7 Spectacular Scenic Wonders of Door County
If you’ve never been to Door County, this is your sign to check out the pretty peninsula. Known as the “Cape Cod of the Midwest” and beloved by travelers, it’s a place where days are spent by the water and nights end around the bonfire. It’s where to go for a barefoot, carefree sort of vacation, where you and your loved ones can wake up to nature – birds chirping, waves crashing – and go to sleep under the stars. It’s exactly the kind of place you want to be in the summer.
A highlight of any trip to Door County is exploring some of the spectacular wonders nature has forged into the area’s unique landscape. From sea caves to sand dunes, a trek around Door County is enough to spark anyone’s inner adventurer. So go ahead, travel off the beaten path and discover what’s out there – you’ll be glad you did!
1. Cave Point County Park - Sturgeon Bay
As a county park, Cave Point is sometimes overlooked by travelers visiting Door County. However, this unexpected natural gem along the eastern shore is absolutely worth the trip for its stunning views and opportunities for adventure.
Here, the wind and waves from Lake Michigan have worn away limestone cliffs to create underwater caves. On stormy days, the sound of waves crashing into the cliffs is thunderous, and the spray can shoot up to 20 feet in the air.
The view from the top of these cliffs on a half-mile hiking trail is breathtaking as you watch the water splash and swirl beneath you. For an up-close view of the unique sea caves, take a kayak tour from Cave Point Paddle and Pedal. The outfitter also offers bike tours of the park!
2. Door Bluff Headlands Park - Gills Rock
Discover the Door Bluff, also known as the Headlands, near Gills Rock on the very northern end of the Door County Peninsula.
The shoreline and vegetation of this county park are almost entirely untouched, with no trails or facilities. In fact, the only developed areas of its 155 acres are the road that leads to the interior and the lookout that hangs over the edge of the peninsula, providing an incredible view of Green Bay.
Although visitors and animals have created their own paths over time, hiking can be challenging around the hilly and unmarked terrain. So, bring your sense of adventure and experience this surprising natural wonder.
3. The Ridges Sanctuary - Baileys Harbor
Hike more than five miles of winding trails through the Ridges Sanctuary, recognized as a National Natural Landmark. It consists of 30 narrow, crescent-shaped sandy ridges, each of which took an average of 30 to 50 years to form.
These extraordinary forests and wetlands are home to more than 475 plant species, including 25 of the 40 species of orchids native to the state. In addition to all of these natural wonders, the historic Baileys Harbor Range Lights, a rare type of lighthouse, are found here and can be viewed from the Sanctuary's five miles of hiking trails.
4. Ellison Bluff State Natural Area - Ellison Bay
This park off the beaten path starts with a gorgeous drive down a three-quarter-mile road. The drive alone is worth the trip, but at the end, you'll also find some of the most beautiful blufftop views in the county.
Take the wooden observation deck over the edge of a sheer 100-foot limestone cliff, part of the Niagara Escarpment formed more than 400 million years ago. You can also look out from an enclosed catwalk for more unforgettable views.
5. Schoolhouse Beach - Washington Island
Schoolhouse is not your typical beach. Incidentally, it's one of only five of its kind in the world! Located in a protected cove along Washington Island, the shore is covered in millions of smooth limestone rocks. It's the perfect place for those who hate getting sand in their shoes!
This geological marvel is an excellent spot for swimmers and even has a diving raft. During the summer, the water in the cove can appear crystal clear. The town park is in a beautiful wooded setting and it's a great place to have a picnic with family and friends.
Take the Washington Island Ferry from Ellison Bay to get to this extraordinary island in the sun.
6. White Cliff Fen and Forest Preserve - Egg Harbor
Located just north of Egg Harbor, the White Cliff Nature Preserve is a nature-lovers paradise, featuring 100 acres of serene forests and wetlands.
The centerpiece of the preserve is a 30-acre fen, fed by mineral-rich groundwater. Take the 1.5-mile trail that loops through the wetlands and old-growth cedar forest and features many rare flowers. Because of the multitude of marsh milkweed, numerous dragonflies and butterflies are attracted to the area during late spring and summer.
This preserve is a hidden treasure with few visitors and is the perfect destination to explore if your group likes quiet hikes through beautiful surroundings.
7. Whitefish Dunes State Park - Sturgeon Bay
Adjacent to Cave Point County Park, Whitefish Dunes State Park preserves the largest and most significant sand dunes in Wisconsin. Check out "Old Baldy," which rises 93 feet above lake level and is the highest sand dune in the state. Stroll along the sandy lakefront or hike 14.5 miles of trails, including a picturesque boardwalk through the wetlands.
Be sure to visit the park's nature center, which is open year-round, to learn more about this stunning area.
Looking for more trip inspiration? Discover these spectacular Wonders of Wisconsin!
Ready for refreshing outdoor fun? Check trail conditions and know before you go with the Wisconsin Trail Report.
