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Hike the East Bluff Trail to Devil's Doorway

Baraboo, Wisconsin

4.8/5
based on 6 reviews

Details

Distance

2.4 miles

Elevation Gain

500 ft

Route Type

Out-and-Back

Description

Added by Sonja Saxe

This is a short hike along the 500' quartzite cliffs in a beautiful southern Wisconsin state park with plenty of viewpoints overlooking the lake.

This hike begins at the east end of the North Shore Visitors' area. The hike starts relatively level before turning to the right and leading you up steps. The spectacular views come quickly on this hike as immediately after you reach the top steps you will be treated to your first glimpse of the lake from the bluffs. The trail continues to climb through the oak forest with many stopping points overlooking the lake along the way. If you have a hammock make sure to bring it as there are numerous spots to hang it, relax, and enjoy the sprawling views. At 1.1 miles the trail breaks and a short 0.1 mile hike will take you to the iconic Devil's Doorway. This is one of the most popular features in the park so expect company, but people come and go so frequently that if you wait it out you may catch a few moments of solitude. After you leave Devil's Doorway follow the trail back the way you came to meet back up with the main trail again.

From here you have a few options. First, you can turn back and return the way you came. Second, you can opt to descend to the south shore of the lake via the Balanced Rock Trail and then follow the railroad tracks back to the north shore. Finally, if you are feeling extra adventurous you can choose to follow the Balanced Rock Trail to the south shore and then hike the West Bluff Trail back and enjoy the views from the opposite side!

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Features

Chillin
Photography
Hiking
Adult Beverages
Bathrooms
Beach
Dog Friendly
Easy Parking
Family Friendly
Food Nearby
Forest
Lake
Picnic Area
Scenic

Hike the East Bluff Trail to Devil's Doorway Reviews

What more can I say? I am in absolute love with Devil's Lake State Park. From a photographer's perspective, it doesn't get much better than this. The scenery is incredible and the views are outstanding. The hike is easily worth it and is so much fun. I want to come back here many more times to continue experiencing the beauty it has to offer.

This hike surpassed my expectations. Being from the Midwest most hikes don't have much besides trees to see. This was beautiful! My small lazy dog even joined. We had to carry her in a carrier most the time but it was a great beginner hike. The trails are well maintained and pretty busy even on a cloudy day. It had rained most the weekend so it was a little slick and muddy but well worth it. I will definitely go back to explore more.

Went here with a few friends for the day. The views from the top are incredible, we set up some hammocks in the trees near by and hung out for an hour or so. If you're in the Dells or Baraboo area, you gotta stop at Devil's Lake!

Leave No Trace

Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

Nearby

Hike the Perimeter of Devil's Lake

Bouldering at Devil's Lake State Park in Wisconsin

Camp at Devils Lake State Park

Balanced Rock Trail at Devil's Lake

Potholes & CCC Trail Loop

Explore Pewit's Nest State Natural Area