Tower Hill State Park Shot Tower Trail

High above the Wisconsin River, Tower Hill preserves an unusual chapter of nineteenth-century industry. A woodland walk leads toward the historic shot tower site, where molten lead once dropped through a vertical shaft to form ammunition pellets.

The surrounding hills and river valley make the story even more compelling. Rather than a museum tucked into a town, this landmark sits within a wooded state park, turning a short hike into an encounter with engineering history and the geography that made it possible.

ONCE YOU’RE THERE

Enter the state park at its signed entrance, park in the public lot, and follow official trail signs toward the shot tower exhibit. Respect any closures of the tower building or shaft.

LOCAL INTEL

The nearby Wisconsin River landscape is part of the story: the elevated terrain helped make the shot-making process possible.

GOOD TO KNOW

Never enter fenced-off shafts or structures; historic access may be seasonal or limited.

FEES & ACCESS

Wisconsin state park vehicle admission sticker required.

BEST TIME TO GO

Spring through autumn for easiest trail conditions.