Baxter’s Hollow Rapids

Baxter's Hollow Rapids

Darkness was setting in as I reached the final stop on the weekend’s adventure. I had not expected water levels on Otter Creek to be flowing quite so well at Baxter’s Hollow, but I frantically scrambled to get some photos before I was completely out of light. So after driving to the end of Stones … Read more

Secret Falls

Secret Falls

“Secret?,” you say. “Doesn’t look like a secret if you are posting online!” After much discussion with other waterfall enthusiasts I have decided to keep the location of this place secret, however I will share the photos and some information on the journey. I am doing this because the ecosystem of this area is very … Read more

Devils Lake State Park – East Bluff Falls

Devil's Lake State Park - East Bluff Falls

Weather forecasts today were calling for 100% guaranteed rain all day with accumulation around 1″ so naturally I thought it would be perfect to explore Devil’s Lake State Park in Baraboo, Wisconsin. Turns out this was a great strategy as the usual massive summertime crowds were nowhere to be found. Hiking conditions were less than … Read more

Merrimac Ferry

Merrimac Ferry - Crossing Lake Wisconsin

Leaving Parfreys Glen we took the free Merrimac Ferry across Lake Wisconsin.  Weather was nearly perfect with some sun & fluffy clouds.  The water is very deep & dark blue in color here. Nearby you can see the old railroad bridge that crosses the lake/river.  Not much time to take photos but it was a … Read more

Parfreys Glen

Parfreys Glen State Natural Area - Parfreys Glen Falls

No more taking chances – our next destination was a surefire 5-star hiking and waterfall experience at the beloved Parfreys Glen State Natural Area.  We arrived relatively early and even got parking inside the parking lot (and not down the street!). The trail is a 1.1 mile in & out hike that starts very easy … Read more

Lake Redstone Falls

Lake Redstone Falls - Falls/Spillway

First stop on the morning of the 26th was another coin-flip chance at a waterfall located at Lake Redstone in LaValle, Wisconsin.  Absolutely zero people were here on arrival around 8am and the lake was mirror still. A large flat mound that looks like a dam / man-made feature?  Hmm thats strange, I was told … Read more

Pewits Nest State Natural Area

Pewits Nest State Natural Area – Cliffs on Lower Trail

Next stop was a 50/50 chance at seeing some amazing waterfalls and a rocky gorge at Pewits Nest State Natural Area. The trail here is composed of crushed gravel and seems very new.  It also appears the wooden fences are very new.  First we tried to access on the path to the right of this … Read more

Ferry Bluff State Natural Area

Ferry Bluff State Natural Area - Views Across the Wisconsin River

Another quick, short hike with extremely rewarding views is at Ferry Bluff State Natural Area.  Recent rains had water levels high and bugs were mildly annoying but if you hike fast enough there’s no issue. Another view looking the other direction across the Wisconsin River.  Some of the best scenery in the state right here.  … Read more

Natural Bridge State Park

Natural Bridge State Park - Rock Arch

Winter has been far too long but finally I escaped on Memorial Day weekend for the first trip of 2019.  This time I was joined by my sister Emma for a seat-of-the-pants adventure starting at Natural Bridge State Park.  Just a quick stop at the arch today – stay tuned for more unique destinations to … Read more

Parfreys Glen State Natural Area

Parfrey's Glen State Natural Area

A short drive from the main Devil’s Lake State Park area (but still within the park) is Parfrey’s Glen State Natural Area.  Dedicated as the first state natural area in 1952, this is a popular family attraction thanks to easy access and a waterfall at the trail terminus.  Traffic is very busy during weekends/holidays – … Read more