Devil's Lake Loop

The Devil's Lake Loop is rated as difficult for jogging. It features significant elevation changes, including steep ascents and descents, numerous stairs, and technical sections that require scrambling over boulders. It's best suited for experienced trail runners with good fitness levels.

The terrain is highly varied and demanding. You'll encounter sections of pavement and well-worn paths, but also sharp, stony staircases (like on the West Bluff Trail), steep singletrack, wide gravel paths, and a particularly technical boulder field on the CCC Trail. Expect uneven footing with rocks and roots, and potentially slippery boulders.

For jogging, this 8.3 km (5.25 mile) loop typically takes around 1 hour and 1 minute to complete, though this can vary significantly based on fitness level and trail conditions due to its challenging nature.

The loop offers spectacular scenery and unique geological formations. You'll pass by impressive landmarks such as Cleopatra's Needle, Balanced Rock, and numerous viewpoints like the West Bluff Trail viewpoint and Elephant Rock View of Spirit Lake, providing panoramic vistas of Devil's Lake and the ancient quartzite bluffs.

Parking is available within Devil's Lake State Park. The trail can be accessed from various points around the lake, including near the North Shore and South Shore areas. Due to its popularity, especially in summer, arriving early is recommended to secure a spot.

Yes, Devil's Lake State Park requires a vehicle admission sticker. You can purchase daily or annual passes. More information on fees and permits can be found on the official Wisconsin DNR website.

Dogs are generally allowed on most trails within Devil's Lake State Park, including this loop, but they must be kept on a leash no longer than 8 feet at all times. Always clean up after your pet.

Spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery, making them ideal for jogging. Summer can be very popular and crowded, while winter conditions can make the technical sections even more challenging with ice and snow. Always check seasonal trail conditions before heading out.

Yes, portions of this route overlap with the much longer Ice Age Trail, marked by yellow blazes. It also incorporates sections of the West Bluff Trail, East Bluff Woods Trail, Tumbled Rocks Trail, and East Bluff Trail, among others.

Be prepared for the West Bluff Trail, which includes a sharp, stony staircase with over 200 steps. The CCC Trail section is particularly technical, requiring some scrambling through a boulder field. These sections demand sure-footedness and sturdy footwear.

You'll be treated to diverse and dramatic landscapes. The trail offers sweeping views of Devil's Lake nestled between 500-foot quartzite bluffs, dense woods, meadows, and unique rock formations. The ancient bluffs themselves date back 1.6 billion years, adding a historical geological element to the stunning vistas.