Door County is one of the state’s most beautiful destinations, but on some busy weekends, it can seem like anything but a tranquil oasis. If you’re looking to escape the crowds and experience the full beauty of nature, you won’t have to go very far. Just head to The Ridges Sanctuary in Baileys Harbor, Wisconsin, where a gorgeous trail will take you past a historic lighthouse and over beautiful boardwalks on your way to see what Door County was like, long before tourists arrived.
The Ridges Sanctuary is a 1,600-acre nature preserve and land trust. It was founded in 1937, as the state’s first land trust. It’s located a short drive from the heart of Bailey’s Harbor and its listed as a National Natural Landmark, an Important Bird Area, and a Wisconsin State Natural Area. What a resume!
Alltrails / Laran Garg
The Ridges Loop is a visitor’s ticket to this magical place. The trail is not particularly challenging – it’s a loop trail that’s just 1.6 miles long and it takes about 30 minutes to complete.
Alltrails / Maggie Warren
The trail isn’t a place with mountain vistas or dramatic waterfalls, and that’s part of its charm. It travels through a cedar forest that’s teeming with birds and plant life.
Alltrails / Kelsey Stoner
The terrain is perfect for orchids and ferns, plants that flourished on this side of the peninsula long before settlers arrived. A survey of orchids once counted 28 different types in the preserve, including this Yellow Lady’s Slipper.
Alltrails / Maggie Warren
Long boardwalks help hikers make it through this marshy area and the loop passes a side trail to the Baileys Harbor Lower Range Light. The range lights were installed in the 1870s to help guide ships safely into the harbor.
Alltrails / Maggie Warren
There are many side trails of the loop that will allow you to explore more of this special place – one trail will take you to the beach.
Alltrails / Angelique Minet
The Ridges Trail is open year round and you’ll find it in The Ridges Sanctuary, 8166 WI-57, Baileys Harbor, Wisconsin, 54202. Please note: it can become a little icy in the winter, so use a little seasonal caution. Dogs are not permitted on the trail and there’s a small donation top access the preserve. Learn more on The Ridges Sanctuary website. If you love short and scenic hikes, here are some more Wisconsin hikes you’ll want to complete.
Alltrails / Laran Garg
Alltrails / Maggie Warren
Alltrails / Kelsey Stoner
Alltrails / Angelique Minet
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Address: The Ridges Sanctuary, 8166 WI-57, Baileys Harbor, WI 54202, USA
