This Week at Devil’s Lake — July 9th, 2026
Area trails are in good shape, but expect mud in spots from our on-and-off rain recently, particularly on the Steinke Basin Loop and the Uplands Trail.
Two plant hazards to keep in mind right now, especially on outlying trails: Poison Ivy and Wild Parsnip. Both are active. Watch for them along the trail edges and around benches on the less-traveled paths — they’re easy to brush up against if you’re not looking. Learn more – Poison ivy & Wild Parsnip (Mosquitos and ticks are in full force as well.) Stay on the path.
Special Notes This Weekend, July 11–12, 2026
Dances with Dirt trail race: A trail running event (Dances with Dirt: Devil’s Lake) takes place in and around the park on Saturday, July 11, starting as early as 5:30 AM and continuing into the afternoon. Expect increased trail traffic, temporary congestion on roads around the lake, and limited parking near the race start/finish area at Devil’s Head Ski Resort in Merrimac. Visitors hiking near Steinke Basin and the bluff trails Saturday morning should expect runners and race support on the trail.
North Shore boat launch and pet swim area closed: The North Shore boat landing is closed for dredging through early August. Boaters should use the South Shore boat launch. The North Shore pet swim area is closed for the same reason — pets should use the South Shore pet swim area instead.
Devil’s Lake region weather forecast from the National Weather Service