Baraboo Hills wilderness guide
Protected Area · WI

Baraboo Hills

The Baraboo Hills are a unique geological and ecological region in Wisconsin, beloved for its diverse habitats and recreational opportunities.

Protected Area50,0004+ Trails

Designation

Protected Area

Total Wilderness Area

50,000

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Baraboo Hills

The Baraboo Hills are a unique geological and ecological region in Wisconsin, beloved for its diverse habitats and recreational opportunities.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

The Baraboo Hills in Wisconsin are a distinct geological formation known for their prominent quartzite ridges and rich biodiversity. This area, surrounded by hardwood forests, showcases a variety of ecological habitats that support numerous species of plants and animals. Historically, the Baraboo Hills have been significant both culturally and geologically, offering insights into the area's glacial and prehistoric past. Visitors are drawn to the hills for activities like hiking, bird watching, and exploring the ancient rock formations. Notable landmarks include Devil's Lake, a glacial lake enclosed by striking bluffs and regarded as one of the most scenic spots in Wisconsin. Outdoor enthusiasts can also find a variety of trails that cater to different levels of hiking experience, each providing unique scenic views and opportunities for wildlife observation. The area's appeal lies in its blend of natural beauty, recreational opportunities, and outdoor adventure.

Field Guide · Protected Area
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Baraboo Hills

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 60 miles.

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Devil's Lake and its surrounding bluffs✦ Rare ecological communities like oak savannas and pine relicts✦ Ice Age Trail, a long-distance hiking trail following glacial remnants✦ Parfrey's Glen, a unique scenic gorge and State Natural Area
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Baraboo Hills

Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.

Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in Baraboo Hills
Park Recreation

Camping

Available in Baraboo Hills
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in Baraboo Hills
Park Recreation

Climbing

Available in Baraboo Hills
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in Baraboo Hills
Park Recreation

Nature Study

Available in Baraboo Hills
Park Recreation

Picnicking

Available in Baraboo Hills
The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Baraboo Hills.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

State park admission fees required.

Wilderness Checklist

Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.
Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.
Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.
Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
Wilderness Stays

Camping & Overnight Stays in Baraboo Hills

Frontcountry developed campgrounds, backcountry wilderness permit guidelines, and starry-night camping advice.

Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Baraboo Hills

Stay, dine, and gear up in these mountain towns and scenic basecamps surrounding the park.

Baraboo, Wisconsin
⌖ 3.22 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Baraboo, Wisconsin

Baraboo, WI is an adventure lover's haven with exceptional hiking, climbing, and paddling opportunities, especially around the iconic Devil's Lake State Park. A year-round destination with scenic charm.

Spring and Fall
Explore Town
Merrimac, Wisconsin
⌖ 6.72 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Merrimac, Wisconsin

Merrimac, WI offers a quiet escape for outdoor enthusiasts. With hiking at Devil’s Lake, kayaking the Wisconsin River, and biking scenic routes, it’s a haven for nature lovers.

Spring and Autumn
Explore Town
North Freedom, Wisconsin
⌖ 6.98 miles
Gateway Basecamp

North Freedom, Wisconsin

North Freedom offers a quiet retreat with access to Wisconsin's natural beauty. From hiking in the Baraboo Hills to paddling at Mirror Lake, it's perfect for outdoor adventures.

Spring and Fall
Explore Town
Prairie du Sac, Wisconsin
⌖ 9.13 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Prairie du Sac, Wisconsin

Prairie du Sac offers a peaceful outdoor escape with paddling on the Wisconsin River, accessible hiking and biking trails, and great bird watching. Nearby parks add winter snowshoeing options, making it a year-round base for nature lovers.

Spring through Fall for paddling and hiking; Winter for snowshoeing
Explore Town
Rock Springs, Wisconsin
⌖ 9.75 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Rock Springs, Wisconsin

Rock Springs offers a peaceful retreat with access to hiking at Devil's Lake, biking through scenic landscapes, and paddling on the Baraboo River, providing a perfect escape for nature enthusiasts.

Spring and Fall
Explore Town
Sauk City, Wisconsin
⌖ 10.55 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Sauk City, Wisconsin

Sauk City offers a peaceful outdoor escape with river paddling, easy cycling routes, and nearby hiking in protected areas. Ideal for travelers seeking a quiet basecamp along the Wisconsin River.

Late Spring through Early Fall for paddling and biking; Winter for cross-country skiing
Explore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Baraboo Hills

Explore scenic backcountry routes and epic wilderness adventures with certified local mountain guides, naturalists, and outfitters.

Caboose Rides
ADVEXPEDITION
North Freedom, Wisconsin
TrainADV Bookable

Caboose Rides

Hop aboard a vintage 1924 wooden caboose and enjoy a scenic 55-minute ride through Wisconsin’s countryside. Discover railroading history and explore fascinating restored trains at the Mid-Continent Railway Museum.

Train1 Hour • 7 mile ride • Ride in the Caboose • Museum admission includedCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Harvest Flyer
ADVEXPEDITION
North Freedom, Wisconsin
TrainADV Bookable

Harvest Flyer

Enjoy a charming 55-minute train ride through Sauk County’s stunning fall colors, complete with hot cider and donuts served at your seat. Discover the rich railroad history before or after your trip!

Train1 Hour • 7 mile ride • Evening Ride with Hot Apple Cider and a Donut • 1 Day only, Oct 18Certified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Holiday Flyer
ADVEXPEDITION
North Freedom, Wisconsin
TrainADV Bookable

Holiday Flyer

Celebrate the holiday season with a scenic 55-minute train ride through Sauk County, filled with festive music, decorations, and treats. Discover historic trains and seasonal magic at the Mid-Continent Railway Museum in North Freedom, Wisconsin.

Train1 Hour • 7 mile ride • Festive Evening Ride with Hot Chocolate • 1 Day Only, Dec. 6thCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Santa Express
ADVEXPEDITION
North Freedom, Wisconsin
TrainADV Bookable

Santa Express

Step aboard the Santa Express in North Freedom, Wisconsin, for a festive 55-minute train ride with Santa himself. Enjoy holiday magic in early 1900s coaches and make lasting Christmas memories.

Train1 Hour • 7 mile ride • Meet Santa OnboardCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Broken Bottle Wine Tasting
ADVEXPEDITION
Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin
WineryADV Bookable

Broken Bottle Wine Tasting

Join Broken Bottle Winery in Wisconsin Dells for a private 30-minute tasting featuring seven unique dry and sweet wines. Learn the stories behind each pour while enjoying a cozy, relaxed setting.

Winery30 Minutes • Ages 21+ • Includes 7 wines, either dry or sweetCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Distillery Tour
ADVEXPEDITION
Prairie du Sac, Wisconsin
Guided TourADV Bookable

Distillery Tour

Discover the craft behind Wisconsin’s finest spirits with a hands-on distillery tour in Sauk City. Sample signature cocktails and enjoy a rich history lesson on local distilling traditions.

Guided TourAvailable Select Saturdays | $18/adultCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip