Ice Age Trail: Devil's Lake to Parfrey's Glen

This segment is considered difficult and features varied, challenging terrain. You'll encounter three significant ascents and one steep descent, particularly down the East Bluff. The route includes sections with rocky single-track footpaths, bluffs, and wooded areas. The Sauk Point Segment, part of this route, has climbs rated as 'level 4 mountaineering' due to a 775-foot ascent over two miles. Parfrey's Glen itself involves walking through a stream and scrambling over slippery, moss-covered boulders.

You can typically access the trail from Devil's Lake State Park, which has multiple parking areas. The route starts near the East Bluff Trailhead. For Parfrey's Glen, there's a dedicated parking lot off County Road DL, which provides access to the glen itself and the Ice Age Trail at Parfrey's Glen.

Yes, dogs are generally allowed on the Ice Age Trail, but they must be kept on a leash. Please be aware of specific regulations within Devil's Lake State Park and Parfrey's Glen State Natural Area, as rules can vary slightly.

The trail offers great scenery throughout the year. Spring and fall provide comfortable temperatures and beautiful foliage. Summer is popular but can be hot and humid. Winter hiking is possible, but be prepared for snow and ice, especially on the steep and rocky sections, and ensure you have appropriate gear.

Yes, Devil's Lake State Park requires a vehicle admission sticker. You can purchase a daily or annual pass. Parfrey's Glen State Natural Area is part of the state park system, so the same vehicle admission sticker applies for parking access.

This route is packed with scenic spots. You'll get expansive views of Devil's Lake from bluffs like the Elephant Rock View of Spirit Lake and near the Balanced Rock and View of Spirit Lake. Other overlooks include the CCC Trail overlook and a Lookout over part of Devils Lake State Park. The hike culminates at Parfrey's Glen, a unique slot canyon with distinctive geological formations.

Given its 'difficult' rating, significant elevation changes, and 'level 4 mountaineering rated climbs' on sections like the Sauk Point Segment, this trail is generally not suitable for beginners or young children. The terrain can be challenging, with rocky paths and steep descents. Parfrey's Glen itself requires walking through a stream and scrambling, which can be difficult for inexperienced hikers.

This specific segment of the Ice Age Trail from Devil's Lake to Parfrey's Glen is a point-to-point hike. It is not a loop. You will need to arrange transportation for pick-up at Parfrey's Glen or hike back to your starting point, making it a much longer and more challenging out-and-back journey.

The area is rich in geological history, primarily shaped by glacial activity. You'll see dramatic quartzite bluffs rising 500 feet above Devil's Lake, which itself is a glacial lake. The route also features massive talus slopes of quartzite and glacial moraines. Parfrey's Glen is a prime example, being a deep, stone-walled slot canyon carved by a small brook, showcasing unique geological formations.

Yes, this route is part of the larger Ice Age Trail system. Specifically, it covers significant portions of the IAT - Sauk Point Segment and the IAT - Devil's Lake Segment. You will also traverse sections of the Sauk Point Trail and the East Bluff Trail within Devil's Lake State Park.

Be strategic about your starting point. The descent down the East Bluff can be very steep and challenging, especially if wet. If you prefer to tackle the steepest climbs uphill rather than downhill, consider starting your hike from the Parfrey's Glen side and heading towards Devil's Lake, or carefully plan your route to avoid the steepest downhill sections if you're not comfortable with them. Always carry plenty of water and wear sturdy hiking boots, as the terrain is rugged.