Mequon sits on the western shore of Lake Michigan, about 15 miles north of Milwaukee. About 25,142 people lived here at the 2020 census. Roughly half of the city’s land is still farmland or open space, so outdoor activity is part of daily life. The city has more than two dozen parks, plus county parks, a long bike trail, and a large nature preserve. This guide covers the best places to play, walk, and watch. Hours and facilities change, so check before you go.
Mequon Nature Preserve
The Mequon Nature Preserve covers 444 acres at 8200 West County Line Road. The city created it with the Ozaukee Washington Land Trust and the Greater Milwaukee Foundation. It offers hiking, bird watching, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing. An observation tower gives you a view over restored prairie and wetland. Bring layers in winter, since January highs average only about 27 degrees. Read More about the city and its open space.
Ozaukee Interurban Trail
The Ozaukee Interurban Trail runs through the city for about 5.85 miles. It follows an old rail line that carried passengers between Milwaukee and Sheboygan from 1907 to 1948. Today it is a paved path for walking, running, and biking. It connects Mequon to Cedarburg in the north and Brown Deer in the south, where it meets Milwaukee County’s Oak Leaf Trail. New crossing lights now help trail users cross Mequon Road.
Lemke Park
Lemke Park covers 41 acres in southwestern Mequon. It has soccer fields, a baseball diamond, a volleyball court, an archery range, a playground, and picnic tables. A pavilion holds about 90 people, and the park has restrooms during regular hours. It works well for youth games and family picnics.
River Barn Park
River Barn Park covers 37 acres along the Milwaukee River in southern Mequon. It has baseball, soccer, and football fields, plus a playground. Youth leagues use it in spring and fall. The city has a master plan to improve the park, so expect changes over time.
Rotary Park
Rotary Park covers 75 acres in northern Mequon. It has a basketball court, baseball diamonds, soccer fields, fishing ponds, and walking paths. Pukaite Woods, an accessible nature trail, sits inside the park. A large pavilion holds about 150 people. Rotary Club members have also worked with the city on an all-user playground.
Mequon Community Park and Pool
Mequon Community Park covers 16 acres just south of Thiensville. It has a swimming pool, a baseball diamond, a picnic area, and a playground. It also gives access to the Interurban Trail. Check the city website for pool hours and rules.
Virmond County Park
Virmond Park covers 63 acres on Lake Michigan. It is an Ozaukee County park with volleyball and tennis courts, a baseball diamond, a soccer field, and a picnic area. Lake views make it a favorite on sunny days.
Mee-Kwon Park
Mee-Kwon Park is a county park in northern Mequon. It includes a public golf course, a fishing pond, and a sledding hill. Golfers play here in summer, and families sled here after snow.
Dogs, Paddlers, and Walkers
Katherine Kearney Carpenter Park, at 801 West Zedler Lane, is a dog park with walking trails. Riverview Park and Garrison’s Glen have canoe launches on the Milwaukee River. Donges Bay Gorge has beach frontage and trails along a ravine. Spirit Lake offers trails and wildlife viewing.
Programs and Leagues
The Mequon-Thiensville Recreation Department offers classes and programs for kids and adults. The Mequon-Thiensville Bikefest offers a mapped bike route. An ice center in the area serves skaters and hockey players. Check each program’s website for registration dates.
Local Sports Names
Hank Aaron moved his family to Mequon in 1954 while playing for the Milwaukee Braves. Local athletes include NHL player Anders Bjork, NBA player Mike Dunleavy Jr., and MLB player Owen Miller. Homestead High School teams play as the Highlanders.
Tips for Active Days
- City parks are open from dawn to dusk.
- Reserve pavilions through the Parks office at 262-236-2913.
- Bring water, sunscreen, and bug spray in summer.
- Dress in layers for winter trail days.
- Check weather before you leave, since storms can move in from the lake.
A Sample Weekend
Start Saturday with a morning walk at the Nature Preserve. Spend the afternoon at a ball game at Rotary Park. On Sunday, bike the Interurban Trail and end with a picnic at Lemke Park.
Final Thoughts
Mequon gives you room to move. Pick a park, bring a friend, and enjoy the open space.
