Tuesday, May 3, 2011

Take A Hike: Devil's Lake State Park


Devils Doorway- Summer

For the feeling of being out west close to home, head down to Baraboo, WI and visit Devil's Lake State Park.   You can either visit for the day and hike around the entire lake in about 3-5 hours, or spend a weekend and reserve a campsite.  Each season has its own unique beauty, however, the view is spectacular in the fall usually around the third weekend in October to see the leaf color changes at its peak. 
If visiting for the day you can park either on the north or south side visitor center.  You will need to pay a daily parking fee or purchase an annual sticker at the South Side visitor center though.  The South side also has the biggest picnic and beach area where boats and canoes can be rented.  
Fall


If you are wanting more of a leisurely walk around the lake you can take the lower trail, called Tumbled Rocks, and then walk along the train tracks on the East side of the lake.  For those up for a steep climb and wanting to see Devil’s Doorway, take the upper trail called West and East Bluff Trail.   The trails are very well marked.  

Other activities at the park include 8 miles of off-road biking trails, fishing, cross-country skiing in winter, and you will often see rock climbers going up the bluffs.  If you are interested in climbing, there are numerous climbing instructors located within Baraboo that bring classes to the park.   

After a long hard day of hiking, don’t forget to head into historic Baraboo and make a visit to my favorite coffee shop, 
Coffee Bean Connection located on
4th street
downtown.    

Winter




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