Pewit's Nest State Natural Area - brown dried plant in tilt shift lens
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Pewit's Nest State Natural Area

4.5
·1k reviews·Baraboo, United States

Discover Pewit's Nest State Natural Area, a glacier-carved gorge with a hidden waterfall, perfect for a short, refreshing hike.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, easier parking

CrowdLow
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Pewit's Nest State Natural Area - brown dried plant in tilt shift lens

Pewit's Nest State Natural Area

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, easier parking

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Discover Pewit's Nest State Natural Area, a glacier-carved gorge with a hidden waterfall, perfect for a short, refreshing hike.

4.5
(1k reviews)

"So pretty but access to the waterfall was closed off. Only way to see it was to get in the water and swim your way to it!"

Vertical photo
TIP

Wade for the Waterfall

To see the main waterfall, you'll need to get in the water. It's chilly but worth it! :athletic_shoe:

Arrive Early for Parking

The small lot fills up fast on busy days. Aim for early morning or weekdays. :car:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Hidden Waterfall

The Hidden Waterfall

Main gorge

A stunning waterfall tucked away, best viewed by wading into the cool creek.

TikTok
Glacier-Carved Gorge

Glacier-Carved Gorge

Main trail

Explore the dramatic, ancient gorge carved by glaciers, offering a cool escape on hot days.

Instagram
Birdwatching Paradise

Birdwatching Paradise

Throughout the area

A serene spot for nature lovers, with abundant birdlife to observe.

Reddit
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Planning Your Visit

Beat the Crowds & Access

Pewit's Nest State Natural Area has a small parking lot that fills quickly on nice days. Arrive early or on weekdays to secure a spot. Access to the main waterfall requires wading into the creek, so be prepared for chilly water! Reddit

Respect the Preserve

While beautiful, Pewit's Nest is a natural preserve. Stick to trails, avoid bringing excessive gear like chairs and coolers, and be mindful of others enjoying the serenity. Alcohol is not permitted. Reddit

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, easier parking
Crowd
Low
When
Summer afternoons
Why
Cooler temps in the gorge
Crowd
Medium
When
Fall colors
Why
Scenic beauty and mild weather
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Pewit’s Nest State Natural Area
john.e.anderson
38 likes • 1.4K views

Wade for the Waterfall

To see the main waterfall, you'll need to get in the water. It's chilly but worth it! Reddit :athletic_shoe:

Arrive Early for Parking

The small lot fills up fast on busy days. Aim for early morning or weekdays. Reddit :car:

Fun was had at Pewits Nest State Natural Area yesterday! #getoutdoors #wisconsin #summer #naturalareas #hiking #wisconsinsummer
jasonnoble3
27 likes • 460 views
The waterfall is hiding under ice at Pewit’s Nest State Natural Area. You can’t see it but the sound gives it away! #wisconsin #explorewisconsin #Saukcounty #explorewisconsinably #pewitsneststatenaturalarea #pewitsnest #baraboowisconsin #outwigo #travelwisconsin #wisconsintourism #wisco #bestofthebadgerstate #travelwi #travel #nature
skilletcreek
91 likes • 1.1K views

Bring Mosquito Repellent

Mosquitoes can be prevalent, especially near the water. Pack spray! Reddit :bug:

Stay on Marked Trails

Help preserve the natural beauty by sticking to designated paths. Reddit :hiking_boot:

reddit.com

This One-Mile Trail In Wisconsin Leads To Hidden Waterfalls And A Waterfall Swimming Hole

Tips

from all over the internet

Wade for the Waterfall

To see the main waterfall, you'll need to get in the water. It's chilly but worth it! Reddit :athletic_shoe:

Arrive Early for Parking

The small lot fills up fast on busy days. Aim for early morning or weekdays. Reddit :car:

Bring Mosquito Repellent

Mosquitoes can be prevalent, especially near the water. Pack spray! Reddit :bug:

Stay on Marked Trails

Help preserve the natural beauty by sticking to designated paths. Reddit :hiking_boot:

No Admission Fee

Enjoy this natural gem without any cost. Reddit :moneywithwings:

What Travellers Say

4.5
(1k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Pewit's Nest State Natural Area is praised for its beautiful, cool gorge and unique waterfall accessible by wading. Visitors appreciate the short, scenic hike and the lack of an admission fee. However, some are disappointed by restricted access to the gorge rim and the need to enter the water for the best waterfall views. The small parking lot also tends to fill up quickly.

"An out and back hike clocking in at less than 1 mile total. Veer right at the fork to see the main waterfall. You need to wade into the water a little to get a glimpse. If you're daring, you can swim right up to it but its a bit chilly.

The upper trail doesn't award great views - maybe they're better before the vegetation fills in. You used to be able to walk right along the gorge/ravine but now it's all fenced off to combat erosion.

There's a small parking lot which fills up on nice days. No permit required."

Postcard Narrative Family Travel

"So pretty but access to the waterfall was closed off. Only way to see it was to get in the water and swim your way to it! Still a beautiful place!"

Freddy Perez

"It's a short walk to a beautiful area. It was a hot day and it was about 10 to 15 degrees cooler walking to the nest. The water was a little cold but not bad."

Meranda Pahl

What People Like

Beautiful cool gorge
Unique waterfall access
Short scenic hike

What People Dislike

Fenced-off gorge rim
Need to wade for falls
Small parking lot

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Pewit's Nest State Natural Area is located in Sauk County, Wisconsin. It's accessible by car, with a small parking lot available on-site. Many visitors combine a trip here with nearby Devil's Lake State Park. Reddit

Yes, there is a small parking lot. However, it fills up quickly on weekends and during peak season, so arriving early is highly recommended. Reddit

While the waterfall might be frozen, Pewit's Nest can still be visited in winter. Be prepared for icy conditions and dress warmly. TikTok

The parking lot is quite small, so it may not be suitable for large RVs or trailers. It's best for standard passenger vehicles. Reddit

The nearest towns are Baraboo and Reedsburg, Wisconsin, offering amenities and additional attractions. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, there is no admission fee or permit required to visit Pewit's Nest State Natural Area. It's a free public access area. Reddit

Pewit's Nest is generally open from dawn to dusk, like most state natural areas. It's an outdoor preserve, so hours are dictated by daylight. Reddit

While not officially designated for swimming, visitors often wade into the creek to get closer to the waterfall. Be aware the water can be cold. Reddit

Typically, dogs are allowed in Wisconsin State Natural Areas but must be kept on a leash at all times. Always check local regulations before visiting. Reddit

The main trails are natural and can be uneven. Access to the gorge and waterfall requires wading, which may be challenging for those with mobility issues. Reddit

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

The primary draw is the beautiful, glacier-carved gorge and its hidden waterfall. The short hike offers a refreshing experience, especially on hot days. TikTokReddit

The hike is very short, typically less than a mile round trip. It's an out-and-back trail, making it accessible for most visitors. Reddit

Wear comfortable walking shoes or hiking boots. If you plan to get close to the waterfall, water shoes or sandals that can get wet are a good idea. Reddit

Restroom facilities are generally not available at Pewit's Nest State Natural Area. Plan accordingly. Reddit

It's a great spot for birdwatching, with many species present. You might also see small mammals and insects. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The gorge itself offers dramatic shots, especially with the waterfall. The surrounding natural beauty and birdlife also provide great photographic opportunities. Instagram+1

Yes, but you'll likely need to get into the water to get the best angles. Be careful with your equipment if you do. Reddit

Morning light can be beautiful in the gorge, but be mindful of the small parking lot. Midday can be harsh, but the shade in the gorge helps. Instagram

Drone usage is typically restricted in state natural areas to protect wildlife and visitor experience. Check with the Wisconsin DNR for specific regulations. Reddit

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the gorge. If you're interested in wildlife, a telephoto lens would be beneficial. A waterproof bag for your gear is wise if you plan to get near the water. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Pewit's Nest State Natural Area offers a short, engaging hike that's manageable for most families. The allure of the waterfall and the opportunity to wade in the creek can be a big hit with children. Reddit However, parents should be aware that the access to the waterfall involves getting into the water, which can be cold and requires supervision. Reddit Ensure kids wear appropriate footwear that can get wet and are prepared for the cooler temperatures. Bringing a change of clothes is also a good idea. Remember to pack mosquito repellent, as they can be present, especially near the water. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Nature Enthusiasts & Hikers

For those who appreciate natural beauty and a short, scenic walk, Pewit's Nest is a delightful stop. The glacier-carved gorge provides a unique geological feature to explore. Instagram While the hike itself is brief, the opportunity to get close to the waterfall by wading into the creek adds an element of adventure. Reddit Birdwatchers will also find this area rewarding, with various species to observe. Reddit Remember to wear sturdy shoes and be prepared for the possibility of getting wet if you want the best waterfall views.

📸 Photographers

Pewit's Nest State Natural Area presents a picturesque setting for photographers. The dramatic gorge and the hidden waterfall are prime subjects. Instagram+1 Capturing the waterfall often requires getting into the creek, so waterproof camera gear or a protective bag is highly recommended. Reddit Consider visiting during the morning for softer light, but be mindful of parking availability. Reddit A wide-angle lens will help showcase the grandeur of the gorge, while a telephoto lens can be useful for any wildlife you might spot. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring the Gorge and Waterfall

The heart of Pewit's Nest State Natural Area lies in its stunning glacier-carved gorge. This natural wonder offers a refreshing microclimate, making it a cooler spot even on hot summer days. Instagram The main attraction is a picturesque waterfall, but accessing it requires a bit of adventure. Visitors often need to wade into the creek, which can be quite chilly, to get a good view or even swim right up to it. Reddit While the upper trails offer some views, the most rewarding experience is down by the water. Reddit

It's important to note that access along the gorge rim has been restricted with fencing to prevent erosion, a measure put in place to protect the delicate ecosystem. Reddit This means the best way to truly appreciate the waterfall is by embracing the water. Be prepared for this unique approach to viewing the falls, and consider it part of the adventure! TikTok

Visitor Etiquette and Preservation

Pewit's Nest State Natural Area is a cherished natural preserve, and visitors are encouraged to act accordingly. While it's a popular spot for recreation, it's crucial to remember its status as a natural area. Reddit This means sticking to marked trails to avoid damaging vegetation and respecting the quiet serenity of the surroundings. Reddit

Some visitors have noted seeing people treating the area like a public beach, bringing in chairs, coolers, and consuming alcohol. This behavior is discouraged and often prohibited in natural preserves. Reddit The goal is to maintain the natural beauty and peaceful atmosphere for everyone to enjoy. By being mindful of these guidelines, you help ensure Pewit's Nest remains a beautiful destination for years to come. Reddit

Best Times for Photography

Capturing the beauty of Pewit's Nest State Natural Area can be a rewarding experience for photographers. The dramatic gorge and hidden waterfall offer unique perspectives. Instagram+1 For the best light, consider visiting in the morning when the sun can cast a beautiful glow into the gorge, though be aware that parking can be challenging during peak times. Reddit

If you plan to photograph the waterfall, be prepared to get wet. Wading into the creek is often necessary for the most compelling shots. Reddit This means protecting your camera gear is essential. A wide-angle lens is ideal for capturing the scale of the gorge, while a telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife. Instagram Remember that while the natural beauty is the main draw, respecting the environment and other visitors should always be a priority.

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