Hiking in High Cliff State Park along Lake Winnebago was a must during our Oshkosh, Wisconsin getaway. While researching the trip, I learned about the preserve's rock formations and knew I had to make a visit. On a sunny Saturday morning, my daughter and I embarked on the 35-minute drive from Oshkosh to High Cliff State Park leading to a day of exploring a true natural treasure.
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| Lake Winnebago calmly laps to shore at High Cliff State Park. |
With approximately 17 miles of trails, hiking at High Cliff State Park welcomes hikers to experience quite a range of natural wonders. Woodlands, lake views, rock formations, wetlands, and more cobble together an incredible nature tableau.
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| Rock ledges offer points where you can enjoy unique views. |
Exploring the Niagara Escarpment Along Lake Winnebago
We hiked a combination of the Indian Mound Trail and the Red Bird Trail. The Red Bird Trail presented opportunities to explore the rock formations of the Niagara Escarpment which is a long limestone cliff carved by glaciers moving across Wisconsin. Weaker shale layers within the formation have been eroding leaving behind the limestone while creating interesting rock assemblages with both smooth and jagged edges and differing block sizes.
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| A crack between rock formations in the Niagara Escarpment reveals trees on the other side. |
If you have been wondering if the Niagara Escarpment has a tie to Niagara Falls, it indeed does! The impressive set of waterfalls tumble over the escarpment. The escarpment starts at Lake Winnebago and extends through to Niagara Falls. The striking cliffs can also be seen throughout Door County offering bluff views, lakeside caves, and picturesque rock formations.
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| Enjoying a view looking up at a rock formation which is part of the Niagara Escarpment. |
Use caution when hiking in the rocky area. Some paths down to take in at level views of the escarpment are easier than others, so if one looks particularly dangerous move on to another. Make sure to wear proper hiking shoes and consider hiking sticks.
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| Grand view of Lake Winnebago just beyond the trees from a bluff at High Cliff State Park. |
From atop the cliff, adventurers can soak in a grand view of Lake Winnebago. As Wisconsin's largest inland lake, Lake Winnebago easily impresses. We soaked in many views during our weekend getaway.
Exploring the Indian Mound Trail
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| Learning about the Indian Mound Trail at High Cliff State Park. |
The Indian Mound Trail winds hikers through a sacred space full of Native American effigy mounds constructed approximately 1,500 years ago. Mound builders crafted mounds in warmer spring and summer months. They were likely created by nomadic Siouian tribes and either serve as burial mounds or ceremonial mounds. Of the 30 mounds originally at High Cliff State Park, only 9 remain. While walking through a sacred space, I urge you to be respectful. I hike through sacred areas with mounds silently to respect both the ancestors and their descendants. The mounds are protected by law.
High Point State Park also was the site of a limestone quarry and kilns from 1895-1956. The Lime Kiln Trail leads hikers to the location of lime kiln ruins.
One Last Lake Winnebago View at High Cliff State Park
After hiking, we parked near the marina and explored the shores of the lake for awhile. In addition to a place for boats to access the lake, there are wonderful spots for picnics with a view and places to access the beach. We enjoyed a bit of rest taking in one last Lake Winnebago view before heading back in the car towards Fond Du Lac.
**Please note that you will need a vehicle admission sticker or to pay for daily admission to visit.
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| Serene Lake Winnebago views at High Cliff State Park. |
Recreational Opportunities at High Cliff State Park
- Biking
- Boating, Canoeing, and Kayaking
- Camping
- Cross Country Skiing
- Fishing
- Hiking
- Horseback Riding
- Hunting
- Picnicking
- Snowmobiling
- Snowshoeing
- Swimming
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