The Shut-Ins Trailhead is located located next to the River Store in the Johnson Shut-Ins State Park day use area.  

Simply follow the paved trail for 0.3 miles to the boardwalk and viewing deck.  Here you’ll find stairs accessing the Shut-Ins.   Take your time exploring the unique rock formations spreading across the Black River.  The trail to the observation deck is family friendly and handicap accessible.

The Johnson Shut-Ins can be enjoyed in any season.  It’s a popular swimming hole spot in the summer and an excellent place to view fall foliage in late October/early November.  

The area is swim-at-your-own-risk.  Make sure to bring life-jackets for kids.  Use extreme caution in the high-water season.  The park does provide a flash-flood siren warning in the case of an emergency.  

Extend your hike by following the rocky trail just past the observation deck.  The trail follows along the bluff line overlooking the Black River eventually loops back to the parking lot creating a 2.25 mile loop.

Otherwise, simply retrace your steps from the boardwalk.