The best walks and hikes in Sauk County

Yes, there are over 50 hiking routes in Sauk County, offering a wide variety of options. The trails range from easy lakeside paths to challenging bluff climbs, with 23 rated as easy, 23 as moderate, and 5 as difficult.

The trails in Sauk County are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.6 stars. Hikers frequently praise the stunning views from the quartzite bluffs, the unique geological formations found in the region's gorges, and the well-maintained paths within the state parks.

Many trails in Wisconsin State Parks are dog-friendly, but pets must be on a leash at all times and are not allowed in picnic areas, on beaches, or inside buildings. The Steinke Basin Loop is a great option, offering a relatively flat and sheltered walk. Always check the specific park's regulations before you go.

Mirror Lake State Park is an excellent choice for families, known for its calm and tranquil atmosphere. The Northwest Trail loop is a gentle 3.2-mile (5.1 km) walk through pine and oak forests along the lake, perfect for an easy outing.

While the region is not known for large waterfalls, you can find beautiful cascades in its unique gorges. Parfrey's Glen, Wisconsin's first State Natural Area, features a trail that follows a stream through a deep gorge, ending near a small waterfall. Pewit's Nest also has a series of small cascades within its rocky canyon.

For dramatic views, the trails at Devil's Lake State Park are unmatched. The West Bluff Trail loop provides breathtaking panoramas of the lake from atop the 500-foot quartzite bluffs. For a different perspective, Ferry Bluff State Natural Area offers sprawling views over the Wisconsin River valley.

Yes, many of the most popular trails in Sauk County are loops. A great example is the Balance Rock & Devil's Doorway loop, which takes you past some of Devil's Lake's most famous rock formations on a challenging but rewarding circuit.

For a substantial hike, consider the Sauk Point Trail. This 7.5-mile (12.1 km) route is a segment of the Ice Age Trail and involves significant elevation gain, rewarding hikers with expansive views from one of the highest points in the Baraboo Hills.

Many trails in Sauk County are accessible for winter hiking or snowshoeing. Flatter, more sheltered trails like those in Mirror Lake State Park or the Great Sauk State Trail are excellent choices. The bluffs at Devil's Lake can be beautiful but also icy, so proper gear like microspikes is essential for safety.

To escape the busiest areas, explore some of the State Natural Areas. Baxter's Hollow is a great option, known for its clear trout stream and scenic gorge. The trails here, like the Elephant Rock & Upland Trail Loop on the edge of Devil's Lake, tend to be less traveled than the main bluff trails.

Parking at popular locations like Devil's Lake State Park and Parfrey's Glen can fill up very quickly, especially on weekends and holidays. It is highly recommended to arrive early in the morning to secure a spot. A Wisconsin State Park vehicle admission sticker is required for entry to most of these areas.

The Great Sauk State Trail is a paved, multi-use path built on a former railroad corridor, making it ideal for strollers and wheelchairs. It offers a leisurely way to explore the Wisconsin River valley between Sauk City and Prairie du Sac.