Unearth The Voyage
Nestled in the heart of Wisconsin, Baraboo hides one of nature’s most spectacular treasures – Devil’s Lake State Park. While often overlooked by tourists seeking more famous destinations, this serene paradise offers breathtaking quartzite bluffs, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant forests that transform into a kaleidoscope of colors each autumn. For nature lovers looking to escape the hustle and bustle, Baraboo provides peaceful trails, stunning vistas, and authentic small-town charm without the overwhelming crowds.
Hidden Trails That Only Locals Know
Forget the packed East Bluff Trail! Locals whisper about Steinke Basin Loop, where deer bound through morning mist and sandhill cranes nest undisturbed by the usual tourist traffic. This gentle 2-mile path winds through meadows and lowland forests, offering solitude even during peak season.
Morning hikers might spot foxes darting between trees or hear woodpeckers tapping overhead. The trail’s relatively flat terrain makes it perfect for families and casual nature enthusiasts seeking tranquility.
For something more challenging but equally secluded, try the rugged Potholes Trail with its unique glacial formations and tight rock passages. These lesser-known pathways reveal Devil’s Lake’s true character – wild, peaceful, and gloriously uncrowded.
Sunrise Magic at Balanced Rock
Early risers reap the ultimate Devil’s Lake reward! At dawn, Balanced Rock becomes a natural cathedral as first light bathes the 500-foot quartzite cliffs in golden hues. The massive boulder perches impossibly on the edge of East Bluff, creating a silhouette that’s mesmerized visitors for centuries.
Pack a thermos of hot coffee and arrive 30 minutes before sunrise. You’ll likely have this spectacular viewpoint entirely to yourself, especially on weekdays. The lake below transforms into a perfect mirror, doubling the visual impact of the autumn colors.
Photography enthusiasts will appreciate how morning mist often clings to the water’s surface, creating ethereal conditions for capturing the park’s most iconic landmark without fighting for tripod space.
Kayaking the Quiet Corners
The rental kiosks near the north shore buzz with activity, but savvy visitors bring their own watercraft to explore Devil’s Lake from angles most never see. Launch from the less-frequented south shore early morning for glassy waters and uninterrupted paddling.
Hugging the western shoreline reveals hidden coves and dramatic cliff faces impossible to appreciate from land. The lake’s compact size (just 360 acres) means even novice paddlers can circumnavigate it in under two hours.
Fall creates the most magical paddling experience when the surrounding bluffs burst with color and reflect perfectly in the still water. Keep your phone in a waterproof case – you’ll want to capture the moment when a bald eagle soars overhead or when you discover that perfect quiet spot where the chaos of everyday life simply melts away.
Baraboo’s Farm-to-Table Treasures
After working up an appetite exploring Devil’s Lake, bypass the crowded park concessions and head into historic Baraboo. The Barn Restaurant, housed in a 100-year-old dairy barn, serves hearty Wisconsin comfort food using ingredients sourced from farms you can see from the park’s highest points.
Broadway Diner’s pancakes, made with local maple syrup, fuel hikers before dawn adventures. For something special, Driftless Glen Distillery offers craft spirits and seasonal dishes featuring foraged mushrooms and berries from the surrounding Baraboo Hills.
Don’t miss the Wednesday farmers market on the courthouse square where park rangers often shop alongside visitors. Here, you’ll find artisanal cheeses, fresh-picked apples, and homemade preserves that capture Baraboo’s authentic flavors better than any souvenir from a gift shop.
Autumn Camping Without the Crowds
Summer sees Devil’s Lake’s campgrounds booked months in advance, but savvy travelers know September and October offer the park’s most magical camping experiences with far fewer neighbors. Northern Lights Campground, tucked away from the main attractions, provides spacious sites under a canopy of maples and oaks that transform into a riot of color.
Nighttime temperatures dip into the perfect sleeping range – cool enough for campfires but rarely uncomfortably cold. The reduced humidity means clearer star-gazing and fewer insects than summer months.
For absolute solitude, reserve one of the park’s backpacking sites along the Ice Age Trail. These primitive spots require a short hike in but reward with unparalleled privacy and dawn views that will make you forget the extra effort of carrying your gear.
