Most people visit Wisconsin Dells during the summer to spend time at the world-famous waterparks. But, there is much more than meets the eye in The Waterpark Capital of the World. Travel beyond the waterslides and wave pools, and you will discover the natural side of the Dells. The natural landscape of the Dells includes dramatic sandstone cliffs, narrow canyons, and rivers that can be discovered on nearby hiking trails. There are three state parks within 30 minutes away from the Dells and easily accessible from our Sand County Vacation Rentals. Read on to find where you can find the best hiking near Wisconsin Dells and explore the great outdoors this summer!
Rocky Arbor State Park
Rocky Arbor State Park is just a mile out of town and offers a beautiful one-mile nature trail. This hike is perfect for families who want a quick getaway from the city. Make sure to keep an eye out for wildlife along the Rocky Arbor Loop, such as deer and chipmunks.
Dells of the Wisconsin River State Natural Area
The Dells of the Wisconsin River SNA includes a five-mile gorge with some of the most scenic trails in the area. The Chapel Gorge Trail is two miles long and winds through hardwood forests until you reach a secluded beach shore. This natural area also includes the Witches Gulch hiking trail, where you can walk the path through a glacier canyon. It’s important to note that this trail can only be reached with Dells Boat Tours.
Mirror Lake State Park
Make the short drive to nearby Baraboo to access two beautiful state parks. Mirror Lake State Park includes 19 miles of hiking trails and a popular lake for swimming and paddling. We recommend taking the Echo Rock Trail for a vista of the lake before continuing on the Ishnala Trail.
Devil’s Lake State Park
Devil’s Lake State Park is situated along the Ice Age National Scenic Trail, a route that follows the edge of the last glacier in Wisconsin. This Wisconsin state park includes 30 miles of trails that include vistas, woods, meadows, glacial moraines, and backwoods. Don’t miss the East Bluff Loop trail, where you will hike up bluffs and end with views of the water and surrounding hills. If you are searching for a more leisurely route with less incline, we recommend the Tumbled Rocks trail, where you can stroll through piled boulders.
Discover Wisconsin Dells Vacation Rentals
Hiking near Wisconsin Dells is an excellent way to get outside and explore the area’s natural beauty this summer. Stay close to the Dells and take a short hike at Rocky Arbor State Park or drive to nearby Baraboo for unlimited access to Devil’s Lake State Park trails. Sand County Vacation Rentals offers properties in the Dells and the surrounding areas, including Baraboo. Browse our Wisconsin vacation rentals and plan your getaway in the Dells today!