How to Explore Devil's Lake Like a Pro

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Hooray for Adventure! 

Devil's Lake is one of the most majestic places in Wisconsin. The scenery provides a glimpse of what Wisconsin could have been if those nasty glaciers didn't have to trudge through millions of years ago flattening the land like a pancake(rude). No other view in the state quite compares to that of Devil's Lake. Colorful treetops and stunning views of the sparkling water below are sure to delight those who trek to the top of the large boulder-filled hills that line the lake.

If you're looking to visit Devil's Lake for the first time have no fear! I am a seasoned veteran of this park and I have a few nifty tips and tricks to help you make the most of your adventure!

The Early Bird Gets the Worm.
As you can imagine Devil's Lake is an extremely popular park. Whether you're visiting on a camping trip or just stopping by for the day plan on hitting-up the trails early! If you're not a morning person you can still get out and hike later in the day but there will be significantly more people hiking about.


Dress in Layers.
I'm not trying to sound like your mother or anything but, layers are your friend! I've made the mistake of wearing too much clothing on brisk spring/fall days and 100% regretted the choice halfway through my trek. If you're anything like me you will get nice and sweaty, a little ventilation for the pits goes a long way!


Migrate South for an Easier Hike.
One of the main reasons people go to Devil's Lake is to see unique rock formations such as the "Devil's Doorway" or "Balanced Rock". In the past I would hike to these formations starting on the north side of the park near the beach and registration area. Going this way is fine and dandy. However, it takes a while to get to the rock formations as they're almost all the way on the other end of the lake. The hike is by no means reserved for experts or anything like that but, it does start feeling a little long especially if you're visiting on an especially hot day. So here's my hack, park in the south lot! This spot makes for a significantly shorter hike. Don't worry about missing out on a scenic trek up either, I assure you things are still very rustic!

https://fineartamerica.com/featured/devils-lake-wisconsin-marina-karsten.html

Find Balanced Rock.
Balanced Rock and I were playing and extended game of "Where's Waldo" for the longest time. For whatever reason I could never find the darn thing despite my best efforts. Until one day I finally stumbled across the little bugger! This tip goes along with my previous tip of parking in the south lot. From that side you can hike a trail called none other than, "Balanced Rock Trail". Hmmmm, I wonder where that will take you.... You guessed it, right to Balanced Rock! Now that I know this is a thing I'm somewhat embarrassed I struggled for so long but, now I've seen it and that's all that matters!

http://dnr.wi.gov/topic/parks/name/devilslake/

Beware of Nessy.
Last but not least, beware of lake monsters! Devil's Lake is rumored to have it's very own, so don't let your guard down while taking a dip to cool off!
 
There you have it! You're officially a Devil's Lake explorer in the making!
Happy Hiking! 


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