Hiestand Park

Hiestand Park is a large community park located on the east side of Madison, Wisconsin. The park encompasses 46.27 acres and is adjacent to Hiestand Woods Conservation Park, providing a significant green space for the neighborhood.

Originally part of the Hiestand family farm, the park has grown from a few acres in 1970 to its current size. It is named after the Hiestand family, who were notable in Wisconsin's agricultural history for being the first to successfully grow tobacco as a cash crop in the state.

The park features diverse recreational amenities catering to various interests. One of its most popular attractions is the disc golf course, which is open from spring through fall. The course offers dual tee pads and multiple basket placements, providing challenges for players of different skill levels. It's worth noting that the disc golf course requires a city permit to play.

Hiestand Park is also known for its sledding hill, affectionately referred to as "Radar Hill" by locals. This nickname stems from the hill's past use as a site for the "Truax Communications Facility Annex" operated by the U.S. Air Force. The hill's elevation makes it a popular spot for winter recreation.

The park includes reservable athletic fields, often used for sports like soccer. A bike path connects the park to the surrounding neighborhood, enhancing accessibility for residents. The park also features a picnic shelter equipped with solar lighting, which can be reserved for gatherings.

For families, Hiestand Park offers a playground, providing a space for children to play and explore. The park's layout, with its rolling hills and mature trees, creates a pleasant environment for walking, jogging, or simply enjoying nature.

It's important to note that while Hiestand Park offers many amenities, it is distinct from the adjacent Hiestand Woods Conservation Park, which has its own set of rules and features focused more on nature preservation.