Explore the natural wonders in and around Madison, courtesy of your own two feet! Check out this cool new book from Madison author Kevin Revolinski.

It's called 60 Hikes Within 60 Miles (of Madison), and it's published by Menasha Ridge Press, and it features hikes for those of you who consider a hike to the mailbox a long journey, and for those of you who are up for a (much) bigger challenge.

Here's a sneak peak of some of the hikes that I thought sounded pretty cool.

Governor Dodge State Park: I've seen the sign near Dodgeville before, but never knew that on the Lost Canyon Trail you can see a waterfall in a canyon and a cave in the bluffs..not to mention trees (okay, probably not a surprise) and a creek. I hate hikes where all you see is trees, trees, trees, so this one sounds like a good choice. (It's listed among the most scenic of the 60 hikes.) Oops it says the difficulty is moderate..so I think I might want to work up to that one.

Nine Springs E-Way Trail: This one is listed among the easy hikes, and isn't far from Madison. With the trailhead just off Moorland Road on the south side of Madison, Kevin writes that it includes wetlands, farmland and prairie, where you can see wildflowers, turkeys, and deer. And he tells you to check out the boardwalk opposite the parking lot. It extends into the marsh so you can get a good view of birds and other marsh lovin' critters. (Okay marsh lovin' critters is my term not his). I've actually been to this place when taking a break from a bike ride on the Capitol City trail..and it is absolutely picturesque.

Aztalan State Park: This park near Jefferson includes a 1.8 mile trail where you can see flowing water, prairie with some mixed forest..and here's the coolest part--Native American built earthen pyramids and mounds! (Again..more than just trees!)  Kevin says the hike is easy with a couple short moderate climbs.  It's located 3.2 miles from the intersection of highway 89 and I-94.

The book offers detailed directions to trailheads and practically step by step descriptions of what you'll see..plus nearby attractions to check out when you're finished hiking. It's available wherever fine books are sold!

Get more info here!