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Olin Park and Turville Point Conservation Park

Olin Park Details

Offering some of the best views of downtown Madison, Olin Park, located on the shores of Lake Monona is convenient, accessible and affordable. The reservable restored historic pavilion is perfect for events and seats up to approximately 150 guests. 

There are an abundance of recreational outlets for the entire family such as a soccer field, baseball diamond, walking paths, and playground equipment.  Swim or soak up some sun on the welcoming beach, take an enjoyable jog on the trail, or go biking through the park and up and around the Capitol. 

Turville Point Conservation Park

This natural gem borders the shores of Lake Monona, a short walk from downtown.  Large red, bur and white oak provide the canopy under which a variety of spring wildflowers bloom.  A seven acre prairie opening adds to the diversity of the site.  Adjacent to Olin Park which has restrooms and a parking lot. 


    The Walk

    A three mile walk along a hilly and heavily wooded park using a narrow footpath makes this walk closer to nature than others in this series.  Come around a curve and be startled by the beautiful views of Madison and the University.

    Length of Walk

    A 3 mile walk will allow you to circumnavigate Turville Point Conservancy.  Plan to rest or lunch on the hillside benches in Olin Park  while you take in the spectacular views of the cityscape.,  

    Trail Conditions & Accessibility 

    The Turville Point Conservation Park trails are not suited for those who have mobility challenges. 

    However, Olin Park does provide access to picnic tables, and cityscape viewing areas.

    Remember to bring:

      • binoculars, 
      • walking stick
      • Mosquito spray 
    The Turville Point trails can be muddy and slippery following a rain.


    Driving and Parking Information:

    Park at the Turville Point parking lot  (or  the Olin Boat Launch parking lot) across from John Nolen Drive at the railroad track

    Additional Information

        • Several maps of the park  and conservancy are available at the kiosks in each parking area.


    Comments or questions about the walks?

    This self-guided walk was developed from a list of successful docent-led walks Carla and I and other faithful volunteers have conducted over the last four years.  I will be adding more to the list as the pandemic continues to keep us isolated.  Building these self-guided walk is very much a "work in progress".  If you have ideas for improving communications about the walks or additional information I could provide, please let me know.

    If you have a favorite walk please drop a note and I'll get back to you shortly.  Please mark the subject line of the email "PLATO Walks" so that I can get to them quickly.

    Mike DiIorio at mdiiorio1234@gmail.com or text me at 608 520 4448.

    I hope you enjoy the walks. Stay healthy, stay safe.


    PLATO is proudly supported in part by Oakwood Village.


    PLATO is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization in association with:

    for more information, contact us at:

    info@platomadison.org

    608-572-6869

    6209 Mineral Point Road #203
    Madison, WI 53705

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