Lion's Den Gorge Nature Preserve

Lion's Den Gorge Nature Preserve is a protected area along the Lake Michigan shoreline in Wisconsin featuring dense cedar forests, wetland habitat, and a dramatic gorge that cuts down to the water. The property combines multiple parcels of land and protects diverse ecosystems within a relatively compact area.

The land was acquired by Ozaukee County in 2002 from private owners and merged with an existing waterfowl production area managed by the US Fish and Wildlife Service. This combination created a more cohesive protected landscape along the Lake Michigan shoreline.

The preserve earned its name after a lion from Milwaukee County Zoo found temporary shelter in this location during its escape.

Access to the preserve is via gravel and boardwalk trails that wind through different habitats down to the shoreline. Wear sturdy footwear since paths can be uneven and slopes are steep in some sections.

The gorge takes its name from a lion that escaped the Milwaukee County Zoo and temporarily sheltered here, an event that became local lore. Today the preserve is known more for its natural features than for this quirky piece of regional history.

Location: Wisconsin

Inception: 2002

GPS coordinates: 43.33880,-87.88640

Latest update: December 12, 2025 17:48