Devil’s Lake State Park is a must-visit if you want to experience some of Wisconsin’s most breathtaking natural scenery and top hiking routes.
Since there are no mountains in America’s Dairyland, hiking at high altitudes is also not really a thing there. Wisconsin makes up for its lack of height, however, with unspoiled hardwood forests, miles of lakeshore, and unusual rock formations, all of which are located within the boundaries of Devil’s Lake State Park.
In fact, Wisconsin’s most visited state park is Devil’s Lake because of how stunning it is. It’s all due to the hiking routes that ascend 500-foot quartzite bluffs and the autumn’s vibrant foliage. However, there are more worthwhile activities here besides hiking! The park’s numerous picnic spaces, sandy lakefront, and contemporary campgrounds are all available to visitors.
Even the most experienced hiker will be enthralled by these outstanding hiking routes in Devils Lake State Park, which rank among the best in the state.
East Bluff Loop, first
Why you ought to go A well-liked hiking route that offers expansive lake vistas and traverses the eastside bluffs.
The most well-liked hike in Devil’s Lake is the East Bluff Loop, and for good reason. With the exception of one section with a steep ascent, the trail is not especially challenging. However, it just takes a quarter of a mile to reach the top of the bluff.
But after wiping your brow at the summit, you’ll be rewarded with stunning views of the surroundings. This route crosses paths with other well-liked hikes in the park as it follows the lake’s east side bluff. As you finish the loop, keep an eye out for Elephant Cave and Elephant Rock.
West Bluff Trail 2.
Why you ought to go a path leading to the park’s highest point along the top of the western bluffs.
Visit the West Bluff Trail to see the lake from a new angle. Starting the loop on the north or south side of the lake gives you a choice of two distinct experiences. Stone stairs must be climbed on the north end, while a steep climb must be climbed on the south end.
There are a lot of undulating ups and downs on the West Bluff Trail, which could be difficult for some. Aside from the breathtaking vista, the highlight of this path is the chance to see the distinctive rock formations at Prospect Point and Cleopatra’s Needle in the park.
3. West Bluff to Devil’s Lake Loop
Why you ought to go Hikers can traverse a sizable loop that circles Devil’s Lake’s shoreline.
The lake is displayed in all its splendour from the Devil’s Lake via West Bluff Trail. What more could you want for when it has enormous boulders, steep bluffs, and lake views? There are numerous challenging climbs along the way because this path leads hikers up and over the cliffs on both sides. However, those that complete the entire loop are rewarded with panoramic views of the surroundings.
The trailhead is close to a section of beach where you can cool yourself before or after starting your hike. It does run alongside a few other hiking paths because it is the park’s largest loop. Along the way, you pass notable sites including the Balanced Rock.
Devil’s Doorway Trail, No. 4
Why you ought to go Another renowned rock feature in the park is reached after an adventurous trial.
The Devil’s Doorway Trail, so named because it descends to a little arch made of a jumble of boulders from the East Bluff, is a brief loop. Less than a quarter-mile must be hiked to get reach the doorway from the East Bluff. With a clear view of the tranquil lake waters behind it, Devil’s Doorway is wonderfully framed by trees.
This walk traverses small rock ledges and takes many people about an hour to complete, therefore care should be exercised. Since the Devil’s Doorway Trail isn’t well marked, many hikers advise taking the CCC trail markers on the way down.
Balanced Rock Trail 5.
Why you ought to go There is a well-known trail that leads to Devil’s Lake’s most famous view.
The East Bluff is reached at the top of the Balanced Rock Trail, which is a steep and difficult hike. Technically an out and back, the track is actually relatively short. The East Cliff Trail, a comparatively flat walk across the bluff top, is where most hikers carry on.
Before you reach the summit, you can enjoy views of the Balanced Rock, which is a lovely little diversion from the difficult ascent. This is one of the park’s busiest routes, and the summer and fall may be very crowded there. A sizable boulder that fell and landed perfectly balanced on a pedestal facing the lake is known as Balanced Rock in the park.
6. Trail to Devil’s Lake Grottos
Why you ought to go An easy stroll takes you through the forest to the south bank of the lake.
The Devil’s Lake Grottos Trail is a tranquil hiking path that gives visitors access to many other amazing park locations. The Grottos Trail itself is a broad gravel trail that runs parallel to the East Bluff. The path begins at the lake and finishes at the CCC parking lot, and it is primarily shaded by the nearby forests.
Additionally, it links to the Potholes Trail, which is worthwhile detouring to view because of the historic potholes that were worn by rushing water. The short CCC route has steep stone steps that climb to the top of the bluff and is also accessible via Grottos. Hikers can even stray to the renowned Balanced Rock if they’re interested.
7. Trail of Tumbled Rock
Why you ought to go A one-hour hike along a paved, open trail that follows the shore of the lake.
For hikers looking for a leisurely stroll or for families, the Tumbled Rock Trail is ideal. Throughout your trek, you can awe at the close-up views of the lake and bluff. The walk is so near to the lake that you may, if you’d like, dip your feet in or take a little swim.
Additionally, as the name suggests, this trail climbs the side of the cliffs and goes by big rocks that are strewn everywhere around the lake. Since there are so many rocks and stones, these are essentially what set this trial apart. If you have a dog that can’t manage the steep hills, this trail is also fantastic for you, just keep your pet on a leash.
Uplands Trail 8.
Why you should go: The area around the lake has a less-traveled hiking track through farmland and forests.
The Uplands Trail is a special approach to see the scenery near and distant from Devil’s Lake’s actual shoreline. This loop offers a longer hiking experience than many other trails inside the state park area because it is approximately four miles long.
The main features of this trail are thickets of hardwoods and sprawling meadows. There are, however, a few vantage spots from where you may see the Wisconsin River. Depending on the weather, mountain riding is allowed on the Uplands Trail. For even more hiking enjoyment, check out the adjacent Steinke Basin Loop.
9. Devil’s Lake to Parfrey’s Glen on the Ice Age Trail
Why you ought to go a lengthy stretch of the Ice Age Trail that leads to a gorge with a waterfall that is 100 feet tall.
The Ice Age Trail connects Devil’s Lake and Parfrey’s Glen for those looking for a lengthier hike. The approximately 1,200-mile national Ice Age Trail in Wisconsin is a thrilling path that circles the state. It displays the stunning topography that glaciers carved out when they once writhed across the state. The Devil’s Lake and Sauk Point sections of the national trail are both followed on this specific trek.
You’ll come across several rises, patches of woods, and a county highway crossing on your trip. Either a point-to-point hike or a circle that covers almost 17 miles can be completed. At the conclusion of your lengthy journey, you will traverse Parfrey’s Glen, a rocky and mossy ravine. The trail of this broad valley is surrounded by enormous boulders, sandstone cliff walls, and a tranquil stream.
10. Trail to Pewit’s Nest
Why you should go: There is a renowned, steep gorge on a short but delightful trip outside of the state park.
The magnificent Pewit’s Nest Trail is located less than ten minutes’ drive from Devil’s Lake. Despite requiring little effort or stamina, this trail is well worth the drive. A clearly indicated dirt road through the woods leads to the amazing sandstone formations from the parking lot.
The gorge is roughly 40 feet deep, with a flowing stream, many cascades, and pools of water. The ravine may be seen in just 20 minutes, but because of its close proximity to Devil’s Lake, it makes a great side trip.