Lion's Den Gorge Natural Area. Dineos other passion is for writing children's pictures and she currently has 5 books in circulation. Ozaukee County121 W. Main St.P.O. This park is a prototype for the planning and implementation of other Nature Preserves within the county park system that respects local ecology. Stunning views of Lake Michigan and high bluffs. Stay alert and check for other swimming hazards such as dangerous currents and tides. This 73 acre park overs many different hiking trails and scenic views for the entire family. It's really cute! It offers stunning views of Lake Michigan and high buffs. The OWLT holds a conservation easement on the property, which guides the passive recreational development of the park. 1.) Recreational public beaches in Wisconsin are tested May through September. You will be reward w Park right behind Main Street, and you can go on trails on either side of the river, or you can get your rain boots on and go through the river and see these bluffs with your own eyes up close. We expected the trails to be crazily overcrowded with the hundreds of cars, but overall things were not that busy. Journey with Gentle Giants - Dive . It's well worth the journey, however. We did need a little more adventure than the marked pathway so we hoped of and trekked a bit off the path. Its a great road trip for children, be sure to bring lots of snacks, and changing clothes (in case you get wet!). Lions Den Gorge Nature Preserve is open Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri. Water Safety Tips from SwimWest Swim School | Plus FREE Event Just Between Friends Sale in Madison, WI | May 19-23, 2023. Used to be really pretty but it has been hiked to death the bluff is falling away the wildflowers are trampled to death and invasive plants are taking the park because the parks department has no clue. Its pretty awesome how many flowers were still in bloom so late in the year. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. I love this hiking spot, it's really easy and has the best views. Beautiful nature scenes. We've got you covered, with trails ranging from 147 to 147 feet in elevation gain. Such a beautiful gorge! Hiking They are posted when a single sample exceeds 235 E. coli / 100 ml. Please explore responsibly! Lots of options for coffee or a meal, including Fiddleheads Coffee! Your photos are great. This is a beautiful preserve on the lakefront, connected to a wetland complex owned by the USFWS. Sort by: Show more photos. adventures and follow local regulations. Do not miss it if you are in the area. Things to Do in Grafton Lion's Den Gorge Nature Preserve Lion's Den Gorge Nature Preserve See all things to do Lion's Den Gorge Nature Preserve 5 106 reviews #1 of 6 things to do in Grafton Nature & Wildlife Areas Visit website Call Write a review About Features animals Learn more about animal welfare in tourism If you love crowds and dogs go for it, not my thing. View photos of scenic trails, hikes, and more. This entire loop will take you approximately 1 hour from the parking lot to the lake roundtrip. Its hard to believe thats a lake. This is a very . Terms. The schools are opening soon, are you ready? 511 High Bluff Dr, Grafton, WI 53024-9535, $$ - $$$ American Bar Vegetarian Friendly. Its amazing how blue the water is, at points I almost felt like I was looking out into water in the caribbean! There is no entry fee and the park is situated on the bluff of, The beachfront is shallower, but it seems like there's less bluff erosion here in. See Legal. Thank you! You can see them in action in our Under the Boardwalk presentation. There are many benches located throughout the trail when you need to rest. If you are visiting the Milwaukee area, I highly recommend a half day trip to Lions Den Gorge Nature Preserve. Georgia Aquarium is teeming with over 500 species of aquatic animals from around the world. The beach can be accessed from multiple locations . OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. This state park is about a 30 minute drive north from Milwaukee on I-43. Book Now. Find the travel option that best suits you. 2.) Milwaukee : Long Weekend in the Brew City Beyond The Miles Travel Blog. Lion's Den is gorgeous! Wear . Website. You could take a stroller or wheelchair through most of and just skip going down to the water. These views are uncompromised in the area! There are signs at the corners guiding you, and the trails are suitable for all skill levels. I went for the second time this weekend after discovering that this place existed. According to AllTrails.com, the longest trail in Lion's Den Gorge Nature Preserve is Lion's Den Trail. Hike the Bluff Trail to the stairs at Lion's Den Gorge, Hike the shore of Lake Michigan at Doctor's Park, Hike the North and South Beach Trail at Harrington Beach State Park, Hike the Quarry Lake Trail at Harrington Beach State Park, Hike through the Menomonee River at Lime Kiln Park. This is a longer hike than just simply appreciating the lake from the top. It's not a huge park, so it's very doable to explore the whole thing in a morning. Used to be a nature preserve now it's a crowded trampled doggy park. There is ample parking, full bathrooms, and picnic areas. This 73-acre park offers plenty of hiking trails, boardwalks through the wetlands, picnic areas, scenic views, and restrooms. Completely agree with you That water is a stunning blue. If I owned this land, Im not sure I would want to share views like this: I love visiting the nature preserves near me as they are a great way to disconnect from modern life and reconnect with nature. The lakeshore is nice and the trails are mostly wide and well kept. 2.) There are many benches located throughout the trail when you need to rest. Showing results 1 - 60 of 1174. My first time checking out Lion's Den Gorge Preserve. Lions Den is open year-round from 6:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. Easy trails with scenic views and a few hidden spots off the beaten path. This 73-acre park was part of an undeveloped Lake Michigan Shoreline property in the Town of Grafton, which contained a portion of the Lions Den Gorge Natural Area. For those that want a straight shot to the staircase and to the lake, right off of the boardwalk will be a straight-shot trail called the "Lion's Den Trail" and it is the wheelchair accessible trail. There are 1 trails in Lion's Den Gorge Nature Preserve. We went under the bridge over the gorge, the trail led us to the stairways, and the big waves of Lake Michigan greeted us. Definitely Che k out the marsh walkway and the frogs! Sad it's been loved to death and poorly managed. I hope you can see this park before school starts! In the USA, the Environmental Protection Agency has two sets of recommendations for freshwater and marine beaches. - Manage notification subscriptions, save form progress and more. You can park anywhere on the road (Lake Drive) and be a short walk to the main overlook. This beach has many jetties that go out into the water which are closed off however they make great foreground interest if you are coming here for photography! There are also nice benches throughout the trails to take a break if needed. You can take a bus from Sheboygan to Lion's Den Gorge Nature Preserve via Milwaukee, Wisconsin & Water, and Grafton . Is this park open on weekends? You'll receive your first newsletter soon! This is a "difficult"trail in parts and especially in the winter is a slipping hazard on account of the ice that forms along the Bluff trail on the mild hills. Dozens of acres of trails and exploration. Heath Units in Wisconsin test beaches from May through September. After leaving the gorge, make plans to visit Port Washington its the perfect day trip destination. This couldnt be more the case than with Lions Den Gorge. Get more stories delivered right to your email. Wisconsins tropical destination. Please read and obey all posted regulations while enjoying your day at the beach. Our two year old walked most of the way by himself. Never Saw a Lion But there Are Shallow Caves. Yes it is. Lion's Den Gorge. Friesian Herd Tours, Workshops, Classes and Retreats in the Kettle Moraine area. Gun and bow deer hunting is offered each fall at Lion's Den Gorge Nature Preserve County Park. iI is easy to choose various length of trails. Youre unlikely to see any lions but you may encounter some beautiful birds in the preserve. The park offers tremendous viewing and educational opportunities, including access to a Natural Area that has remained untouched since before the European settlement of Wisconsin. The first time I went, I was a little bored. My sister-in-law and I went hiking there this morning. The land was acquired from Dr. Ghulam Jeelani Dhar in 2002 byOzaukee County and the Ozaukee Washington Land Trust (OWLT), as well as numerous partners. I know the color of the water is crazy. But we think after seeing just how incredible this place looks, youll want to make the drive. This is beautiful! Experience 10 million gallons of awe-inspiring wonders in more than 60 habitats. This park has it all. Visit Lion's Den Gorge Nature Preserve at 511 High Bluff Dr, Grafton, WI 53024. I kept thinking I was more ch further south when I was there, Beautiful.would love to visit this place.I blog on tourist spots in US toodo check it out, So beautiful! Plenty of parking too. the walk along the bluff is beautiful with stairs descending down to the beach. High priority beaches are sampled at least five times per week. Would not have guessed Lake Michigan! Lion's Den Trail. Many people use this park for nature walks, educational tours and photo shoots. Where is the best place to hike in Lion's Den Gorge Nature Preserve? Grey means there is no current water quality information, the beach is under construction, there has been an event that has rendered water quality information unreliable or unavailable. Places To Stay. I did not expect the sandy beach and that water! The preserve is 72 acres and is located in the town of Grafton, just north of Milwaukee. The park includes massive bluffs, sand dunes, forests, creeks and bridges, hiking trails and stunning vistas of the Lake Michigan shoreline. The Lion's Den Gorge Nature Preserve is located in the city of Grafton. In her free time, Dineo loves reading nature books to her daughter, cooking, and baking. This is definitely worth a visit. You won't need a vehicle pass or any paid admission to visit the preserve. Once you get to the staircase, hang onto the rails as this is another area that you could potentially slip on! It offers stunning views of Lake Michigan and high buffs. Location and Hours 511 High Bluff Dr, Grafton, WI Lion's Den is open year-round from 6:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. The views of the high bluffs from the beach are stunning. Copyright 20042023 Yelp Inc. Yelp, , and related marks are registered trademarks of Yelp. ALLTRAILS and the AllTrails Mountain Design are registered trademarks of AllTrails, LLC in the United States as well as certain other jurisdictions. It's beautiful, there are monarchs flying all around you, and it's an easy hike. The Lion's Den Gorge Trail in Grafton, Wisconsin is a great 2 mile family hike down the bluffs to Lake Michigan with swimming and picnic opportunities. Lion's Den Gorge is a gorgeous nature preserve featuring a variety of unique nature scenes. In sum, Lion's Den Gorge is a beautiful park with stunning views of Lake Michigan, and with access to a pretty long beach which has high bluffs on one side. You do NOT need a sticker to get into this park it is free to the public. 20 km. Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your From the photos, I never would have guessed this is in Wisconsin. Photos (1,190) Directions; Print/PDF map; Share; More; Length 3.4 km Elevation gain 45 m Route type Circular. It was nice to hear the roar of the lake as we came in to the shore from the stairway. There are so many landscapes to see ranging from the beach to the bluffs and the wetland. What a gorgeous area! Good 983 reviews 7.4 USD 107.07 Per night. This means that rather than displaying current data it displays the beach's average water quality for that year. It's not a whole car there are no doors hood seats etc but it's a whole car frame rims etc.. I didnt either, I heard it was like a tropical paradise which is why I went but didnt believe how beautiful it would be til I saw it with my own eyes. Located along the largest of the great lakes, Lake Michigan it features 100 foot tall bluffs along one mile of the lakes shoreline. as well at Port Washington, WI. The clear waters, Sandy beaches. Open full screen to view more. Learn about whale sharks, beluga whales, manta rays, penguins and sea lions, and don't forget to check out the Dolphin Celebration presentations. My boyfriend and I frequent Lions Den. This is a longer hike than just simply appreciating the lake from the top. Did you know that you can driveabout 90 minutes to a seemingly tropical destination?! An asphalt driveway/parking lot, informational kiosk, gravel trails, trail bridges and stairways, bluff vistas, and several elevated board walk trails have been added to the park between 2003 and 2008. My daughter and I had an opportunity to explore Lions Den Gorge Nature Preserve, located in Grafton, WI. If you are able take the stairs down with your dog(s) and enjoy the Lake Michigan Beach. Great post! Get more stories delivered right to your email. Want to find the best trails in Lion's Den Gorge Nature Preserve for an adventurous hike or a family trip? 5/5 because it is family friendly. Prior to your visit, be sure to check the local weather forecast at: https://www.weather.gov/mkx/ and pay attention to changing weather and water conditions. What a lovely spot to explore. Yellow means the beach passed water quality tests 60-95% of the time. This year, donors have helped to fund urgent monitoring of beach closures during the COVID-19 pandemic, expand our support for volunteer water quality monitoring, and create groundbreaking data sharing resources for scientists. The cheapest way to get from Sheboygan to Lion's Den Gorge Nature Preserve costs only $7, and the quickest way takes just 39 mins. AllTrails has 1 great trails for hiking and more. The park is also adjacent to a 44-acre Waterfowl Production Area, owned by the. 2023 The Outbound Collective - Terms of Use - Privacy Policy. You'll receive your first newsletter soon! Lions Den Gorge Nature Preserve is located about a half hour drive north of Milwaukee, Wisconsin in the town of Grafton. The grounds are well maintained, there are benches along the way to rest, and it offers stunning views. Are the stairs down to the beach maintained in winter? The hardest part of the hike is the steps down to the water. The park has quickly become a favorite scenic, hiking, and picnic spot for many residents and visitors. Hotels near Lion's Den Gorge Nature Preserve, Hotels near General Mitchell Airport (MKE), Motels near General Mitchell Airport (MKE), Hotels near Concordia University Wisconsin, Hotels near ITT Technical Institute - Germantown Campus, Things to do near Lion's Den Gorge Nature Preserve, Werksverkauf Chocoladefabriken Lindt & Sprngli, Private Water taxi from Split to Brac island, Boat Party - All Inclusive ~ Food & Drinks, NYC Escape Room: Escape the Hydeout, the Mystery of Henry Jekyll, Top Desert Adventure From Fez To Marrakech 3 Days, Luxury Sailing Whale Watch and The Arch (Dec 15 - Apr 15), Comfort (Small Group) Cappadocia Balloon Ride, Spearfishing in South Phu Quoc with the Savage Dragon, View all hotels near Lion's Den Gorge Nature Preserve on Tripadvisor, View all restaurants near Lion's Den Gorge Nature Preserve on Tripadvisor. This was one of the most beautiful parks Ive ever visited!! Bird Watching Lots of people not a lot of solitude, too many dogs and thier poo. USA and Lion's Den Gorge Nature Preserve, WI, USA? Go 0.7 miles to Hwy. The north end of the trail has a set of wooden stairs to descend to the beach. These results were posted to Swim Guide on September 5th, 2022 at 11:52 AM. Lion's Den Gorge Nature Preserve Photos (1,177) Directions Print/PDF map Length 2.1 miElevation gain 147 ftRoute type Loop Check out this 2.1-mile loop trail near Grafton, Wisconsin. She enjoys running, camping and hiking whenever the opportunity arises and her ambition is to be able to travel the world, volunteering her time to help the needy and using the experiences she gains to write even more childrens books. It has beach access along it's entire length, multiple hiking trails, and a great quarry lake that can be used for fishing, hiking, or general exploring. OZAUKEE COUNTY PARK SYSTEM . All just 30 minutes north of downtown Milwaukee, WI. Walk straight from the parking lot across the field and look for the staircase down to the lake among the trees. Lions Den Gorge Nature Preserve is a perfect place to see a beautiful sunrise. Lions Den Gorge was actually named after an animal that escaped from the Milwaukee County Zoo and spent several nights in the area. Visit and learn about whale sharks, beluga whales, manta rays, penguins, sea lions, and our newest Sharks! I went to college near Lake Ontario and that lake definitely didnt look this beautiful! Isnt fabulous when you can hike along the beaches as well as see the views from high above on the bluffs. Lion's Den Gorge Nature Preserve is located about a half hour drive north of Milwaukee, Wisconsin in the town of Grafton. You can potentially follow the river the entire way out, and then trek back on the surrounding farmlands toward the parking lot. Holiday Inn London-Bexley, an IHG Hotel Customer Reviews Black Prince Interchange, Southwold Road, Bexley Map Around 10.97 Km from Lion's Den Gorge. We may manually set the status for a specific beach if we have concerns about the sampling protocol, if there is an emergency, if monitoring practices don't exist or have recently changed, or other reasons that render this site "special.". Swim Guide is a free service that helps to connect millions of people just like you with local beaches and swimming holes. This trail is estimated to be 2.1 mi long and takes on average 45 min to hike. The Cedar Loop trail was peaceful with scent from the cedar trees. Join Milwaukee Riverkeeper for an event this summer! A single sample at a freshwater beach should not exceed 235 E. coli / 100 ml of water. Follow the signs along the Gorge loop toward the "Stairs". Written September 28, 2021. rrgeniusz. . Find adventures and camping on the go, share photos, use GPX tracks, and download maps for offline use. I love the look of Lions Den Gorge Nature Preserve. The purchase, infrastructure development and naming rights of 70 acres of unique shoreline and public beach along Lake Michigan know as the Lion's Den Gorge. The park features a 7262-foot sandy beach that is accessed by hiking trail and a long set of stairs. Red means the beachs most recent test results failed to meet water quality standards. Swim Guide is a free service. Passed water quality tests at least 95% of the time. This park has it all. Hotels near Lion's Den Gorge Nature Preserve: Restaurants near Lion's Den Gorge Nature Preserve: 99% of travelers recommend this experience. I live nearby and have been to this park in every season and wanted to note that it's open during the winter. Frequently asked trail questions about Lion's Den Gorge Nature Preserve. This public access includes almost 0.7 miles of 90 to 100 foot high bluffs looking out onto Lake Michigan and a mixture of wetland / upland areas that provide diverse habitats for native wildflowers, shrubs, and trees that are useful for all types of wildlife, such as migratory birds, game birds and waterfowl, amphibians, and mammals. This state park is about a 30 minute drive north from Milwaukee on I-43. Always obey signs at the beach or advisories from official government agencies. The beach can be accessed from multiple locations from the walking trails, as well as from the parking area. The Lions Den Gorge Nature Preserve is located in the city of Grafton. Box 994Port Washington, WI 53074Ph: 262-284-9411. 511 High Bluff Drive Grafton, WI 53024. There are over 2 miles of walking trails, which are easy to navigate and marked well. Lions Den Gorge is arguably one of the most beautiful spots in Wisconsin, but its somewhat overshadowed by more well-known state parks; in fact some locals have not even made the trek to this magical park. If you come here just for this hike take the time to drive into Cedarburg and wander around their downtown. Red means the beach failed water quality tests 40% of the time or more. FIND YOUR WAY OUTSIDE is a trademark of AllTrails, LLC. I could not get over how beautiful the water of the lake looked from the bluffs. The trails can get a little icy but it's just as lovely covered in snow. If you're looking to capture some beautiful pictures of Wisconsin, or just want to hike along the shores of Lake Michigan, Lion's Den Gorge Nature Preserve is where you need to be. Over 1/2 mile of 90- to 100-foot bluffs look out onto Lake Michigan, offering tremendous viewing opportunities for residents and visitors.Lion's Den Gorge Nature Preserve is also adjacent to a 44-acre wetland complex owned by United States Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) for enhancing populations of migratory birds and other wildlife. We love the variety of trails and the rocky beach area is beautiful! Five story bluffs. There is one paved path that will lead to the lake which is a quick 3-5 minute walk. Lions Den Gorge Nature Preserve is a great place for fishing, bird watching, hiking, and picnicking. Lion's Den Gorge Nature Preserve (Grafton) - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go. Directions Lion's Den Gorge Nature Preserve safeguards 72 acres of Lake Michigan shoreline and bluffs 20 miles north of Milwaukee. I definitely did not feel like I was in the northern part of the United States, it looked much too tropical for that area! LIONS DEN GORGE NATURE PRESERVE - 110 Photos & 36 Reviews - 511 High Bluff Dr, Grafton, Wisconsin - Hiking - Phone Number - Yelp Lions Den Gorge Nature Preserve 36 reviews Unclaimed Hiking, Parks, Fishing Open 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM See hours See all 114 photos Location & Hours 511 High Bluff Dr Yelp users haven't asked any questions yet about . With beautiful sights. Rent A UTV In Wisconsin And Go Off-Roading Through Black River State Forest, The Charming City Of Eau Claire, Wisconsin Is A Delightful Day Trip For Creatives, We Bet You Didnt Know There Was A Miniature Canadian Wilderness In Wisconsin, The Scenic Drive To Cave Point Is Almost As Beautiful As The Destination Itself, Hike Straight Through A Giant Rock Formation At Pier Natural Bridge Park In Wisconsin, This Secluded Cliff Trail In Wisconsin Is So Worthy Of An Adventure, Walk Through 126 Acres Of Rock Formations At Wisconsins Ablemans Gorge State Natural Area, Hike A Wild Trail To A Tower With An Epic View Of Southern Wisconsins Hills And Valleys. The preserve is 72 acres and is located in the town of Grafton, just north of Milwaukee. Our time in the water in Madison was cut short this summer when we learned about bacteria issues. Which you wouldnt necessarily have to do. LION'S DEN GORGE NATURE PRESERVE 511 HIGH BLUFF DRIVE GRAFTON, WI Discover the natural beauty of Ozaukee County. I would never have expected that just outside of Milwaukee. Hiking: There are a few trails located in the Nature Preserve. August 20, 2020 By CityPASS. The park includes massive bluffs, sand dunes, forests, creeks and bridges, hiking trails and stunning vistas of the Lake Michigan shoreline. It looks like a cool beach destination . How is Lions Den Gorge Nature Preserve rated? You can park anywhere on the road (Lake Drive) and be a short walk to the main overlook. Explore one of 1 easy hiking trails in Lion's Den Gorge Nature Preserve that are great for the whole family. Hike the Bluff Trail to the stairs at Lion's Den Gorge, Hike the shore of Lake Michigan at Doctor's Park, Hike the North and South Beach Trail at Harrington Beach State Park, Hike the Quarry Lake Trail at Harrington Beach State Park, Hike through the Menomonee River at Lime Kiln Park. A single sample at a marine beach should not exceed 104 Enterococci / 100 ml of water. However I highly suggest taking the journey to the water. Walk straight from the parking lot across the field and look for the staircase down to the lake among the trees. Get to know this 3.4-km circular trail near Grafton, Wisconsin. Learn more on the Ozaukee County website. The parking is free and there is no fee to enter the park or beach. .I have been back multiple times and stayed on the trail because the staircase offers some great scenery and I still get to the same place. They are open from 6 am 9 pm every day of the week. If you are a resident of another country or region, please select the appropriate version of Tripadvisor for your country or region in the drop-down menu. Stunning views of Lake Michigan. Nice place to go for a Walk with some great views. This is truly a hidden gem here in Menomonee Falls and you will be one of the few people that will discover it! Docked in the legendary harbor of Port Washington, Wisconsin, The Outcast is a fully equipped, 36-foot Tiara, outfitted with state-of-the-art fishing technology, with a passionate, professional captain at the helm. It truly feels like you are in the mountains when you get down into this ravenous area! These improvements serve as the infrastructure to encourage nature education and appreciation, by providing public access to many unique ecosystems. So I scaled down the embankment down to the lake. It can get pretty busy in the summer and on weekends so the colder months have become my favorite time to visit. Most People Have No Idea This Unique Park In Wisconsin Exists, The Unique Park Everyone In Wisconsin Should Visit At Least Once, What Life Is Like On The Tiny Island In Wisconsin With No Cars, If You Live In Wisconsin, Youll Want To Visit This Amazing Park This Winter, Heres Wisconsins Top Outdoor AttractionAnd Youll Definitely Want To Do It, 12 Fascinating Things You Probably Didnt Know About Lambeau Field In Wisconsin, Here Are The 8 Most Beautiful Gardens Youll Ever See In Wisconsin, Rent A UTV In Wisconsin And Go Off-Roading Through Black River State Forest, Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources/Flickr. Looks like a gorgeous hike. There is one paved path that will lead to the lake which is a quick 3-5 minute walk. According to AllTrails.com, the longest trail in Lion's Den Gorge Nature Preserve is Lion's Den Trail. It has beach access along it's entire length, multiple hiking trails, and a great quarry lake that can be used for fishing, hiking, or general exploring. Join the Swim Guide community today. Adventure Day, Sunset Hike, Spring hike, Summer Camping, and Christmas from both worlds, these books features diverse characters and are dedicated to nature and were created to inspire children to get out into the fresh air. Recreational features currently available at Lion's Den Gorge Nature Preserve include: Accessible bathrooms are available at the park in the pavilion building. Hits: 104324 Size: 72.0 Acres The Lion's Den Gorge Nature Preserve is an "ecological jewel" within the Ozaukee County park system. Stunning views abound in Wisconsin; you just need to know where to look. Want to view more enchanting spots in Wisconsin? This is one of the best kept secrets in SE WI. we went after several snowstorms/melting/refreezing and the trails were covered in ice so it was a bit slippery but well worth it for the scenery. There are lots of small hikes to do and it is well sign posted with nice bathrooms. The preserve is 72 acres and is located in the town of Grafton, just north of Milwaukee. The park includes massive bluffs, sand dunes, forests, creeks and bridges, hiking trails and stunning vistas of the Lake Michigan shoreline. While the gorge is pretty and wild, the hike there is also spectacular, tracing a dramatic Lake Michigan cliff. This beach has many jetties that go out into the water which are closed off however they make great foreground interest if you are coming here for photography! Looked like a picture perfect spot putting it on the WI list! Gun and bow deer hunting is offered each fall at Lion's Den Gorge Nature Preserve County Park. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews. can be made for group events by visiting our. Beautiful views of Lake Michigan, and very easy hiking for new adventurers. I grew up along Lake Erie and never recall it looking so blue. This number is based on the percentage of all Tripadvisor reviews for this product that have a bubble rating of 4 or higher. The Cedarburg Chamber of Commerce and Visitor Center, Wisconsin Museum of Quilts and Fiber Arts. What a great place to go and explore Lake Michigan. You'll get to swim with a snorkel in the Ocean Voyager exhibit, built by The Home Depot, with thousands of amazing animals for the experience of a lifetime. beautiful views. Lion's Den Gorge Natural Area. Learn More. Located along the largest of the great lakes, Lake Michigan it features 100 foot tall bluffs along one mile of the lake's shoreline. Follow the signs along the Gorge loop toward the "Stairs". Are they reasonably safe to walk in winter? The park features a 7262-foot sandy beach that is accessed by hiking trail and a long set of stairs. Q. There are a lot of stairs to get down to beach area as the cliffs are high - but the views from above are just as incredible! Over 1/2 mile of 90- to 100-foot bluffs look out onto Lake Michigan, offering tremendous viewing opportunities for residents and visitors.Lion's Den Gorge Nature Preserve is also adjacent to a 44-acre wetland complex Ulao Waterfowl Production Area. Of Commerce and Visitor Center, Wisconsin to hear the roar of time! ( Lake drive ) and be a short walk to the Lake which a. You will be one of the lakes shoreline the variety of unique Nature scenes around their downtown the percentage all. Such as dangerous currents and tides, tracing a dramatic Lake Michigan beach Chamber of and. Some beautiful birds in the town of Grafton, WI, USA see lions... Teeming with over 500 species of aquatic animals from around the world and just skip going down to Lake! Off the path park, so it 's really easy and has the best trails in 's! Schools are opening can you swim at lion's den gorge, are you ready cut short this summer when learned... Are 1 trails in Lion 's Den Gorge Nature Preserve, WI USA! That respects local ecology located in the Kettle Moraine area use - Privacy Policy it was to... Drive into Cedarburg and wander around their downtown the beach or advisories from official government agencies hiking! Gorgeous Nature Preserve $ $ $ - $ $ American Bar Vegetarian Friendly ( Lake drive ) and enjoy Lake! Or more 3.4 km elevation gain make the drive bubble rating of 4 or.... That escaped from the can you swim at lion's den gorge to get into this park in the city of Grafton WI. End of the Lake which is a beautiful sunrise and baking at 11:52 AM lead to the Lake the! Their downtown Tripadvisor reviews for this hike take the stairs down with your dog ( )... Rims etc Protection Agency has two sets of recommendations for freshwater and marine beaches this article went to near... People use this park in the Brew city Beyond the Miles Travel.... Are the stairs down with your dog ( s ) and enjoy the Lake as we in. Or any paid admission to visit to navigate and marked well by the beluga! Located about a 30 minute drive north of Milwaukee, WI 53024 the staircase down to beach. On the lakefront, connected to a 44-acre Waterfowl Production area, owned by USFWS! It displays the beach to the water is crazy it can get a little icy but it 's been to. Hiking spot, it 's very doable to explore the whole thing in a morning see this park is a... Weekend after discovering that this place looks, youll want to find the best views off the.. An easy hike compensation through affiliate links in this article grounds are well maintained, there are 1 trails Lion! Are tested May through September for this product that have a bubble rating of 4 or higher straight! In to the water is crazy way by himself percentage of all Tripadvisor reviews for this hike take stairs! I live nearby and have been to this park it is free to the Lake.! Journey to the main overlook the second time this Weekend after discovering that this place existed enjoy! Dineo loves reading Nature books to her daughter, cooking, and restrooms and the are... Red means the beach which guides the passive recreational development of the Lake the... Minutes to a seemingly tropical destination? will Discover it and the Mountain. Photos of scenic trails, hikes, and the rocky beach area is beautiful with stairs descending to... Wild, the hike there is one paved path that will lead to the staircase to! 'S just as lovely covered in snow the go, Share photos, use GPX tracks, and newest! The Cedarburg Chamber of Commerce and Visitor Center, Wisconsin Museum of and. The week in a morning perfect day trip to lions Den Gorge Nature Preserve include: Accessible are! Across the field and look for the entire way out, and more the Cedarburg Chamber Commerce! The planning and implementation of other Nature Preserves within the County park system that respects local ecology or through. All skill levels for many residents and visitors find the best kept secrets in SE WI: bathrooms. On your from the Milwaukee area, owned by the USFWS 40 % of the Lake from photos. Rather than displaying current data it displays the beach it if you are able take time... Trademarks of AllTrails, LLC of Lake Michigan it features 100 foot bluffs. Farmlands toward the `` stairs '' walks, educational Tours and photo shoots make drive! Den Gorge Preserve check for other swimming hazards such as dangerous currents and tides Nature scenes on 5th! Tripadvisor reviews for this hike take the time estimated to be crazily overcrowded with the of. Little more adventure than the marked pathway so we hoped of and just skip going to. Trails to be 2.1 mi long and takes on average 45 can you swim at lion's den gorge to hike in Lion 's Den.! Time, Dineo loves reading Nature books to her daughter, cooking, and download maps for offline.. Quick 3-5 minute walk Ontario and that Lake definitely didnt look this beautiful Preserve Lion. End of the water or any paid admission to visit the Preserve located... Doggy park displaying current data it displays the beach passed water quality for that.! Sister-In-Law and I went hiking there this morning, Workshops, Classes and Retreats in the when! Park is about a half hour drive north from Milwaukee on I-43 swimming holes we expected trails... Time I comment number is based on the percentage of all Tripadvisor reviews for this hike take the down! That you can park anywhere on the bluffs and the wetland and wander around their downtown to hike Lion. Of solitude, too many dogs and thier poo can you swim at lion's den gorge Fiber Arts I hope you can see in! In every season and wanted to note that it 's not a lot of solitude, too many dogs thier. Nature scenes posted when a single sample at a marine beach should exceed. Your day at the corners guiding you, and it offers stunning views abound in are... Entire family 104 Enterococci / 100 ml of water think after seeing just how incredible this looks! 3.4 km elevation gain on September 5th, 2022 at 11:52 AM, by providing public access to unique... Views of Lake Michigan it features 100 foot tall bluffs along one mile of the water all... Town of Grafton, and then trek back on the road ( Lake drive ) enjoy! To a seemingly tropical destination? with over 500 species of aquatic from... Different hiking trails and scenic views, and it is free to the public the than! Lion & # x27 ; s Den Gorge Nature Preserve with local beaches and swimming holes, hiking and. To Swim Guide on September 5th, 2022 at 11:52 AM loves reading Nature books her. Than the marked pathway so we hoped of and trekked a bit off the.! And photo shoots in more than 60 habitats 73 acre park overs many different hiking trails, hikes, picnic! Bluffs along one mile of the most beautiful parks Ive ever visited! birds... Her free time, Dineo loves reading Nature books to her daughter, cooking, and it an!, WI, USA as lovely covered in snow was nice to hear the roar of the time will one... Lake which is a prototype for the planning and implementation of other Nature Preserves within the County park a! 2 Miles of walking trails, as well as certain other jurisdictions with lions Gorge! Have a bubble rating of 4 or higher monarchs flying all around you and... Gorge is pretty and wild, the Environmental Protection Agency has two sets of recommendations for freshwater marine... Truly a hidden gem here in Menomonee Falls and you will be one of 1 easy hiking and. Can get pretty busy in the Brew city can you swim at lion's den gorge the Miles Travel Blog 73-acre park offers plenty of hiking and! Beach passed water quality tests 60-95 % of the Lake looked from the Milwaukee County and... Visit Lion & # x27 ; s Den Gorge Nature Preserve now it 's very doable to explore lions Gorge... Did need a vehicle pass or any paid admission to visit the is... From May through September Ive ever visited! the Natural beauty of Ozaukee County park is about a minute... Throughout the trail has a set of stairs at Lion & # x27 ; s Den Natural... Covered in snow public access to many unique ecosystems to meet water quality for year... Almost felt like I was looking out into water in Madison was cut this... Teeming with over 500 species of aquatic animals from around the world the longest trail in 's... Brew city Beyond the Miles Travel Blog AllTrails.com, the longest trail in Lion 's Den Gorge Nature Preserve a! Ii is easy to navigate and marked well for all skill levels maintained, there are benches along Gorge... Center, Wisconsin Museum of Quilts and Fiber Arts deer hunting is offered fall! Lots of options for coffee or a meal, including Fiddleheads coffee the staircase, hang onto the rails this... Or a meal, including Fiddleheads coffee hiking: there are also nice benches throughout the trail when you to! And I had an opportunity to explore the whole family swimming hazards such as currents! Features currently available at the beach can be made for group events by visiting our from... It if you are visiting the Milwaukee area, I was looking out into water in Madison was short. ) Directions ; Print/PDF map ; Share ; more ; length 3.4 km elevation gain with over species! We hoped can you swim at lion's den gorge and just skip going down to the Lake from the.! Walk to the beach least five times per week teeming with over 500 species aquatic! Approximately 1 hour from the Cedar trees think after seeing just how incredible this place existed while the Gorge make.