Devil’s Lake State Park has more than 29 miles of hiking trails across two distinct areas — the East Bluff and West Bluff. Trails range from flat, lakeside paths to demanding climbs above 500-foot quartzite cliffs. Sections of the National Ice Age Trail run through the park. Trails are not maintained in winter.
Trail Details & Descriptions
All 16 trails with distance, difficulty, estimated time, and photographs — color-coded by skill level.
View all trails →Current Trail Conditions
Up-to-date trail reports including closures, icy conditions, and seasonal access notices.
Trail conditions →If You Can Only Hike One Trail
A recommendation for first-time visitors with limited time who want the best single-trail experience at the park.
Read the recommendation →Trail Facts
Vehicle admission sticker required to enter the park. Fees & passes →
⚠ Bluff Safety
Bluff trails are uneven and include slippery stone staircases and unguarded cliff edges. On average, one person dies each year from a fall and more are injured. There are no fences or guardrails. Watch children closely near cliff edges.
Stay on designated trails. Poison ivy and wild parsnip grow along trail margins. Deer ticks are common on most hiking trails.
Hazards of Devil’s Lake → About ticks → Poison ivy & wild parsnip →Hiking Tips
- Rattlesnakes, coyotes, and black bears are rarely seen on the trails and will avoid you if unprovoked. Ticks, mosquitoes, and off-leash dogs are the more common concerns.
- Wear hiking boots or athletic shoes. Flip-flops and water shoes are not appropriate for the bluff trails.
- Take a paper trail map. Visitors do get turned around in the park. Cell service is spotty in many areas.
- No drinking water is available along the trails outside of the campground and concession areas. Bring enough for your hike.
- Dress for the weather. Expect cooler, windier conditions at the lake surface and on the bluff tops. In winter, use ice cleats.
- Stay on designated trails. Going off-trail damages habitat and spreads invasive plants. Poison ivy and wild parsnip grow just off trail edges.
- Don’t hike alone. If you do, leave your itinerary and estimated return time with someone who will call the park at 608-356-8301 if you don’t check in.
- Hunting and trapping are permitted in the park. Know the seasons, and note that traps may be legally set within 100 yards of hiking trails.
Accessibility
Approximately 1.5 miles of park trails are considered accessible for visitors with mobility limitations. The majority of trails involve steep climbs, uneven terrain, and stone staircases that are not accessible.
Contact the park office at 608-356-8301 for current accessibility details.