Pewit's Nest in Baraboo, WI

kid friendly attractions green county

★★★★☆ 4.1 (Reviews)

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Discover a scenic Wisconsin natural area with stunning trails and rock formations, rated 4.5 stars by visitors. Open daily, 6 AM–8 PM.
Local area information

Pewit's Nest is one of those spots that feels way more tucked-away than it actually is. If you’re picturing a long wilderness trek, don’t—it’s a quick stop just outside Baraboo, and you’ll probably hear other voices echoing through the gorge before you even see the water.

It’s a cool natural area, but it’s gotten more popular lately, so don’t expect total solitude. There’s not a ton of info out there, but the Wisconsin DNR site does update trail notices, so it’s smart to check for any closures or rules before you go.

Location & Contact

Address: County Rd W, Baraboo, WI 53913, USA

Phone: (608) 266-0394

Website: Official site

Parking: The lot is small and fills up fast, especially on weekends. If it’s full, you’re out of luck—street parking isn’t allowed, and they do ticket.

Accessibility: The main path is short but rocky, with some roots and uneven ground. Not really wheelchair-friendly, and strollers will have a tough time.

What's the Deal

Best for

Nature lovers, families with older kids, and anyone who wants a quick hike with a payoff

Time needed

About 45 minutes to 1.5 hours, depending on how long you hang out by the gorge

Budget range

Free, unless you count gas and snacks

Worth knowing

Swimming and cliff jumping are not allowed (and the DNR is serious about it)

What You're Actually Getting Into

The main draw at Pewit's Nest is the narrow sandstone gorge, with layered rock walls and a little waterfall when there’s been rain. You’ll hear water trickling over rocks, and the air gets noticeably cooler as you walk down to the creek. In spring and early summer, the trees are bright green and the moss is almost neon—pretty photogenic if you’re into that.

It’s a quick out-and-back trail, maybe a half-mile round trip, and it’s not hard, but you do need to watch your step. If you go on a sunny weekend, expect a steady stream of people (especially in the afternoon), and you’ll probably see rangers reminding folks not to swim. Early mornings or weekdays are a lot quieter. There aren’t any bathrooms or water fountains, so plan ahead.

Bottom Line

Worth visiting? If you’re nearby or passing through Baraboo, it’s definitely worth a stop for the scenery alone—just don’t expect a full-day adventure or much privacy. Go early or on a weekday, check the official DNR site for the latest updates, and be ready for a short but sweet walk.