Some of Wisconsin’s best sites are off-limits in the winter season. Others, though, are at their best in winter – and that may very well be the case with Fern Dell Gorge. However, we said “may be,” and that’s because each season brings a new kind of beauty to the gorge. Take a look:
Designated a State Natural Area in 2003, Fern Dell Gorge is located in Mirror Lake State Park in Baraboo.
Anton Perme/Google
Small but spectacular, the gorge, which is carved out of sandstone, is narrow and no more than a mile in length.
Joshua Mayer/Flickr
Its name, Fern Dell Gorge, came about because of the plethora of ferns that adorn the gorge and surrounding areas in the spring and summer.
Stephanie Cook/Google
Lush and vibrant, the flora-filled gorge is undeniably gorgeous. Winter brings a whole new kind of beauty to the gorge – and it comes in the form of icicles.
Aaron Carlson/Google
An incredible natural phenomenon, the icy stalactites and stalagmites are created when water seeping through the soft, porous rock of the gorge freezes.
Tim Gasser/Google
The end result is walls of ice up to 10’ high. Like a true winter wonderland, Fern Dell Gorge gives the iconic ice caves of the Apostle Islands a run for their money.
Tim Gasser/Google
The incredible ice floes that fill the gorge have attracted visitors from near and far.
Friends of Mirror Lake State Park/Facebook
If you don’t feel comfortable exploring the gorge on your own, you’re in luck. Friends of Mirror Lake State Park offer a variety of guided tours each year.
Friends of Mirror Lake State Park/Facebook
Should you choose to visit the park alone, keep in mind that the gorge can be easily accessed via a parking area off Fern Dell Road, which is just west of the park’s main entrance.
Friends of Mirror Lake State Park/Facebook
As stunning as it is, Fern Dell Gorge isn’t the only reason to visit Mirror Lake State Park.
Aaron Carlson/Google
The 2,200-acre park has plenty to offer, including hiking, skiing, swimming, camping, and more.
Tim Gasser/Google
Anton Perme/Google
Joshua Mayer/Flickr
Stephanie Cook/Google
Aaron Carlson/Google
Tim Gasser/Google
Friends of Mirror Lake State Park/Facebook
For more information on Fern Dell Gorge, check out the Wisconsin DNR website here. Stay informed about upcoming guided hikes by visiting the Friends of Mirror Lake State Park website.
So, did you know about Fern Dell Gorge? Ever visited? If so, did you visit in the winter? Tell us in the comments section.
This isn’t the state’s only geologic wonder worth exploring. Read about another here.
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Address: E10320 Fern Dell Rd, Baraboo, WI 53913, USA
