Devil's Doorway Rock Formation
Devil's Doorway Rock Formation
Tips
September 20, 2023
Hiking
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Nearby routes
Best routes near Devil's Doorway Rock Formation
5.0
(3)
39
hikers
2.32km
00:50
120m
120m
The Balanced Rock and Devil's Doorway Loop in Devil's Lake State Park offers a dramatic and rewarding hiking experience, showcasing unique geological formations and stunning vistas. This moderate 1.4-mile (2.3 km) loop, with its 385 feet (117 metres) of elevation gain, takes about 50 minutes to complete, leading you past the iconic Balanced Rock and through the natural arch of Devil's Doorway, all while providing panoramic views of Devil's Lake and its quartzite bluffs.
Planning your visit means preparing for steep climbs and descents, often over stone steps that can be slippery. Good traction footwear is highly recommended for this challenging terrain. The trail is located within Devil's Lake State Park, and while it's accessible, be mindful of narrow sections with drop-offs. Fall is a particularly popular time to visit due to the vibrant foliage, but the trail offers beauty in any season.
This route is a concise yet impactful way to experience some of Wisconsin's best natural features, including talus slopes and glacial moraines. Portions of the trail are also part of the much longer Ice Age National Scenic Trail, highlighting its geological significance. It's a fantastic option if you're looking for a powerful dose of scenery and a good workout without committing to an all-day adventure.
5.10km
01:25
110m
90m
The East Bluff Trail via Steinke Basin offers a unique blend of tranquil prairie and woodland paths leading to dramatic bluff-top views. You'll start on the gentle Steinke Basin trail, which meanders through open prairies and quiet woods, a stark contrast to the rocky ascent that follows. As you climb, the scenery transforms, culminating in panoramic vistas of Devil's Lake and its iconic rock formations like Devil's Doorway, all within a 3.2-mile (5.1 km) journey.
To make the most of your visit, plan to arrive early, especially during peak seasons, as Devil's Lake State Park can get busy. While the Steinke Basin section is generally easy year-round, be mindful that the East Bluff Trail can be icy in winter. If you're visiting in colder months, consider the East Bluff Woods trail from Steinke Basin as a safer alternative to reach the bluff top, as it avoids stairs and cliffs.
This route provides an excellent way to experience the diverse landscapes of Devil's Lake State Park, combining the serene, ancient glacial lake bed of Steinke Basin with the rugged beauty of the East Bluff. It's an easy 1 hour and 25 minutes hike with 350 feet (107 metres) of elevation gain, making it accessible for many while still delivering those sought-after views that make the park famous.
4.7
(27)
233
hikers
12.4km
03:33
240m
240m
The Devil's Lake Loop Trail offers a truly diverse hiking experience, winding through oak woodlands and meadows before ascending dramatic quartzite bluffs. You'll encounter a mix of paved sections and rugged singletrack, with the highlight being the panoramic views of Devil's Lake and the surrounding forests from atop the bluffs, where you can spot famous geological features like Balanced Rock and Devil's Doorway.
This moderate 7.7-mile (12.4 km) route involves a significant 799 feet (243 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking about 3 hours and 33 minutes. The climbs up the bluffs are steep and demanding, with many stone steps, and the CCC Trail segment even requires some scrambling. It's best to arrive early to secure parking, especially during peak times, and consider hiking counter-clockwise to tackle the steepest sections when you're fresh.
What makes this trail particularly special is its rich glacial history; the park's landscape is a direct result of ancient ice sheets, making it a key part of the Ice Age National Scenic Trail. Beyond the stunning vistas, you'll find unique features like glacial potholes and talus slopes, offering a comprehensive look at Wisconsin's natural wonders within a single, challenging loop.
Details
Informations
Elevation 390 m
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Friday 12 June
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13°C
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Max wind speed: 15.0 km/h
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