East Bluff Trail, Devil’s Lake State Park, Wisconsin

Where Nature and Views Meet Without the Climb

If you’ve ever dreamed of standing on a bluff and taking in a postcard-worthy lake view but weren’t quite ready for a rugged climb, Devil’s Lake’s East Bluff Trail in Baraboo, Wisconsin is your trail.
This beginner-accessible route winds up and along the park’s eastern bluff, offering surprisingly big payoffs for a hike that’s just 1.5 miles long. With paved segments, carved rock steps and well-maintained paths, it strikes the perfect balance between scenic and doable.

From towering quartzite cliffs to serene woodland paths, the East Bluff Trail is a manageable intro to Wisconsin hiking and one that just might make you fall in love with the outdoors.

🥾 Why You’ll Love It

Whether you’re just lacing up hiking shoes for the first time or looking for a mellow way to spend a weekend afternoon, East Bluff delivers. Here’s why:

  • Cliffside Lake Views: Midway through the trail, the forest opens to sweeping vistas of Devil’s Lake—a shimmering, glacier-carved jewel cradled by stone bluffs.
  • Manageable Elevation: A gentle ~200 ft gain through rock steps and stairs makes the ascent feel more like a steady stroll than a leg-burner.
  • Trail Variety: The mix of paved pathways, wooden stairs and natural rock gives just enough variety to stay interesting while still being beginner-friendly.

🌿 Trail Highlights

Here’s what makes the East Bluff Trail one of Wisconsin’s best starter hikes:

📸 Picture-Perfect Overlooks
The viewpoints here are stunning. Bring a camera or your phone: you’ll want to remember that first moment the lake appears below you.

🌲 Forested Tranquility
Start your hike under a canopy of hardwoods, where birdsong and the occasional squirrel sighting replace city sounds.

🪨 Quartzite Cliffs
The signature feature of Devil’s Lake is its ancient quartzite bluffs. Along this trail, you’ll walk directly beside them. Massive, violet-hued rock walls that date back over a billion years.

🧭 Know Before You Go

  • Location: Devil’s Lake State Park, Baraboo, WI
  • Trailhead GPS: Main Lot (South Shore): 43.4176° N, 89.7294° W
    East Bluff Trail Start: 43.4221° N, 89.7275° W
  • Trail Length: 1.5 miles (loop)
  • Elevation Gain: ~200 feet
  • Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
  • Surface: Mix of paved, wooden steps, and rock pathways
  • Dog-Friendly: Yes, on leash
  • Best Time to Visit: April–November for mild weather and fall colors
  • Parking: Paid (see below)
  • Restrooms: Available at trailhead
  • Entry Fee: $13/day for Wisconsin plates; $16/day out-of-state
    (Daily or annual vehicle passes available)

🧳 What to Bring

Even beginner hikes go better when you’re prepared. We recommend:

  • Sturdy walking shoes or hiking boots
  • 1 liter of water per person (no drinking fountains on trail)
  • Lightweight backpack for snacks, sunscreen, or layers
  • Bug spray (especially spring through early fall)
  • Camera or phone for lake and cliff photos

Just getting started with hiking? Check out our recommended day hike gear for beginners to stay comfortable and confident on the trail

Why It’s a Must-Hike for Beginners

East Bluff Trail is proof that you don’t need to suffer through steep climbs to get epic views. It’s a short, scenic journey with enough “wow” moments to rival more advanced hikes making it the perfect stepping stone for anyone new to the trail.