage Crossing offers a unique combination of outdoor recreation, cultural education, and natural beauty. This accessible trail welcomes visitors of all abilities to learn about Wisconsin’s Native American tribes while enjoying scenic views of Lake Butte des Morts.

Whether you’re seeking a quick outdoor break, an educational experience about Wisconsin’s Indigenous peoples, or a connection point to longer trail adventures, the Tribal Heritage Crossing welcomes you. Respect the land, honor the heritage, and enjoy the journey.