Are You Anxiously Awaiting Autumn in the Baraboo Hills?

As the summer heat fades and crisp autumn air settles in, the Baraboo Hills transform into a breathtaking canvas of fall colors. After months of lush green landscapes, the vibrant hues of autumn can seem almost surreal. The reds, oranges, and golds paint a picture so vivid it’s hard to believe it’s real.

Here in the heart of Wisconsin, we’re already spotting the first hints of this magical transformation. The trees around Devil’s Lake State Park and throughout the Baraboo Hills are beginning their annual color change, signaling the start of one of the most beautiful seasons in our area.

Plan Your Fall Getaway to Baraboo

If you haven’t already started planning your fall visit to Baraboo and Devil’s Lake State Park, now is the time to do so. The peak color season will be here before you know it, and you won’t want to miss this spectacular natural display. Whether you’re looking to hike the bluffs of Devil’s Lake, explore the charming streets of downtown Baraboo, or simply relax and take in the autumn scenery, there’s something for everyone during this special time of year.

To help you make the most of your fall visit to Baraboo and Devil’s Lake State Park, we’ve compiled a list of key dates and events to keep in mind:

1. Peak Fall Colors: Typically between October 1st – 15th in the Baraboo area. Nature’s timing can vary slightly each year, but this range is generally a safe bet for planning your trip.
   Learn more: Our Devil’s Lake State Park Fall Color Guide
2. Busiest Weekend at Devil’s Lake State Park: Mark your calendars for October 12th and 13th. This second weekend in October tends to be the busiest of the fall season, so plan accordingly if you prefer smaller crowds.
3. Badger Trails at Devil’s Lake State Park: From October 4th-6th, the park hosts its annual scout weekend. Expect campgrounds to be full and the park bustling with excited young adventurers.
4. Wisconsin State Cow Chip Throw & Festival: August 30th – 31st. While not strictly a fall event, this unique festival kicks off the season of autumn celebrations in our area.
5. Baraboo River Rendezvous: August 30th – September 1st. Another late summer event that bridges into the fall season.
6. Wa-Aha-Wa Fall Festival, Wisconsin Dells: September 13th. A great opportunity to extend your Baraboo trip and explore nearby attractions.
7. The Fall Fair On The Square in Downtown Baraboo: October 5th. Experience local crafts, food, and entertainment in the heart of our historic downtown.
8. The Fall Art Tour: October 18th, 19th, and 20th. Explore the works of local artists against the backdrop of peak fall colors.
9. Halloween Hikes:
   • Mirror Lake State Park: October 19th
   • Devil’s Lake State Park: October 26th

These family-friendly events offer a unique way to experience our beautiful part of Wisconsin this fall.

Baraboo and Devil’s Lake State Park offer a perfect blend of natural beauty and small-town charm. The 500-foot quartzite bluffs surrounding Devil’s Lake provide a stunning vantage point to take in the fall colors. The reflections of the colorful trees on the lake’s surface create a double dose of autumn beauty that’s hard to match anywhere else in Wisconsin.

Don’t wait to start planning your autumn adventure in Baraboo and Devil’s Lake State Park. Book your stay now and prepare to be amazed by the natural beauty and warm welcome that await you in our corner of Wisconsin this fall. To get you started here are some lodging options from folks who support this guide.