Favorite Ways to Explore the Outdoors

Spring-y Things to Do in the Dells

In need of a fresh perspective? Long winters can do that to a person. Enter spring in Wisconsin Dells, with lots of ways to explore the fresh outdoors.

Have you ever had the experience of walking outside and realizing it not only looks and feels like spring, but it smells like spring too? You know, that sweet aroma that comes after a rainfall and as the earth is greening up and warming up. Follow your nose to Wisconsin Dells to explore these awesome spring outdoor offerings.

1. Visit a state park or two or three or four. This is an ideal time for biking and hiking at the area state parks – Devil’s Lake, Mirror Lake, Rocky Arbor, and Roche-A-Cri. You’ll have lots of breathing room as you traverse family-friendly nature trails that take you past towering pines and majestic stone outcroppings. There’s a good chance you’ll spot wildlife too. Insider tip: At Devil’s Lake, beginners will enjoy the Tumbled Rock Trail which stays low on the west side of the lake, while fitness enthusiasts will definitely want to tackle the Balanced Rock Trail or hike a segment of the National Ice Age Trail. Don’t forget: You’ll need to purchase a vehicle admission sticker from the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, available online or at the parks.
2. Walk the Scenic River Walk and take in some art. The Scenic River Walk is a must-do – pick up the trailhead right in downtown Dells. As you enter the paved walkway, you’ll come upon an outdoor art gallery with some incredible photos of the Wisconsin River and the people of Wisconsin Dells taken by local photographer Joseph Leute. Then enjoy the vistas of the river.
3. Stroll the downtown district. Keep those comfortable walking shoes on and stroll up and down Broadway. Pop in a restaurant or fudge shop, pick up a souvenir, and grab a selfie in front of the mural at the new Elm Street Plaza.
4. Go for the adrenaline rush. The sights and sounds of spring provide a nice endorphin boost. Layer on an adrenaline rush with some ziplining. At Vertical Illusions Zipline, Kayak & Rock Climbing Guided Adventures, marvel at the 100-mile views on their eco zipline tour, then follow that up with some rock climbing.  Back on land, there’s the new Adrenaline Rush Sports ATV and UTV guided tours.
5. Ride into the sunset, or sunrise as the case may be. Go horseback riding at Woodside Ranch, Red Ridge Ranch, or Canyon Creek Riding Stables. Or, alternatively, sit back and enjoy a horse-drawn carriage ride at Lost Canyon Tours.
6. Visit a farmstead. Country Bumpkin Farm Market & Lil’ Bumpkin Play Village opens in late April with seasonal goodies. Along with fresh produce, we also recommend picking up a fresh fruit pie from their bakery. The kids will clamor for the play village and petting farm here.
7. Enjoy animal attractions. You can convene with the cranes at the International Crane Foundation, opening May 1. Dote on the deer at Wisconsin Deer Park. Be a VIP with a behind-the-scenes tour at Timbavati Wildlife Park. Hear the roars during a weekend tour at Wisconsin Big Cat Rescue & Educational Center.
8. Shake off the rust at a golf course. Seven is the lucky number – that’s the number of golf courses in the area. Not a golfer? Not a problem, as anyone and everyone can enjoy a round of mini-golf at Timber Falls Adventure Park or Pirate’s Cove Adventure Golf.
9. Cast a line. Don’t miss the spring walleye bite on the Wisconsin River. Shore fishing is allowed in some spots or hook up the boat and bring it along. Take the family fishing at B & H Trout Fishing & Bait Shop. Or check out Redbeard Bowfishing guided fishing on the Wisconsin River.
10. Take a river cruise. You could say we saved the best for last and you wouldn’t be wrong. Take a scenic tour of the Wisconsin River aboard Dells Army Duck Tours, Original Wisconsin Ducks, or Dells Boat Tours. There is nothing quite like a cruise along this waterway with carved cliffs defining its path through Wisconsin Dells to inspire awe.