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

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, easier parking
Pewit's Nest State Natural Area
Best Time
Fewer crowds, easier parking

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.
"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!"
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:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Hidden Waterfall
Main gorge
A stunning waterfall tucked away, best viewed by wading into the cool creek.

Glacier-Carved Gorge
Main trail
Explore the dramatic, ancient gorge carved by glaciers, offering a cool escape on hot days.

Birdwatching Paradise
Throughout the area
A serene spot for nature lovers, with abundant birdlife to observe.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds & Access
Respect the Preserve
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
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:Bring Mosquito Repellent
Mosquitoes can be prevalent, especially near the water. Pack spray!
:bug:Stay on Marked Trails
Help preserve the natural beauty by sticking to designated paths.
:hiking_boot: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!
:athletic_shoe:Arrive Early for Parking
The small lot fills up fast on busy days. Aim for early morning or weekdays.
:car:Bring Mosquito Repellent
Mosquitoes can be prevalent, especially near the water. Pack spray!
:bug:Stay on Marked Trails
Help preserve the natural beauty by sticking to designated paths.
:hiking_boot:No Admission Fee
Enjoy this natural gem without any cost.
:moneywithwings:What Travellers Say
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
What People Dislike
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.
Yes, there is a small parking lot. However, it fills up quickly on weekends and during peak season, so arriving early is highly recommended.
While the waterfall might be frozen, Pewit's Nest can still be visited in winter. Be prepared for icy conditions and dress warmly.
The parking lot is quite small, so it may not be suitable for large RVs or trailers. It's best for standard passenger vehicles.
The nearest towns are Baraboo and Reedsburg, Wisconsin, offering amenities and additional attractions.
🎫 🎫 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
🎫 🏞️ 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.
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.
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.
Restroom facilities are generally not available at Pewit's Nest State Natural Area. Plan accordingly.
It's a great spot for birdwatching, with many species present. You might also see small mammals and insects.
📸 📸 Photography
The gorge itself offers dramatic shots, especially with the waterfall. The surrounding natural beauty and birdlife also provide great photographic opportunities.
Yes, but you'll likely need to get into the water to get the best angles. Be careful with your equipment if you do.
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.
Drone usage is typically restricted in state natural areas to protect wildlife and visitor experience. Check with the Wisconsin DNR for specific regulations.
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.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Nature Enthusiasts & Hikers
📸 Photographers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Gorge and Waterfall
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. 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!
Visitor Etiquette and Preservation
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. 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.
Best Times for Photography
If you plan to photograph the waterfall, be prepared to get wet. Wading into the creek is often necessary for the most compelling shots. 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. Remember that while the natural beauty is the main draw, respecting the environment and other visitors should always be a priority.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit