Hit the Road, Take a Drive & See the Local Sights
No matter your pace, there’s something for every type of traveler – adventure seekers and nature lovers alike!
Your Guide to Hiking & Skiing in Wisconsin
There’s nothing like getting out into the fresh air and exploring everything South Central Wisconsin has to offer. Whether you’re looking to hit the trails or the slopes, you’ll find endless opportunities for outdoor adventure just minutes from Lucky’s Lodge on Lake Wisconsin.
Top Hiking Trails Near Lodi
Lace up your hiking boots and explore the natural beauty surrounding Lake Wisconsin. The South Central Wisconsin area is a hub for beautiful state parks and hiking trails that will take your breath away. From easy, beginner-friendly paths to scenic overlooks and gorgeous water features, there’s plenty to explore!
Lodi, WI
- Gibraltar Rock State Natural Area (1.5 miles): For visitors searching for the best hiking trails near me, this short hike is your go-to, with stunning views overlooking Lake Wisconsin and the surrounding bluffs.
- Ice Age National Scenic Trail (4.8 miles): This scenic trail through rolling hills and wooded terrain is ideal for quick or extended hikes.
- Lodi Marsh State Natural Area (6.7 miles): An option for those looking for easy hiking trails near me. Flat, easy trails through wetlands make this a great place for birdwatching and peaceful walks.
Merrimac, WI
- Parfrey’s Glen State Natural Area (6.2 miles with the ferry): A top result for travelers looking for waterfall hiking trails near me, this unique gorge hike features rock walls, a stream and a small waterfall.
- Devil’s Head Resort (6.4 miles with ferry): Offers hiking trails with elevated views in warmer months and transforms into one of the top Wisconsin ski resorts in winter.
- Merrimac Preserve (7.4 miles with ferry): Enjoy quiet trails through prairie and hills with scenic river views.
Baraboo, WI
- Devil’s Lake State Park (12.6 miles with ferry): Coined Wisconsin’s most-visited state park, Devil’s Lake is famous for its bluffs and lake views, with trails for all skill levels.
- Lower Narrows State Natural Area (13.2 miles with ferry): A historic break in the Baraboo Range where the Baraboo River flows, this former quarry turned nature preserve features dramatic cliffs and rugged trails.
- Mirror Lake State Park (24.6 miles with ferry): This is another great option for those searching for easy hiking trails near me. Enjoy beginner-friendly, wooded trails with serene lake views and sandstone cliffs.
Wisconsin Dells, WI
- Rocky Arbor State Park (31.5 miles with ferry): Enjoy picturesque forest paths and sandstone formations.
- Witches Gulch (32.7 miles with ferry): Only accessible by boat tour, explore this narrow, moss-covered slot canyon along a scenic boardwalk, making this one of the Dells’ most unique hikes.
- Dells of the Wisconsin River (32.8 miles with ferry): The namesake of the city of Wisconsin Dells, this 5-mile gorge along the Wisconsin River features beautiful sandstone formations and tributary canyons.
Worth the Drive
- Ferry Bluff State Natural Area – Sauk City, WI (20.8 miles): A short climb leads to panoramic views of the Wisconsin River.
- Indian Lake County Park – Cross Plains, WI (22.1 miles): One of Dane County’s largest parks, visitors can hike trails along the entire lake, with one even leading to a historic chapel built in 1857.
- Spring Green Preserve – Spring Green, WI (32.4 miles): Known as the “Wisconsin Desert,” this rolling sand prairie is well-known for its steep green bluff, prickly-pear cacti and lizards.
Learn more about Wisconsin’s State Parks on the Wisconsin DNR website.
Heading across the lake? Take the Merrimac Ferry to make the trip shorter!
Wisconsin’s Premier Ski Resorts
Winter in Wisconsin brings a new way to explore the outdoors. There are many ski hills in Wisconsin near Lucky’s Lodge, making it easy to plan your next winter getaway. Whether you’re looking to spend the day skiing, snowboarding or tubing, you’ll find convenient access to some of the area’s top winter destinations just a short drive from Lake Wisconsin.
- Cascade Mountain – Portage, WI (19 miles): A popular ski and snowboard resort offering a variety of terrain, snow tubing and free skiing for kids 12 and under.
- Devil’s Head Resort – Merrimac, WI (22.9 miles when ferry’s closed): A top Wisconsin ski resort with runs for all skill levels, offering downhill and cross-country skiing, snowboarding and year-round activities, including golf in the summer.
- Blackhawk Ski Area – Middleton, WI (25.2 miles): A smaller hill ideal for beginners and families.
- Bigfoot Snow Tubing – Wisconsin Dells, WI (35.7 miles): Fun, family-friendly tubing with multiple lanes.
- Christmas Mountain Village – Wisconsin Dells, WI (38.3 miles when ferry’s closed): A winter resort offering skiing, snowboarding and tubing, along with cozy accommodations and seasonal activities.
Your Basecamp for Adventure
Every good adventurer knows you need a basecamp! With its convenient location near Lodi, WI, and easy access to the best hiking trails and ski hills around, Lucky’s Lodge is your ultimate year-round destination for outdoor recreation.
After a day spent exploring, return to the lodge to relax
