Devil’s Lake State Park is one of the most popular state parks in Wisconsin and rightfully so. It has camping grounds, watercraft sports, and great hiking trails with beautiful views.

Today I will be sharing my experience on the East Bluff Trail.

First, about Devil’s Lake State Park. Because it’s part of the Wisconsin State Park there is a daily entrance fee if you don’t have the annual state park pass. I believe it is $8 as of January 2023. Make sure to check before going, sometimes there’s no attendant at the front.

Now about the East Bluff Trail.

The East Bluff Trail is a very popular trail. It is marked as moderate and is roughly 2.6 miles total roundtrip.

At the East Bluff trailhead, there is a parking lot right by it. There is also another parking lots within walking distance if there isn’t parking available. We went during a week day so the parking lots were pretty empty.

Once you enter the trailhead, you will eventually come to a fork. You can go left or right, either direction will get you to the same destination.

You can do the loop hike, meaning if you start on the right trail you can come back the left trail. Or vice versa. I know people also go and come back the same trail, so it’s really up to you.

We went up the left trail. It is mostly woods with the river running down on the left. It’s a beautiful view. As you continue up the trail, there are no stairs or rocks.

The trail incline will become steeper. If it’s wet, be careful because it can get slippery. This trail is wide though so there are plenty of space to walk.

You will know when you’ve reached the top. There will be a map there which will help you locate the sights you want to see.

At the top there are a few trails depending on what you want to see and do. Just make sure to stay and enjoy the overlook view too.

Some popular points to see: the Devil’s Doorway, the Balanced Rock and the Elephant (Bison) Rock.

To see the rocks:

When facing the lake, to your left is the trail to the Devil’s Doorway.

To the right will be a trail that takes you down to the Balanced Rock. Beware that the trail down to the Balanced Rock is very rocky. If it’s wet or rainy, take your time and watch your steps.

Head back or up the trail that parallels the lake, you’ll see the Elephant/Bison Rock.

When you’re done with enjoying the views, you can head back down the right trail (if you came up the left trail like we did). The right trail parallels the lake so you’ll get some amazing views here as well. Going down on this trail there are rocks and steps which is helpful.

That’s a quick recap of the East Bluff Trail at Devil’s Lake State Park. You can also hike the entire lake or drive to the West Bluff Trail for more beautiful rock formations and views.

If you have time, also rent a kayak and kayak the lake! It’s absolutely beautiful.

One thing to remember: take your time! Take your time hiking up. Take your time enjoying the view when you’re up there. Take your time hiking down as well.

The hike trail itself is not that long in total, but if you take your time, it can take up to a few hours.

I loved this hike. I now know why it’s so popular. It’s absolutely beautiful.

East Bluff Trail
roughly 2.6 miles
Easy/Moderate

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Devil’s Lake State Park - East Bluff Trail