Parfrey's Glen Trail

The initial section of the trail is an easy, wide gravel path through the woods. However, as you venture deeper into the glen, the difficulty increases significantly. You'll need to navigate through the stream bed, rock-hop, and scramble over boulders and old stone stairs to reach the waterfall. Sturdy, waterproof footwear is highly recommended.

The trail begins as a gently ascending gravel footpath, transitioning to dirt as it follows the creek. Further into the glen, the terrain becomes unmaintained, requiring hikers to walk directly in the stream bed, rock-hop, and scramble over large boulders and remnants of old structures. The stream is typically ankle-deep but can rise after heavy rains.

Parfrey's Glen is Wisconsin's first State Natural Area, known for its deep gorge carved by the creek. You'll see impressive sandstone walls embedded with quartzite, some rising over 40 feet and covered in moss. The glen culminates in a small waterfall and pool, and is home to rare plant species and diverse insect fauna, including unique diving beetles and caddisflies.

The trailhead for Parfrey's Glen Trail is located a few miles east of Devil's Lake State Park. There is a designated parking area available at the trailhead for visitors.

No specific permits or entrance fees are required to access Parfrey's Glen State Natural Area itself. However, standard Wisconsin State Park System vehicle admission stickers may be required for parking in some areas, though the primary trailhead parking is generally free. For the most current information, it's always best to check the official Wisconsin DNR website.

No, pets are not allowed within the Parfrey's Glen State Natural Area. This regulation is in place to protect the sensitive ecosystem, including rare plant species and insect fauna.

The trail can be hiked year-round, but spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery. Spring brings lush greenery, while fall showcases vibrant foliage. Summer can be warm, but the glen offers shade. Winter hiking is possible, but conditions can be icy, and the stream depth can vary significantly after heavy rainfall or snowmelt, so always check conditions before you go.

Given the varied terrain and the need to walk in the stream, waterproof hiking boots or sturdy water shoes with good grip are essential. Dress in layers, and consider bringing trekking poles for stability on slippery rocks. Remember that food and beverages are not allowed within the natural area, so plan accordingly.

The trail is an out-and-back route, approximately 0.7 to 0.8 miles one-way, making the total round trip about 1.6 to 1.8 miles. Depending on your pace and how much time you spend exploring the gorge, the hike typically takes about 1.5 to 2 hours to complete.

Yes, to protect the fragile ecosystem, visitors are required to stay on designated trails. Once in the gorge, you should remain within 20 feet of the creek bed. Pets, food, and beverages are strictly prohibited within the natural area. Please pack out everything you pack in to help preserve this unique environment.

Yes, sections of this route overlap with other well-known paths. You'll find that it passes through parts of the IAT - Sauk Point Segment and the Sauk Point Trail.