Big Ravine Preserve and Iron Bridge
Discover a hidden gem with a charming Iron Bridge and a serene waterfall, offering a peaceful escape in Bayfield's natural beauty.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Crisp air, fewer crowds
Big Ravine Preserve and Iron Bridge
Best Time
Crisp air, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover a hidden gem with a charming Iron Bridge and a serene waterfall, offering a peaceful escape in Bayfield's natural beauty.
"Fenominal hiking with many great views, very nice overall how secluded you are all while being in Bayfield WI."
🎯 Trailhead Treasure Hunt
Look for the unmarked road near mailboxes off Rice; it's behind cottages.
🥾 Ravine Descent
Rim trail is easy, but ravine is moderate. Watch your step!
Quick Facts
Rating
4.6 · 56 reviews
Type
Hiking Area
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Iron Bridge
Bottom of the ravine
Cross this iconic bridge for stunning views of the ravine and creek below. A must-see for any visitor!
Hidden Waterfall
Bottom of the ravine
Discover a serene waterfall cascading into the creek, offering a peaceful and picturesque spot.
Scenic Rim Trail
Top of the ravine
An easy, well-marked walk through the woods with lovely views, perfect for a relaxed stroll.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Trailhead Access: A Hidden Gem
Navigating the Ravine
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Trailhead Treasure Hunt
Look for the unmarked road near mailboxes off Rice; it's behind cottages.
🥾 Ravine Descent
Rim trail is easy, but ravine is moderate. Watch your step!
🐻 Wildlife Watch
Be aware of bears, coyotes, and foxes.
🐶 Dog-Friendly Fun
Leashed dogs are welcome and will love the trails!
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Trailhead Treasure Hunt
Look for the unmarked road near mailboxes off Rice; it's behind cottages.
🥾 Ravine Descent
Rim trail is easy, but ravine is moderate. Watch your step!
🐻 Wildlife Watch
Be aware of bears, coyotes, and foxes.
🐶 Dog-Friendly Fun
Leashed dogs are welcome and will love the trails!
📍 Soccer Field Parking
Park at the soccer field on top of the hill for easy access.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the secluded beauty of Big Ravine Preserve, particularly the charming Iron Bridge and the serene waterfall. While the trailhead access can be a bit of an adventure, the well-marked trails and peaceful riverside paths make it a rewarding experience for hikers and their dogs. Some find the ravine descent moderately challenging, but the overall consensus is overwhelmingly positive for this hidden Bayfield gem.
"The road to this trailhead is off rice on the downhill side of the mailboxes. It does not look like a road. It looks like a driveway, go up it, behind the cottages. Thru the woods. Be careful, it needs maintenance. When you get to the top it looks like a government building and .... a buried dome. Go behind the dome. Thats where the trail marker/map are. Good Luck. Watch put for bears, coyotes and fox."
A L E X Greb
"My Wife and I came here 2-18-24. Snow on the ground, air temp 34 degrees, stream mostly frozen over. We came to hike the Big Ravine, Gil Larson Nature Trail/ Iron Bridge area. We hiked for roughly 2.5 hours, had our 2 medium size dogs with us. The hiking was fenominal with many great views, very nice overall how secluded you are all while being in Bayfield WI. We will certainly be back. We loved it, our dogs loved it."
Sid S
"This was a very short and scenic trail
Drive up to the Soccer field upon top of the hill. If you went to the graveyard, you went too far. Trail is very well marked."
chris kemper
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The trailhead is discreetly located off Rice, near mailboxes. Look for an unmarked road that goes uphill behind cottages. It's not obvious, so be prepared for a bit of an adventure to find it.
Many visitors recommend parking at the soccer field located at the top of the hill. This provides good access to the trails.
The road requires maintenance and can be a bit rough. Drive carefully, especially if you're in a lower-clearance vehicle.
GPS might be unreliable due to the unmarked nature of the access road. Rely on visual cues and the descriptions from other visitors.
Yes, it's described as a great little hike tucked behind the Apostle Islands Visitor Center.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Big Ravine Preserve and Iron Bridge is a natural area and does not require tickets for entry. It's free to explore.
As a natural preserve, there are no set operating hours. It's generally accessible during daylight hours.
There is no entrance fee for the Iron Bridge trail or any part of the Big Ravine Preserve.
Yes, visitors have enjoyed hiking here in the winter with snow on the ground. Be prepared for icy conditions.
No permits are required for general hiking within the Big Ravine Preserve.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The rim trail is an easy walk through woods. Descending into the ravine offers more moderate terrain along the creek bed.
Yes, visitors have reported a beautiful waterfall and flowing creek at the bottom of the ravine.
One visitor mentioned the trail is very well marked, especially from the soccer field parking.
Be cautious as visitors have noted the presence of bears, coyotes, and foxes in the area.
The trail down to the ravine can be moderate, so those with mobility issues might find it challenging. The rim trail is easier.
📸 📸 Photography
The Iron Bridge, the waterfall, and the creek bed offer picturesque scenes. The rim trail also provides nice woodland views.
Absolutely! The combination of ravine, creek, waterfall, and woodland makes it a great spot for nature photographers.
Mornings and late afternoons often provide softer light, ideal for capturing the beauty of the ravine and its features.
There are no specific regulations mentioned regarding drones, but it's always best to check local rules and be respectful of other visitors and wildlife.
The hidden nature of the trailhead and the secluded ravine create a sense of discovery that can translate into unique photos. +1
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit