Parfrey’s Glen is one of Wisconsin’s most beloved natural areas, drawing visitors in droves during the warmer months. Nestled just east of Devil’s Lake State Park in the Driftless Region, it’s well known for its stunning rock formations, rich geological history, and lush summer greenery. However, when winter arrives, the crowds disappear, leaving behind a peaceful, snow-covered landscape that feels like a well-kept secret. For those willing to bundle up and explore, snowshoeing through the glen offers a one-of-a-kind adventure, revealing an icy wonderland of frozen waterfalls, quiet forest paths, and towering quartzite walls dusted with fresh snow.
Wisconsin’s First Natural Area
Parfrey’s Glen has a special place in Wisconsin’s conservation history. In 1952, it became the very first State Natural Area, a designation meant to preserve its unique geological and ecological features. The glen itself is a deep gorge carved into the sandstone and quartzite of the Baraboo Hills, one of the oldest rock formations in North America. Walking through it, you’ll notice layers of rock embedded with pebbles and boulders—evidence of ancient geological processes that shaped the landscape over millions of years.
The glen is also home to rare plant and animal species, some of which thrive only in the cool, moist conditions found within its narrow rock walls. This delicate ecosystem is part of why the area is so strictly protected, with rules in place to keep visitors on designated paths and prevent damage to the landscape.
Why Visit in Winter?
During peak season, Parfrey’s Glen is packed with hikers, nature lovers, and photographers. The small parking lot often overflows, and the trail can feel more like a highway than a secluded retreat. But in winter? It’s a completely different story.
The snow dampens sound, creating an almost eerie silence, broken only by the crunch of snowshoes and the occasional call of a winter bird. Without summer foliage blocking the view, the rock formations stand out more vividly, their details accentuated by the contrast of white snow and dark stone. Ice formations cling to the rock faces, creating beautiful frozen cascades that shimmer in the sunlight.
Best of all, you’ll likely have the entire place to yourself. There’s something magical about standing in the middle of the gorge, looking up at the towering cliffs, and realizing you’re completely alone in nature. It’s the kind of quiet that’s hard to find elsewhere, making winter the perfect time for reflection and appreciation of the glen’s beauty.Snowshoeing the Trail
The hike through Parfrey’s Glen is about 0.8 miles one way, making it a manageable trek even for those new to snowshoeing. The trail starts from the parking lot off County Highway DL and gently winds through the forest before entering the gorge. Snowshoes help provide traction on the packed snow, but trekking poles can also be useful for navigating uneven terrain.
As you move deeper into the glen, the walls begin to rise around you, creating a canyon-like effect. In some places, the trail narrows, requiring careful footing over icy patches or small frozen streams. The official path stops at a designated viewing area, but many adventurous hikers continue further into the gorge. However, going beyond the marked trail is discouraged, as it can damage the fragile ecosystem and pose safety risks in winter conditions.
What to Bring
Dressing for a winter hike at Parfrey’s Glen requires some preparation, especially when dealing with Wisconsin’s unpredictable weather. Here are some essentials:
- Snowshoes: The trail can be covered in deep snow, making snowshoes the best choice for stability and ease of movement.
- Layered Clothing: Temperatures can fluctuate, so wearing moisture-wicking base layers, insulating mid-layers, and a windproof outer shell will help keep you warm.
- Waterproof Boots: Even with snowshoes, good boots are necessary to keep your feet dry and warm.Trekking Poles: Helpful for balance, especially on icy or uneven sections of the trail.
- Hand and Toe Warmers: A great addition for extra warmth on especially cold days.
- Thermos with Hot Drink: Nothing beats sipping warm tea, coffee, or hot cocoa while surrounded by the peaceful winter landscape.
Respecting the Natural Area
Because Parfrey’s Glen is a protected area, there are some important rules to follow:
- Stay on the trail: Venturing off can cause damage to delicate plant life and contribute to erosion.
- No pets allowed: Unlike some other trails in the area, pets are not permitted here.
- Pack out all trash: Help keep the glen pristine for future visitors.
- Avoid disturbing ice formations: The icicles and frozen waterfalls are beautiful, but breaking them can disrupt the ecosystem.
More Winter Adventures Nearby
If you’re looking to extend your winter adventure, there are plenty of other great spots nearby. Devil’s Lake State Park offers a variety of snowshoeing and cross-country skiing trails, while nearby Pewit’s Nest State Natural Area features another stunning gorge with frozen waterfalls. Baraboo itself has cozy coffee shops and restaurants perfect for warming up after a day in the cold.
A Winter Experience Worth Having
Parfrey’s Glen is a place of beauty year-round, but there’s something undeniably special about experiencing it in winter. The quiet, the solitude, and the transformation of the landscape under a blanket of snow make it feel like a secret paradise hidden away from the world. If you’re looking for a peaceful winter escape in Wisconsin, snowshoeing through Parfrey’s Glen is an adventure well worth taking.
WeWisconsin Tip:
For the best experience, visit shortly after fresh snowfall. The untouched snow makes the trail even more magical, and the soft powder provides excellent traction for snowshoeing. If you’re unsure about conditions, check with the Wisconsin DNR before heading out.