Cancel

    Open app

    Search

    Parfrey's Glen

    4.7 (20 reviews)

    Parfrey's Glen Photos

    Recommended Reviews - Parfrey's Glen

    Your trust is our priority, so businesses can't pay to alter or remove their reviews. Learn more about reviews.
    Yelp app icon
    Browse more easily on the app
    Review Feed Illustration

    Reviews With Photos

    Park sign
    PJ C.

    A real fun short hike in a geologically interesting area. Fortunately the park has reopened after being closed for almost a year due to Covid. I am glad we were here on a weekday in early spring because I can see this being packed in summer. Despite it being cool and gray it was a nice one mile hike in. To see the best parts you need to traverse the creek a number of times to get way into the glen. I was happy to have a hiking pole with me. In summer I am sure kids just go ride up the stream. I understand why this is place is so popular.

    Trail Beyond the Trail
    Sydney T.

    The same way in is the only way out but it is absolutely worth it! There are a few boulders that make this hike a little more challenging! You may also want to wear hiking shoes or shoes you don't care if they get wet!

    The gorge
    Josie M.

    We went here today just after the rain stopped. It was amazing! We only ran into a family of 4 the entire time. Reaching the waterfall at the end was refreshing! We spent about an hour hiking out & back slowly while taking in the forest.

    Not super smooth walking
    Nick J.

    Parfrey's Glenn is a hidden gem connected to Devil's lake state park. It features a deep bluff-lined ravine that leads back to a small waterfall. You take a short trail back to the ravine and then make your way through a slick moss lined boulders at the bottom of the ravine back to the falls. It's very unique to see this kind of structure in WI, but I would not recommend it for anyone that is not in shape or very comfortable on their feet. It was definitely treacherous getting back there, but worth it! Also, beware, you may get a little wet along the way, especially if you do not have good balance. The scenery reminds me a bit of Pewit's Nest, which is more accessible. So if you have experienced one and liked it, I recommend the other. Spent the day yesterday hiking. From Milwaukee, and wanted to get a bunch of unique experiences in. We left Milwaukee and hiked Governor Dodge, Tower Hill, Natural Bridge, and Parfrey's Glenn (all state parks/reserves) in one day. Was an AWESOME day. Every stop was very unique. Aside from Gov. Dodge, every stop was about an hour hike, stopping to take a few pictures at each.

    Parfrey's Glen sign inside the park
    Eric E.

    The Devil's Lake area is close to a 3 hour drive for us and we like to optimize the bluff hikes that overlook the lake. It wasn't until this past weekend that I ventured out to nearby Parfrey's Glen, and quickly realized that I had been missing out on a beautiful area. Located just 6-7 miles east of Devil's Lake, Parfrey's Glen was Wisconsin's first state natural area, designated in 1952. I couldn't locate an actual address for Parfrey so I would recommend searching your GPS device or printing a map of the area BEFORE setting out for it. The closest address to Parfrey's is neighboring Rustic Ridge Cabins located at E13981 County Road DL. Parfrey's is on County Road DL about a quarter mile west of Bluff Road. The entrance to the park is on the north side of the road, and the lot only holds about 15 cars. Shoulder parking can also be had on County Road DL, outside of the park. As an advisory, please keep in mind that a state park day permit is required. It cannot be purchased at Parfrey's, but you can buy a day pass at Devil's Lake. After heading into the parking lot at Parfrey's you'll notice a paved path leading north. This is the route you'll likely want to take to head into the Glen. The paved path is short lived as it turns into a earthen path that's just as easy to follow. For about a half mile this route seems like a common path with no discernible features. Then a rickety stream appears off to the left, and the scenery starts to change. It's after this point that you realize that you're very slowly ascending. Also about a half mile in is a Parfrey's Glen plaque that describes the history of the area. First timers should take note, the short narrative gives you some neat facts. Continuing in has you crossing a small bridge over the aforementioned stream, then a criss-crossing effort begins within the canyon. Rock walls mount on both sides and at points, becomes narrow and widens as you ascend. Traversing this portion of the park becomes more difficult. My six year old son was able to do it, but only with my helpful hands. At one point he put both of his feet into a pit of mud which almost cost him his shoes. Of course, he found this to be one of the best parts of the park. If you're hiking in this portion of the park I highly recommend a sturdy hiking boot or shoe with proper socks. Trust me, footing in this portion of the park can be dangerous, and your shoes/boots will get wet, if not totally submerged. Traversing and steadily climbing the back portions of the park are very cool. The rock formations include a mixture of rock types and moss growth was in high season in late July. Our apex and the stopping point of most is about a mile back where a smooth waterfall careens down an elevated slide of large boulders. There was a downed tree trunk that tempted further access, but safety ruled that out for my six year old. My description of Parfrey's was written with the intent of not giving too much away. I didn't know anything about this park before entering it, and our ignorance was what created a high level of bliss. Most that visit Devil's Lake overlook this hidden gem. Now that we're aware of it, I can't wait until my son can manage an even deeper hike in. Happy hiking and climbing.

    gorge
    J Warren R.

    A beautiful gorge with a small waterfall as a reward at the end. Parfrey's Glen is a must see feature if you visit Baraboo or the Devil's Lake area. The first part of the hike is a mostly easy paved path -- a veritable nature walk in the trees. The second half is difficult to navigate but spectacular for the eyes - you will be required to cross the stream several times. Be prepared to get your feet wet or if you have extraordinary balance, take your time and pick your slippery stepping stone carefully. The second half is why you choose this hike anyway and it is worth the effort -- the rock formations are stunning. Good hiking boots or water sandals recommended.

    The Glen
    Chy R.

    Not part of the Devil's Lake State Park but definitely worth a stop! The trail is not very long or rigorous, we especially enjoyed our experience because it was later in the fall and there were no crowds. I can see going in the heart of the summer to be a bit put off by it's tiny parking lot with hoards of people rushing past you or hiking in unison. The hike is beautiful and the destination is even better. There are parts of the trail where the park system once tried to install steps and rails, but Mother Nature just said, "Nope". So you will have to do a bit of off-roading of your own. Wear comfortable shoes and shoes you don't care if it gets dirty. I do wish they had a waste receptacle around the park or the restroom facilities. There were trash bags strewn about in the parking area. In a word: Instagramworthy

    Teresa B.

    Lovely spot to take the kids. 4+ years old and older. Plan on your feet getting wet. Use caution as there are some tricky spots.

    Beautiful scenery to take in

    See all

    Photo of Anna B.
    278
    179
    1232

    2 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 2
    Oh no 0

    2 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    5 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0
    Photo of PJ C.
    76
    2100
    2325

    5 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    3 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Sydney T.
    124
    17
    18

    5 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    5 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    8 years ago

    Helpful 3
    Thanks 0
    Love this 2
    Oh no 0

    12 years ago

    Helpful 4
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    8 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    2 years ago

    Nice walk, without the heavily crowded paths like Devils Lake, parking on street still requires a park permit

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Chy R.
    1162
    636
    2203

    9 years ago

    Helpful 6
    Thanks 0
    Love this 8
    Oh no 0
    Photo of B K.
    0
    1
    0

    3 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    7 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    5 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    7 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Rob W.
    0
    76
    11

    9 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    12 years ago

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    11 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    10 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    Ask the Community - Parfrey's Glen

    Review Highlights - Parfrey's Glen

    The Devil's Lake area is close to a 3 hour drive for us and we like to optimize the bluff hikes that overlook the lake.

    Mentioned in 8 reviews

    Read more highlights

    Verify this business for free

    People searched for Hiking 150 times last month within 15 miles of this business.

    Verify this business

    Natural Bridge State Park

    Natural Bridge State Park

    4.1(7 reviews)
    25.2 km

    Wisconsin's Largest Natural Bridge/Arch…read more this natural arch is located in the "Driftless Area of Southwestern Wisconsin" meaning....this natural bridge was not glaciated during the last Ice Age & is still standing strong today! Quick Facts * archeologists found charred wood in fire pits underneath this natural bridge that dates as far back as 12,000 years * this is a 530 acre state park with lots of beauty...but stay on the trails!! ‼ * the trail to the natural bridge is quick & easy! Bring your family * there are no trash cans...keep your trash on you!! * this spot is located very close to the House on the Rock * add this spot to your list of Things To Do in Wisconsin!

    This is the most bizarre State Park I've been to in Wisconsin, and I've been to many. I don't know…read morewhy it has State Park status, it's more of a State Natural Area, because there is no park office, no bathrooms of any kind, no picnic tables, no one enforcing or collecting the fee you're supposed to pay -- there's just a parking lot you drive into, for free as far as I can tell. The posted map says it has toilets and a picnic area, but they are not there. Anyway, once you park and take the mowed trail, it's a pretty short hike to the bridge, which is very, very beautiful. There are a couple of more trails you can continue to walk on, but they seemed to disappear into nothingness after a while, so we turned back. So definitely stop in for 30 minutes to see the natural beauty, but there's no reason to stay beyond that.

    Photos
    Natural Bridge State Park
    Natural Bridge State Park
    Natural Bridge State Park

    See all

    CamRock Park

    CamRock Park

    4.6(8 reviews)
    64.5 km

    I liked the mountain biking here a lot. As a beginner I found challenging trails but nothing…read moredangerous for me so that was good. I liked the mix of technical and flow on the different trails. Only lack of a star because the trails were not always labeled well causing us to get lost a couple times.

    Leo (the bulldog) and I enjoyed a hike at CamRock park. Dog park permit required, fyi. You can…read morepurchase annual passes through the city/county or else buy a daily pass on-site. This park seems predominantly geared (pun not intended, I swear!) towards mountain bike riders but there are several loops that hikers can also enjoy. (Mountain bikers need a trail pass too, fyi. Daily or annual passes can be purchased on-site). We didn't come across too many other people while we were here, despite it being a gorgeous fall day. We did meet up with one dog off-leash running with a biker. Scrraaappppe!! (dragging out soapbox) Argh! I get it - for many people they think their dog is well-behaved so they don't need to be on a leash. Well, there are rules for a reason and when people disregard those and let their dog off-leash when they shouldn't, parks crack down & change rules to not allow dogs at all (um, look at most Madison parks as a prime example). People with "well-behaved dogs" forget that #1) other people may be afraid of dogs and your off-leash dog is especially scary to them and #2) other dogs you encounter may be dog-aggressive or leash-aggressive so if your dog runs up to them, oooh boy! ANYway, back to CamRock. This was a fine spot for hiking and I'd go back if I were in the area. However, if I were driving from Madison I would probably opt for Indian Lake over CamRock for a hiking trip. I would definitely like to go back to CamRock in the spring though for some mountain biking, those trails looked like fun!

    Photos
    CamRock Park
    CamRock Park - Ride the fatty on the trails!

    Ride the fatty on the trails!

    CamRock Park

    See all

    Parfrey's Glen - hiking - Updated May 2026

    Loading...
    Loading...
    Loading...