Explore Pewit's Nest State Natural Area
Details
Distance
1 miles
Elevation Gain
30 ft
Route Type
Out-and-Back
Added by Cameron Cech
Located in what is seemingly farm land near Devils Lake State Park, this hidden gem offers trails to explore a small series of waterfalls.
Please note this warning from the park's website: Climbing on rock walls, cliff jumping or entering the closed area for any reason is prohibited, and violators will be subject to a $175 citation. Visitors are also prohibited from bringing in food or beverage or being on the property between 8 p.m. and 6 a.m. Fines for violations of those rules range from $175 to $200.
Starting from the parking lot it only takes 5-10 minutes to arrive at the falls; if you stay right at the fork you come to the bottom of the falls. The bottom of the falls isn't as scenic but it does offer an opportunity to swim during warmer weather. Going left at the fork takes you to the top of the gorge which houses the waterfalls. It is easy to explore the area from above, but getting into the gorge for a better view can be dangerous. Cliff jumping may be tempting, but several people who have been seriously injured doing so resulted in a rule to not allow climbing on or jumping off the rocks. The rules also say that food and drink are not allowed.
This scenic natural area can be explored in a short time and is perfect for those already visiting Devil's Lake State Park or Parfrey's Glen State Natural Area.
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Reviews
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Local Spot - Please Respect It
5 stars for the experience and views although it currently has a 1 star for the disrespect the area has been receiving. Pewit's Nest used to be a well-kept secret but that has changed in the last couple of years. I am an advocate for everyone to have access to our natural areas - but if you go please, please clean up any garbage you see, pack out what you pack in, and share this message with people you see who are not respecting the area. It deserves better.
5.0
My Favorite Place To Go In The Midwest
So fun to cliff jump, and it's absolutely gorgeous to be in. It's very slippery so be careful because I have a massive scar on my leg from slipping but it is an absolutely breath taking view
5.0
Short but Sweet
Summer is obviously the best time to go; you can chill out in the pools of water below the waterfalls and really just relax the day away. However, if you are in the mood for moderate challenge, this is not your venue. You can see everything you'd like in under 3 hours. Add a few more spots on your destination by checking out Parfrey's Glen, Natural Bridge, Baxter's Hollow, or the obvious-Devil's Lake State Park.
3.0
Beautiful spot
Pewit's Nest is a wonderful and beautiful gem featuring several waterfalls and deep pools. However, try to avoid hiking here during planting or harvesting time as the tractors on the farm fields just a stones throw from the area can be distracting. Very scenic and bring your camera!
4.0
Social Media Ruined It
It's a beautiful place that used to be really peaceful and quiet but it was leaked on social media and now it's really busy...people are littering there and just being disrespectful to the natural beauty of the site
3.0
It Was Alright But....
While I was visiting this location with my daughter and some friends many people were cliff jumping. I had to assist a person that jumped into a pool that was not deep enough. This person had a compound fracture of their leg. It's a beautiful area, there's too many people because social media blew it up, and if you're thinking about cliff jumping - don't. The person was lucky that I am oec certified and a emt. Also the DNR her watching and waiting for people to get injured. I spoke to a DNR warden and he stated that if people keep getting injured they will shut this part down.
3.0
Leave No Trace
Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!
We want to acknowledge and thank the past, present, and future generations of all Native Nations and Indigenous Peoples whose ancestral lands we travel, explore, and play on.
Nearby Adventures
Camp at Devils Lake State Park
Hike the Perimeter of Devil's Lake
Hike the East Bluff Trail to Devil's Doorway
Bouldering at Devil's Lake State Park in Wisconsin
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