Parfrey's Glen State Natural Area, Protected gorge in Baraboo Hills, Wisconsin, United States.
Description
Parfrey's Glen State Natural Area is a protected gorge carved through sandstone in the Baraboo Hills region of Wisconsin. The ravine spans 508 acres and features mixed forests with a seasonal stream flowing through the rock-lined valley.
History
The site became Wisconsin's first officially designated State Natural Area in 1952. This protected status marked an early step in the state's conservation efforts.
Culture
The glen bears the name of Robert Parfrey, an early settler whose family contributed to the agricultural development of the surrounding region.
Practical
Visitors hike a 1.6-mile round trip trail that follows the streambed in places where the boardwalk no longer exists. Wet rocks and slippery conditions are common, especially after rainfall.
Did you know?
The cold springfed stream supports rare northern monkshood flowers and adapted aquatic insects found nowhere else nearby. Few visitors realize they are walking through habitat for species of regional importance.
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Wisconsin contains numerous natural areas and historic sites away from typical tourist routes. Geological features include Cave of the Mounds with limestone formations, Parfrey's Glen with an 800-foot gorge, and Pewit's Nest State Natural Area with sandstone cliffs. The Apostle Islands Ice Caves...
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