Who doesn’t love a good beach day? The sun, the fresh air, the calming waves, the maddening crowd…oh wait. We could definitely do without that last one! If you hike the Lion’s Den Trail in Lion’s Den Gorge Nature Preserve in Wisconsin, you will reach a secluded beach that offers a hidden respite from the hordes of people traditionally found at the beach. The best part is, all it takes is an easy and quick hike to reach it!
First of all, the hike itself is absolutely beautiful. Wandering through a gorgeous forest always feels magical and sublime.
JAMIE PALOMO/Alltrails.com
The hike is considered easy, so the whole family can join. Or you can enjoy some solitude as you hike the trail alone.
Samantha Kirk/Alltrails.com
Dogs are allowed on the trail, if you want to bring your four-legged friend, but they must be leashed.
JAMIE PALOMO/Alltrails.com
The path will take you over several bridges and marshland.
Tim Evans/Alltrails.com You may even catch a glimpse of the water from the path!
Don’t forget to stop and snap some pictures of this truly photo-worthy hike along the way. These cute little purple flowers are adorable.
Olivia Mesich/Alltrails.com
Watch out for sssssnakes! Hi there, little guy.
Charles Feuerbach/Alltrails.com
Finally, you can descend down, down, down…
Shana Kuehn/Alltrails.com The long wooden staircase, until you reach….
The beach! Stunning views of Lake Michigan and a charming, pebbled beach await you upon your descent.
Joseph Guarino/Alltrails.com
Here you can enjoy the peace and quiet and be lulled by the breaking and cresting of the calming waves. You can collect rocks, explore the beach, or simply relax and bask in the tranquility.
ilde varis/Alltrails.com
We recommend taking this hike in the early morning hours if solitude is what you are after.
Sandra Vann/Alltrails.com
JAMIE PALOMO/Alltrails.com
Samantha Kirk/Alltrails.com
Tim Evans/Alltrails.com
You may even catch a glimpse of the water from the path!
Olivia Mesich/Alltrails.com
Charles Feuerbach/Alltrails.com
Shana Kuehn/Alltrails.com
The long wooden staircase, until you reach….
Joseph Guarino/Alltrails.com
ilde varis/Alltrails.com
Sandra Vann/Alltrails.com
Have you ever taken this hike? Let us know your experience! For more quick and simple hikes in Wisconsin, check out this list of hikes in Wisconsin that are all under 3 miles!
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Address: Lion’s Den Gorge Nature Preserve, 511 High Bluff Dr, Grafton, WI 53024, USA