The Master Catalog of Physical Activity
A Complete System of Movement, Exploration, and Engagement
This catalog represents the full range of physical activities accessible within Wisconsin and the surrounding region—spanning exploration, competition, creation, and real-world function.
Use it as a starting point.
Pick something—and step into it.
1. Trail, Terrain & Outdoor Exploration
Hiking, backpacking, trail running, hash run, fastpacking, orienteering, geocaching, photography walks, scenic walking, nature observation, urban exploration,
2. Cycling, Wheels & Board Sports
Road cycling, gravel riding, mountain biking, fat tire biking, skateboarding, rollerblading, scootering, longboarding, mountain boarding.
3. Water, Fishing & Paddle Sports
Kayaking, canoeing, stand-up paddleboarding, boating, sailing, jet skiing, swimming, snorkeling, scuba diving, wakeboarding, water skiing, tubing, fishing, fly fishing, ice fishing.
4. Climbing, Heights & Aerial Adventure
Rock climbing, bouldering, indoor climbing, ice climbing, zip lining, high ropes, alpine slides, mountain coasters, skydiving, paragliding, hang gliding.
5. Field, Court & Team Sports
Soccer, basketball, baseball, softball, football, rugby, lacrosse, volleyball, pickleball, tennis, badminton, squash, padel.
6. Strength, Fitness & Body Movement
Weightlifting, powerlifting, calisthenics, CrossFit, kettlebells, parkour, gymnastics, tumbling, slacklining, yoga, Pilates, Tai Chi, mobility training.
7. Combat, Target & Precision Sports
Boxing, Muay Thai, Jiu Jitsu, karate, wrestling, MMA, fencing, archery, axe throwing, darts, billiards, trap/skeet, sporting clays, long-range shooting, golf, disc golf, footgolf, mini-golf.
8. Winter & Seasonal Activities
Downhill skiing, snowboarding, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, ice skating, curling, sledding, tubing, snowmobiling, skijoring.
9. Motorized & Mechanical Recreation
ATV/UTV riding, motocross, go-karting, RC racing, RC aviation, drone racing, engine restoration, mechanical builds.
10. Fieldcraft, Harvest & Survival Skills
Hunting, trapping, foraging, bushcraft, firecraft, shelter building, wilderness navigation, survival training.
11. Animal-Assisted Activities
Horseback riding, equestrian sports, dog agility, pack animal trekking, hippotherapy.
12. Artistic, Performance & Social Movement
Dance, circus arts, juggling, color guard, marching band, bowling, yard games, casual pickup games, family/playground movement.
13. Digital-Physical & Hybrid Experiences
VR fitness, exergaming, augmented reality climbing, laser tag, paintball, airsoft, LARP, HEMA.
14. Functional, Adaptive & Recovery Movement
Gardening, wood splitting, rucking, active commuting, adaptive sports, wheelchair athletics, sled hockey, handcycling, aquatic therapy, contrast therapy movement.
1. Trail, Terrain & Outdoor Exploration
Movement shaped by land, distance, and discovery—ranging from structured routes to open-ended exploration.
Core Movement
Hiking
Backpacking
Trail Running
Fastpacking
Rucking
Navigation & Route-Based
Orienteering
Geocaching
Hash Runs (trail + social hybrid)
Exploration & Experience
Photography Walks
Scenic Walking / Hiking
Nature Observation
Urban Exploration
Devil’s Lake State Park
Region: Lower Wisconsin | Sub-Region: Driftless Edge
Address: S5975 Park Rd, Baraboo, WI
Website: https://dnr.wisconsin.gov/topic/parks/devilslake
Activities: Hiking, Trail Running, Photography
Difficulty: Moderate | Time: Half Day → Full Day | Best For: Solo, Couples, Groups
Quartzite bluffs surrounding a glacial lake with some of the most iconic views in Wisconsin.
Terrain: Bluff / Forest | Highlight: Cliffside overlooks
Hours: 6 AM – 11 PM | Cost: State Park Pass Required
Military / Veteran Access: Eligible Wisconsin resident disabled veterans receive free admission (state program)
Pass / Fee Notes: Vehicle admission sticker required
Parking: Large lots (fills quickly) | Restrooms: Yes
Best Seasons: Spring, Fall
Notes: Extremely crowded in summer—early morning recommended
Governor Dodge State Park
Region: Lower Wisconsin | Sub-Region: Driftless
Address: 4175 WI-23, Dodgeville, WI
Website: https://dnr.wisconsin.gov/topic/parks/govdodge
Activities: Hiking, Camping, Swimming
Difficulty: Easy → Moderate | Time: Half Day → Full Day | Best For: Families, Groups
Large park with lakes, waterfalls, and varied terrain ideal for full-day exploration.
Terrain: Forest / Lake | Highlight: Twin lakes and waterfall areas
Hours: 6 AM – 11 PM | Cost: State Park Pass Required
Military / Veteran Access: Eligible Wisconsin resident disabled veterans receive free admission (state program)
Pass / Fee Notes: Vehicle admission sticker required
Parking: Multiple access points | Restrooms: Yes
Best Seasons: Summer, Fall
Notes: Great beginner-friendly park
Blue Mound State Park
Region: Lower Wisconsin | Sub-Region: Driftless Edge
Address: 4350 Mounds Park Rd, Blue Mounds, WI
Website: https://dnr.wisconsin.gov/topic/parks/bluemound
Activities: Hiking, Biking, Scenic Viewing
Difficulty: Moderate | Time: 2–4 Hours | Best For: Couples, Solo
Highest point in southern Wisconsin offering wide panoramic views.
Terrain: Bluff / Prairie | Highlight: Observation towers
Hours: 6 AM – 11 PM | Cost: State Park Pass Required
Military / Veteran Access: Eligible Wisconsin resident disabled veterans receive free admission (state program)
Pass / Fee Notes: Vehicle admission sticker required
Parking: Easy | Restrooms: Yes
Best Seasons: Fall
Notes: Wind exposure at summit
Mirror Lake State Park
Region: Lower Wisconsin | Sub-Region: Driftless Edge
Address: E10320 Fern Dell Rd, Baraboo, WI
Website: https://dnr.wisconsin.gov/topic/parks/mirrorlake
Activities: Hiking, Kayaking, Photography
Difficulty: Easy | Time: 2–4 Hours | Best For: Families, Couples
Calm, scenic lake with sandstone cliffs and accessible trails.
Terrain: Lake / Forest | Highlight: Still water reflections
Hours: 6 AM – 11 PM | Cost: State Park Pass Required
Military / Veteran Access: Eligible Wisconsin resident disabled veterans receive free admission (state program)
Pass / Fee Notes: Vehicle admission sticker required
Parking: Multiple lots | Restrooms: Yes
Best Seasons: Summer, Fall
Notes: Much quieter than Devil’s Lake
Wildcat Mountain State Park
Region: Central Wisconsin | Sub-Region: Driftless
Address: E13660 WI-33, Ontario, WI
Website: https://dnr.wisconsin.gov/topic/parks/wildcatmountain
Activities: Hiking, Canoeing, Scenic Viewing
Difficulty: Moderate | Time: Half Day | Best For: Solo, Couples
Ridge-top trails overlooking the Kickapoo Valley with a more remote feel.
Terrain: Bluff / River Valley | Highlight: Valley overlooks
Hours: 6 AM – 11 PM | Cost: State Park Pass Required
Military / Veteran Access: Eligible Wisconsin resident disabled veterans receive free admission (state program)
Pass / Fee Notes: Vehicle admission sticker required
Parking: Limited | Restrooms: Seasonal
Best Seasons: Fall
Notes: Less crowded, more rugged terrain
Perrot State Park
Region: Western Wisconsin | Sub-Region: Mississippi River Valley
Address: W26247 Sullivan Rd, Trempealeau, WI
Website: https://dnr.wisconsin.gov/topic/parks/perrot
Activities: Hiking, Bird Watching, Scenic Viewing
Difficulty: Moderate | Time: 2–4 Hours | Best For: Solo, Couples
Bluff-top hiking with views over the Mississippi River.
Terrain: Bluff / River | Highlight: Brady’s Bluff overlook
Hours: 6 AM – 11 PM | Cost: State Park Pass Required
Military / Veteran Access: Eligible Wisconsin resident disabled veterans receive free admission (state program)
Pass / Fee Notes: Vehicle admission sticker required
Parking: Trailhead lots | Restrooms: Yes
Best Seasons: Spring, Fall
Notes: Steep climbs
Peninsula State Park
Region: Upper Wisconsin | Sub-Region: Door County
Address: 9462 Shore Rd, Fish Creek, WI
Website: https://dnr.wisconsin.gov/topic/parks/peninsula
Activities: Hiking, Biking, Camping
Difficulty: Easy → Moderate | Time: Half Day → Full Day | Best For: Families, Groups
One of Wisconsin’s most visited parks with shoreline cliffs and diverse activities.
Terrain: Forest / Lake Michigan | Highlight: Coastal bluffs
Hours: 6 AM – 11 PM | Cost: State Park Pass Required
Military / Veteran Access: Eligible Wisconsin resident disabled veterans receive free admission (state program)
Pass / Fee Notes: Vehicle admission sticker required
Parking: Numerous lots | Restrooms: Yes
Best Seasons: Summer, Fall
Notes: High visitor volume
Copper Falls State Park
Region: Northern Wisconsin | Sub-Region: Northwoods
Address: 36764 Copper Falls Rd, Mellen, WI
Website: https://dnr.wisconsin.gov/topic/parks/copperfalls
Activities: Hiking, Photography
Difficulty: Easy → Moderate | Time: 2–4 Hours | Best For: Couples, Solo
Waterfalls and gorge trails through forested terrain.
Terrain: Forest / River Gorge | Highlight: Multi-waterfall system
Hours: 6 AM – 11 PM | Cost: State Park Pass Required
Military / Veteran Access: Eligible Wisconsin resident disabled veterans receive free admission (state program)
Pass / Fee Notes: Vehicle admission sticker required
Parking: Main lot | Restrooms: Yes
Best Seasons: Spring
Notes: Best after rainfall
High Cliff State Park
Region: Eastern Wisconsin | Sub-Region: Lake Winnebago
Address: N7630 State Park Rd, Sherwood, WI
Website: https://dnr.wisconsin.gov/topic/parks/highcliff
Activities: Hiking, Scenic Viewing
Difficulty: Easy | Time: 1–3 Hours | Best For: Families, Casual
Limestone cliffs overlooking Lake Winnebago with short, accessible trails.
Terrain: Bluff / Lake | Highlight: Elevated lake views
Hours: 6 AM – 11 PM | Cost: State Park Pass Required
Military / Veteran Access: Eligible Wisconsin resident disabled veterans receive free admission (state program)
Pass / Fee Notes: Vehicle admission sticker required
Parking: Easy | Restrooms: Yes
Best Seasons: Spring, Fall
Notes: Good short-visit park
Kohler-Andrae State Park
Region: Eastern Wisconsin | Sub-Region: Lake Michigan Coast
Address: 1020 Beach Park Ln, Sheboygan, WI
Website: https://dnr.wisconsin.gov/topic/parks/kohlerandrae
Activities: Hiking, Beach Walking, Photography
Difficulty: Easy | Time: 1–3 Hours | Best For: Families, Couples
Coastal dunes and boardwalk trails along Lake Michigan.
Terrain: Dunes / Lake | Highlight: Coastal dune system
Hours: 6 AM – 11 PM | Cost: State Park Pass Required
Military / Veteran Access: Eligible Wisconsin resident disabled veterans receive free admission (state program)
Pass / Fee Notes: Vehicle admission sticker required
Parking: Main lot | Restrooms: Yes
Best Seasons: Summer
Notes: Windy conditions common
Ice Age National Scenic Trail
Region: Statewide | Sub-Region: Glacial Corridor
Address: Multiple trailheads across Wisconsin
Website: https://www.iceagetrail.org
Activities: Hiking, Backpacking, Trail Running
Difficulty: Easy → Hard | Time: 1–2 Hours → Multi-Day | Best For: All Levels
1,200-mile trail following the edge of the last glacier with diverse terrain across the state.
Terrain: Mixed (Forest / Prairie / Glacial Hills) | Highlight: Glacial landscapes
Hours: Open daily (varies by segment) | Cost: Free (some segments require park admission)
Military / Veteran Access: Not Applicable
Pass / Fee Notes: Some trail segments within state parks require vehicle admission sticker
Parking: Varies by trailhead | Restrooms: Limited
Best Seasons: Spring, Fall
Notes: Segment-based—plan entry points in advance
Elroy-Sparta State Trail
Region: Central Wisconsin | Sub-Region: Driftless Edge
Address: 101 E Main St, Sparta, WI
Website: https://dnr.wisconsin.gov/topic/parks/elroysparta
Activities: Biking, Walking, Running
Difficulty: Easy | Time: Half Day → Full Day | Best For: Families, Casual
Historic rail-trail featuring tunnels and long, flat stretches ideal for easy exploration.
Terrain: Rail Trail | Highlight: Hand-carved tunnels
Hours: 6 AM – 11 PM | Cost: Trail Pass Required
Military / Veteran Access: Not Applicable
Pass / Fee Notes: Wisconsin State Trail Pass required for biking (age 16+)
Parking: Trailhead lots | Restrooms: Yes
Best Seasons: Summer, Fall
Notes: Bring a flashlight or headlamp for tunnels
400 State Trail
Region: Central Wisconsin | Sub-Region: Driftless
Address: Reedsburg, WI (multiple access points)
Website: https://dnr.wisconsin.gov/topic/parks/400
Activities: Biking, Walking, Running
Difficulty: Easy | Time: Half Day | Best For: Families, Casual
Flat trail connecting Reedsburg to Elroy with scenic countryside and river crossings.
Terrain: Rail Trail | Highlight: Scenic river crossings
Hours: 6 AM – 11 PM | Cost: Trail Pass Required
Military / Veteran Access: Not Applicable
Pass / Fee Notes: Wisconsin State Trail Pass required for biking
Parking: Multiple access points | Restrooms: Limited
Best Seasons: Summer, Fall
Notes: Often paired with Elroy-Sparta Trail
Glacial Drumlin State Trail
Region: Southern Wisconsin | Sub-Region: Glacial Terrain
Address: Waukesha to Cottage Grove, WI
Website: https://dnr.wisconsin.gov/topic/parks/glacialdrumlin
Activities: Biking, Walking, Running
Difficulty: Easy | Time: Half Day → Full Day | Best For: All Levels
Long-distance trail crossing farmland and glacial formations between Madison and Milwaukee regions.
Terrain: Gravel / Rail Trail | Highlight: Drumlin hills
Hours: 6 AM – 11 PM | Cost: Trail Pass Required
Military / Veteran Access: Not Applicable
Pass / Fee Notes: Trail pass required for biking on most segments
Parking: Trailheads throughout | Restrooms: Limited
Best Seasons: Summer, Fall
Notes: Long, exposed sections
Military Ridge State Trail
Region: Southern Wisconsin | Sub-Region: Driftless Edge
Address: Fitchburg to Dodgeville, WI
Website: https://dnr.wisconsin.gov/topic/parks/militaryridge
Activities: Biking, Walking, Running
Difficulty: Easy | Time: 2–6 Hours | Best For: Casual, Intermediate
Rolling trail following historic routes with prairie and farmland scenery.
Terrain: Rail Trail / Prairie | Highlight: Open landscapes
Hours: 6 AM – 11 PM | Cost: Trail Pass Required
Military / Veteran Access: Not Applicable
Pass / Fee Notes: Trail pass required for biking
Parking: Multiple trailheads | Restrooms: Seasonal
Best Seasons: Summer, Fall
Notes: Limited shade
Badger State Trail
Region: Southern Wisconsin | Sub-Region: Madison Area
Address: Madison to Illinois border
Website: https://dnr.wisconsin.gov/topic/parks/badger
Activities: Biking, Walking, Running
Difficulty: Easy | Time: Half Day → Full Day | Best For: All Levels
Trail connecting Madison to southern Wisconsin with wooded sections and a long tunnel.
Terrain: Rail Trail | Highlight: Stewart Tunnel
Hours: 6 AM – 11 PM | Cost: Trail Pass Required
Military / Veteran Access: Not Applicable
Pass / Fee Notes: Trail pass required; tunnel requires light
Parking: Trailheads available | Restrooms: Limited
Best Seasons: Summer, Fall
Notes: Cool conditions inside tunnel
Great River State Trail
Region: Western Wisconsin | Sub-Region: Mississippi River Valley
Address: Onalaska to Trempealeau, WI
Website: https://dnr.wisconsin.gov/topic/parks/greatriver
Activities: Biking, Walking, Running
Difficulty: Easy | Time: 2–5 Hours | Best For: Families, Casual
Flat trail along the Mississippi River with wetland and river views.
Terrain: Rail Trail / Wetlands | Highlight: River scenery
Hours: 6 AM – 11 PM | Cost: Trail Pass Required
Military / Veteran Access: Not Applicable
Pass / Fee Notes: Trail pass required for biking
Parking: Trailhead lots | Restrooms: Yes
Best Seasons: Spring, Fall
Notes: Good wildlife viewing
Capital City State Trail
Region: Southern Wisconsin | Sub-Region: Madison Area
Address: Madison, WI
Website: https://dnr.wisconsin.gov/topic/parks/capitalcity
Activities: Biking, Walking, Running
Difficulty: Easy | Time: 1–4 Hours | Best For: All Levels
Urban-to-rural trail connecting Madison to surrounding natural areas.
Terrain: Paved / Mixed | Highlight: City-to-nature transition
Hours: Open daily | Cost: Some sections require pass
Military / Veteran Access: Not Applicable
Pass / Fee Notes: Trail pass required for biking outside Madison city segments
Parking: Multiple access points | Restrooms: Yes
Best Seasons: Spring, Summer, Fall
Notes: Highly accessible entry point
Ice Age Trail – Devil’s Lake Segment
Region: Lower Wisconsin | Sub-Region: Driftless Edge
Address: Baraboo, WI
Website: https://www.iceagetrail.org
Activities: Hiking, Trail Running
Difficulty: Moderate → Hard | Time: 2–6 Hours | Best For: Intermediate
One of the most scenic Ice Age Trail segments with steep climbs and bluff-top views.
Terrain: Bluff / Forest | Highlight: Ridge-top overlooks
Hours: 6 AM – 11 PM | Cost: State Park Pass Required
Military / Veteran Access: Eligible Wisconsin resident disabled veterans receive free admission (state program)
Pass / Fee Notes: Vehicle admission sticker required (within Devil’s Lake State Park)
Parking: Park lots | Restrooms: Yes
Best Seasons: Fall
Notes: Challenging elevation gain
Ice Age Trail – Kettle Moraine Segment
Region: Southeastern Wisconsin | Sub-Region: Kettle Moraine
Address: Multiple access points
Website: https://www.iceagetrail.org
Activities: Hiking, Backpacking
Difficulty: Moderate | Time: Half Day → Multi-Day | Best For: Intermediate
Rolling glacial terrain through forests and kettle formations typical of southeastern Wisconsin.
Terrain: Forest / Glacial Hills | Highlight: Kettle formations
Hours: Open daily | Cost: Some segments require park admission
Military / Veteran Access: Eligible Wisconsin resident disabled veterans receive free admission (state program)
Pass / Fee Notes: Vehicle admission sticker required in state forest units
Parking: Trailheads available | Restrooms: Limited
Best Seasons: Spring, Fall
Notes: Good for overnight trips
Wyalusing State Park
Region: Western Wisconsin | Sub-Region: Driftless / Mississippi Confluence
Address: 13081 State Park Ln, Bagley, WI
Website: https://dnr.wisconsin.gov/topic/parks/wyalusing
Activities: Hiking, Camping, Scenic Viewing
Difficulty: Moderate | Time: 2–6 Hours | Best For: Couples, Solo
Bluff-top park overlooking the confluence of the Wisconsin and Mississippi Rivers.
Terrain: Bluff / River | Highlight: River confluence views
Hours: 6 AM – 11 PM | Cost: State Park Pass Required
Military / Veteran Access: Eligible Wisconsin resident disabled veterans receive free admission (state program)
Pass / Fee Notes: Vehicle admission sticker required
Parking: Multiple lots | Restrooms: Yes
Best Seasons: Spring, Fall
Notes: Strong elevation changes on trails
Kickapoo Valley Reserve
Region: Southwestern Wisconsin | Sub-Region: Driftless
Address: S3661 WI-131, La Farge, WI
Website: https://kvr.state.wi.us
Activities: Hiking, Canoeing, Wildlife Viewing
Difficulty: Easy → Moderate | Time: Half Day → Full Day | Best For: All Levels
Protected valley known for quiet trails, river access, and remote-feeling terrain.
Terrain: Valley / Forest / River | Highlight: Remote, undeveloped feel
Hours: Open daily | Cost: Free
Military / Veteran Access: Not Applicable
Pass / Fee Notes: No admission fee; rentals available for river use
Parking: Trailheads available | Restrooms: Limited
Best Seasons: Spring, Fall
Notes: Excellent for solitude
Governor Dodge – Stephens Falls Area
Region: Lower Wisconsin | Sub-Region: Driftless
Address: 4175 WI-23, Dodgeville, WI
Website: https://dnr.wisconsin.gov/topic/parks/govdodge
Activities: Hiking, Photography
Difficulty: Easy | Time: 1–2 Hours | Best For: Families, Casual
Short hike to one of the most accessible waterfalls in southern Wisconsin.
Terrain: Forest / Waterfall | Highlight: Stephens Falls
Hours: 6 AM – 11 PM | Cost: State Park Pass Required
Military / Veteran Access: Eligible Wisconsin resident disabled veterans receive free admission (state program)
Pass / Fee Notes: Vehicle admission sticker required
Parking: Nearby lot | Restrooms: Yes
Best Seasons: Spring
Notes: Best after rainfall
Wildcat Mountain – Old Settlers Trail Area
Region: Central Wisconsin | Sub-Region: Driftless
Address: E13660 WI-33, Ontario, WI
Website: https://dnr.wisconsin.gov/topic/parks/wildcatmountain
Activities: Hiking, Scenic Viewing
Difficulty: Moderate | Time: 2–4 Hours | Best For: Intermediate
Ridge trail offering continuous views over the Kickapoo Valley.
Terrain: Bluff / Ridge | Highlight: Elevated valley views
Hours: 6 AM – 11 PM | Cost: State Park Pass Required
Military / Veteran Access: Eligible Wisconsin resident disabled veterans receive free admission (state program)
Pass / Fee Notes: Vehicle admission sticker required
Parking: Trailhead access | Restrooms: Seasonal
Best Seasons: Fall
Notes: Narrow ridge sections
Perrot State Park – Brady’s Bluff Trail
Region: Western Wisconsin | Sub-Region: Mississippi River Valley
Address: W26247 Sullivan Rd, Trempealeau, WI
Website: https://dnr.wisconsin.gov/topic/parks/perrot
Activities: Hiking, Scenic Viewing
Difficulty: Moderate → Hard | Time: 1–3 Hours | Best For: Intermediate
Steep climb to one of the best overlooks on the Mississippi River.
Terrain: Bluff | Highlight: Brady’s Bluff summit
Hours: 6 AM – 11 PM | Cost: State Park Pass Required
Military / Veteran Access: Eligible Wisconsin resident disabled veterans receive free admission (state program)
Pass / Fee Notes: Vehicle admission sticker required
Parking: Trailhead lot | Restrooms: Yes
Best Seasons: Fall
Notes: Steep switchbacks
Blue Mound – East Bluff Trail Area
Region: Lower Wisconsin | Sub-Region: Driftless Edge
Address: 4350 Mounds Park Rd, Blue Mounds, WI
Website: https://dnr.wisconsin.gov/topic/parks/bluemound
Activities: Hiking, Scenic Viewing
Difficulty: Moderate | Time: 2–3 Hours | Best For: Intermediate
Trail system offering views across rolling Driftless terrain.
Terrain: Bluff / Prairie | Highlight: Eastern overlook views
Hours: 6 AM – 11 PM | Cost: State Park Pass Required
Military / Veteran Access: Eligible Wisconsin resident disabled veterans receive free admission (state program)
Pass / Fee Notes: Vehicle admission sticker required
Parking: Main lot | Restrooms: Yes
Best Seasons: Fall
Notes: Open exposure
Wyalusing – Sentinel Ridge Trail
Region: Western Wisconsin | Sub-Region: Driftless
Address: 13081 State Park Ln, Bagley, WI
Website: https://dnr.wisconsin.gov/topic/parks/wyalusing
Activities: Hiking, Scenic Viewing
Difficulty: Moderate | Time: 2–4 Hours | Best For: Intermediate
Ridge trail offering long views over river valleys.
Terrain: Ridge / Bluff | Highlight: Ridge-line walking
Hours: 6 AM – 11 PM | Cost: State Park Pass Required
Military / Veteran Access: Eligible Wisconsin resident disabled veterans receive free admission (state program)
Pass / Fee Notes: Vehicle admission sticker required
Parking: Trail access points | Restrooms: Yes
Best Seasons: Fall
Notes: Less crowded sections
Parfrey’s Glen State Natural Area
Region: Lower Wisconsin | Sub-Region: Driftless Edge
Address: County Rd DL, Merrimac, WI
Website: https://dnr.wisconsin.gov/topic/statenaturalareas/parfreysglen
Activities: Hiking, Photography
Difficulty: Easy → Moderate | Time: 1–2 Hours | Best For: All Levels
Narrow gorge hike with rock walls and a small waterfall at the end.
Terrain: Gorge / Forest | Highlight: Slot canyon feel
Hours: Open daily | Cost: Free
Military / Veteran Access: Not Applicable
Pass / Fee Notes: No admission fee; parking limited
Parking: Small lot | Restrooms: No
Best Seasons: Spring
Notes: Can be crowded
Roche-A-Cri State Park
Region: Central Wisconsin | Sub-Region: Driftless Edge
Address: 1767 WI-13, Friendship, WI
Website: https://dnr.wisconsin.gov/topic/parks/rocheacri
Activities: Hiking, Scenic Viewing
Difficulty: Easy | Time: 1 Hour | Best For: Families, Casual
Short climb to a bluff-top overlook with stairs access.
Terrain: Bluff | Highlight: Stair climb overlook
Hours: 6 AM – 11 PM | Cost: State Park Pass Required
Military / Veteran Access: Eligible Wisconsin resident disabled veterans receive free admission (state program)
Pass / Fee Notes: Vehicle admission sticker required
Parking: Small lot | Restrooms: Yes
Best Seasons: Fall
Notes: Quick stop location
Mirror Lake – Cliff Trail Area
Region: Lower Wisconsin | Sub-Region: Driftless Edge
Address: E10320 Fern Dell Rd, Baraboo, WI
Website: https://dnr.wisconsin.gov/topic/parks/mirrorlake
Activities: Hiking, Photography
Difficulty: Easy | Time: 1–3 Hours | Best For: Families, Couples
Cliffside trail along calm water with scenic views and easy terrain.
Terrain: Lake / Cliff | Highlight: Sandstone formations
Hours: 6 AM – 11 PM | Cost: State Park Pass Required
Military / Veteran Access: Eligible Wisconsin resident disabled veterans receive free admission (state program)
Pass / Fee Notes: Vehicle admission sticker required
Parking: Trailhead lots | Restrooms: Yes
Best Seasons: Summer, Fall
Notes: Very accessible