Hike Parfrey's Glen
Photography, Hiking, Rock Climbing
Intermediate
Summer
Distance: 4 miles roundtrip (out-and-back). Elevation gain: 300 ft. Hike through the glen as cliffs rise around you.
Located next to the popular Devil's Lake State Park, Parfrey's Glen holds many of the same geographical features. Parfrey's Glen is unique, however, for the rock cliffs that tower over you on both sides as you make your way though the gorge.
The mile hike from the trailhead to the glen requires some nimble climbing to make it all the way through. The trail runs parallel to a small creek, and crosses it a couple of times. The trail continues past the glen, but eventually tapers off and is often very muddy.
Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations.
Reviews
Overall rating:
An awesome appetizer/dessert hike to Devil's Lake SP
A short trip overall, Parfrey's Glen is still worth the stop. The hike back is fun and the scenery is something else. We went back in early spring before the greenery returned, I can't imagine how beautiful it'd be in the summer.
Winter is Coming
If you are not afraid of the cold, and if you live in Wisconsin you probably aren't, Parfrey's Glen is a wonderful winter destination as well. I went in the middle of a snow storm once, I brought snowshoes but I only needed them until the path got rocky. This is also only a short drive away from Natural Bridge State Natural Area and Pewit's Nest, make your day worth it. P.S.- Saw some guys with RC trucks making tracks in the snow there, it was rad!
Awesome!
The gorge is beautiful. Climbed on top of boulders and walked in the stream to get to a little waterfall.
