Explore the Beauty of Nature in Wisconsin’s Peninsula Paradise
If you’re looking for some of the most scenic hiking in the Midwest, Door County should be at the top of your list. With over 300 miles of shoreline, five state parks, and dozens of hidden preserves, Door County offers trails for every type of hiker. From forested paths that wind through ancient bluffs to shoreline trails that hug the edge of Lake Michigan, Door County delivers a hiking experience that’s as varied as it is breathtaking.
Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or a week-long escape, spending time on these trails will give you a deeper connection to the natural beauty that makes Door County so beloved. Here are some of the best hiking trails in Door County, each offering a unique perspective on the region’s iconic landscape.
Eagle Trail in Peninsula State Park
No hiking list in Door County is complete without mentioning Eagle Trail. This rugged and dramatic trail winds through forests, along limestone cliffs, and past towering rock formations. Located in Peninsula State Park near Fish Creek, the trail stretches for just under two miles, but don’t let the distance fool you. The terrain is steep, rocky, and challenging in places, making it one of the more difficult hikes in the county. What makes it worth the effort is the reward: breathtaking views of Green Bay and the dramatic Niagara Escarpment.
Whitefish Dunes State Park
If you’re craving a mix of forest and shoreline, the trails at Whitefish Dunes State Park are a perfect match. The Red Trail takes hikers up Old Baldy, the tallest sand dune in Wisconsin. Along the way, you’ll encounter ancient dune formations, dense pine forests, and stretches of boardwalk that protect sensitive ecosystems. The park also connects to the adjacent Cave Point County Park, known for its striking limestone cliffs and turquoise waters. Combine the two parks into one hike and you’ll experience some of the most photogenic landscapes Door County has to offer.
Newport State Park
For those seeking solitude and quiet reflection, Newport State Park in Ellison Bay offers more than 30 miles of hiking trails. This designated wilderness park is Wisconsin’s only official dark-sky park, making it a favorite for stargazers and nature lovers alike. The Europe Bay Trail and the Lynd Point Trail are local favorites, offering peaceful loops through cedar forests and along remote stretches of shoreline. The park’s relative seclusion means you’ll often have the trail to yourself, with only birdsong and lapping waves to keep you company.
The Ridges Sanctuary in Baileys Harbor
The Ridges Sanctuary isn’t just one of the best hiking spots in Door County, it’s one of the most ecologically important natural areas in Wisconsin. This preserve features a network of trails and boardwalks that wind through boreal forest, wetlands, and ancient beach ridges formed by glacial activity. The sanctuary is home to more than 475 plant species, including 25 varieties of orchids. The Hidden Brook Boardwalk is an easy, accessible path that offers an immersive experience in this rare environment. For those interested in botany or birdwatching, this is a must-visit.
Potawatomi State Park
Located near Sturgeon Bay, Potawatomi State Park offers sweeping views of the bay and quiet trails through hardwood forest. The Tower Trail is a favorite, a three-mile loop that takes hikers past the now-closed observation tower and along scenic bluffs. The park is also the eastern terminus of the Ice Age National Scenic Trail, a thousand-mile route that traces the edge of the last glacier to cover Wisconsin. Even a short hike along this iconic trail gives you a sense of geological history that’s millions of years in the making.
Cave Point County Park
While it’s known for its stunning cliffs and crashing waves, Cave Point County Park also offers short but impactful hiking options. The trail here hugs the shoreline and connects to Whitefish Dunes, making it easy to explore both areas in one outing. The exposed limestone cliffs, underwater caves, and deep blue waters are mesmerizing. It’s a great spot for photographers and those who appreciate dramatic natural scenery.
Door Bluff Headlands County Park
This lesser-known gem is the highest point in Door County and offers a remote and rugged hiking experience. There are no marked trails, but footpaths lead through dense forest to dramatic cliffs overlooking Green Bay. Because it’s not as developed as other parks, Door Bluff offers a sense of wildness that’s hard to find elsewhere. Bring a map or GPS and be ready for a bit of an adventure, especially if you go off the beaten path.
Toft Point State Natural Area
Located just north of Baileys Harbor, Toft Point is a quiet, undeveloped property managed by the University of Wisconsin–Green Bay. The trail here winds through old-growth forest, past rocky shoreline, and through serene meadows. What makes this spot special is its untouched feel. It’s common to spot deer, foxes, and rare birds along the way. The trail is relatively flat and ideal for a peaceful afternoon walk.
Peninsula State Park’s Sunset Bike and Hike Trail
For a more relaxed hike, the Sunset Trail in Peninsula State Park offers over nine miles of multi-use path through forest and along shoreline. While it’s popular with cyclists, hikers also love the gentle terrain and changing views of the bay. In autumn, the trail bursts into a kaleidoscope of color, making it a fall favorite for leaf peepers. Because it’s paved in sections, it’s also one of the more accessible options for families or those with mobility needs.
Hiking in Door County is more than just a walk through nature. It’s a chance to slow down, breathe in fresh air, and reconnect with the earth in one of the most stunning parts of Wisconsin. Whether you’re trekking up dunes, wandering through cedar groves, or pausing to watch the sunset over the bay, every trail offers a different perspective on what makes this peninsula so magical.
For your next visit, lace up your boots, grab your water bottle, and set out on one of Door County’s unforgettable trails. The views are waiting, and the memories you make along the way will stay with you long after the hike ends.
