Hike, bike, and catch pike
The best workout is the one you don’t even know you’re doing. Explore the outdoors in Baraboo, and you’ll have too much fun to realize you’re exercising.
The Baraboo Area is a haven for outdoors lovers. Start your adventure at Devil’s Lake, where opportunities abound. Hikers can walk the Tumbled Rock Trail between the lake’s north and south shores. The truly adventurous can climb the east bluff to visit Balanced Rock and Devil’s Doorway, enjoying a bird’s eye view of the lake’s pristine waters.
That’s just the start: Climbers can scale the bluffs. Scuba divers can explore the lake bed. Anglers can reel in walleye, bass and Northern pike. Devil’s Lake Concessions rents canoes and kayaks not only to campers but to day trippers. After your adventure, reward yourself with some ice cream at the concession stand.
If you’d rather reward yourself with an adult beverage and live music, the Devil’s Lake area has you covered. Tumbled Rock Brewery, located just outside the North Shore entrance, pairs its beers with pizza. Just down the road, Balanced Rock Winery specializes in shareable snacks suited to its reds and whites. Play a game of bags at the brewery or stroll among the vines at the winery to unwind after a day of outdoor exploration.
Recreational opportunities abound beyond Devil’s Lake State Park. The Baraboo Riverwalk welcomes walkers, bicyclists and dog owners. This 3-mile paved path links several city parks and affords views of wildlife ranging from heron to deer to ducks.
The Baraboo Area is home another state park, Mirror Lake, that delivers a peaceful experience. While Devil’s Lake is Wisconsin’s most-visited state park, Mirror Lake’s placid waters foster a serene environment for walkers and anglers.
Speaking of beautiful settings, let’s talk golf. Baraboo Country Club is an 18-hole course nestled below the Baraboo Hills. Creeks and wildlife meander through the course, located right next to Balanced Rock.
Devil’s Head Resort in Merrimac is another great option. Play 18 or even 36 holes on a course whose sloping hills draw skiers each winter. North of Baraboo, Fairfield Hills is a “par 3” course ideal for families and beginners.
Whatever you choose, be sure to reward yourself after all this exercise. Even though you sort of forgot you were working out.
