Hiking at Devil’s Lake State Park

Helpful Hints and Stuff to Know Before You Go

With almost 30 miles of trail at Devil’s Lake, and several miles of those trails traversing up and over steep bluffs, it can be hard to know where to start exploring! There is a wide variety of trails here, and something for every level of experience, from the technical trails that go over 500-foot bluffs to wooded and quiet nature trails to the popular Tumbled Rocks, following the west side of the lake. We’ve gathered a few tools to help visitors plan your hiking adventures at Devil’s Lake. Before lacing up your boots, check out the tools below to help you get on the right track!

Hiking Trail Map (DNR)
Hiking Trail Selector Tool
Hiking Trail Descriptions (DNR)

Tips for Hiking at Devil’s Lake

While heavily trafficked, the trails at Devil’s Lake State Park are no joke! Please be prepared when heading out to hike. Here are a few simple reminders to keep yourself safe, keep everyone in your group safe, and be a considerate hiker while at Wisconsin’s busiest park.

Hiking tips at Devil’s Lake:

  • Bring drinking water. Water is available at the north shore and south shore, but there is no water on the top of the bluffs or at Steinke Basin. Always drink water while hiking, even in the winter. Don’t forget to hydrate your pets, too.

  • Wear proper footwear. The rocks can be slick and good footwear is essential. Flip flops are not appropriate for hiking these trails. Consider a good hiking boot, athletic shoe, or something with traction.

  • Use caution at ledges. The rocks can move and falls happen. Be careful about getting that “perfect shot” for social media - it’s not worth it. Accidents happen here, so use caution when getting close to the edge.

  • Pack in, pack out. There is no trash pickup along the trail; you are responsible for packing out anything that you bring in. Please, do not litter along the trail. Banana peels, Kleenex, bottles and cans, snack wrappers, dog poop bags, and other items are not appropriate to be left on the trails. Put your trash in your pack and throw it out when you return to your vehicle.

  • Enjoy the sounds of nature - be considerate. Please do not play music through speakers. It disrupts other hikers and wildlife.

  • Know where you’re going. There is very limited to no cell service in most of the park. Grab a park map, download an offline map on your phone, take screenshots, but do not rely on phones to help you.

  • Many of the trails at Devil’s Lake are technical and exposed. This means that the trails are not protected by railings or vegetation. As you hike trails like the Balanced Rock Trail, Potholes Trail, or the CCC Trail, you are exposed to the talus field below. Use hiking poles (check some out for free from the Nature Center), stop for rest breaks (and enjoy the view!), and go slowly. Take each step carefully. The trails can be busy, but no one wants an emergency rescue. Step off to the side if you need to let other, faster hikers pass.

  • If you have any emergencies while on the trail, call 911 if possible.

After a hike at Devil’s Lake, you’ll feel awed, exhausted, and accomplished! Have fun, be safe, and know before you go!

The Ice Age Trail

Devil’s Lake includes about 13 miles of Ice Age Trail, the only National Scenic Trail that is wholly in one state! This 1200-mile trail follows the edge of the last continental glacier in Wisconsin. The trail connects the state east to west, terminating at Interstate Park on the Minnesota border and Potawatomi State Park on Lake Michigan, weaving across the state.

One of only 11 National Scenic Trails, the Ice Age Trail (IAT) is a premier hiking trail and conservation resource for silent sport and outdoor enthusiasts. The trail traverses some of Wisconsin’s most scenic landscapes and helps tell the story of the last Ice Age by highlighting Wisconsin's unique glacial features.

You can pick up the IAT at Parfrey’s Glen. There are multiple IAT parking lots close to or in Devil’s Lake. Baraboo is an Ice Age Trail Community, with stops in town to support thru-hikers.

Learn more about the Ice Age Trail.

Please note: Devil’s Lake State Park contains an active rail line. The railroad tracks are not a designated trail. It is illegal to trespass along the railroad right-of-way. Only cross the tracks in designated locations. Please follow the maps that are designated on DNR trail maps and signs.