Nestled between Lake Michigan and Green Bay, Door County is a treasure trove of rugged cliffs, sandy beaches, and forested trails that feel straight out of a nature documentary. Hiking in Door County takes you through a variety of scenic views — dramatic limestone bluffs, mossy woods, or secret beaches.

With five stunning state parks and over 300 miles of shoreline, this peninsula serves up some of the best hiking in Wisconsin — and, dare we say, probably the entire Midwest. Our guide walks you through the best hiking trails in Door County.

Why Hikers Love Door County

The biggest draw of hiking in Door County is the diverse landscapes packed into this relatively small area. Dramatic cliffs overlooking the lake, forests of hardwood and evergreen trees, rock beaches, winding trails…you name it, Door County probably has it.

Want to take your best friend with you? The great news is that all trails except those at the Ridges Sanctuary allow dogs. Just keep them leashed and clean up after them. You’ll also need to find dog friendly hotels in Door County, Wisconsin.

Door County’s four-season appeal means hiking opportunities abound whether you’re surrounded by spring blossoms, summer greenery, autumn foliage, or snow-dusted forests in winter. And since many of the trails are located within protected parks, you can enjoy pristine nature that’s well-maintained and marked.

Here are some must-visit hiking destinations to add to your Door County itinerary:

Peninsula State Park: The Crown Jewel of Door County

No list of Door County hikes would be complete without Peninsula State Park, the county’s most popular and expansive park. Covering over 3,700 acres, this park offers several hiking trails that range from easy to moderate difficulty.

Best Hiking Trails in Peninsula State Park:

Eagle Trail (2-mile loop): This is one of the park’s most famous trails, featuring limestone bluffs that rise 150 feet above Green Bay. It’s a bit rugged with steep sections, but hikers are rewarded with jaw-dropping views and a sense of adventure.
Nicolet Bay Trail (2 miles one way): This is a more relaxed hike, winding through forests and lakeshore areas — perfect for families and casual walkers.

Beyond its natural beauty, the park offers sites to learn about the region’s history. The park has a lighthouse, campgrounds, and plenty of scenic overlooks to complete your day outdoors. This park will always have a special place in our hearts for its variety of activities and proximity to our resort.

Whitefish Dunes State Park

Just south of Cave Point, Whitefish Dunes State Park offers a different kind of hiking experience. As the name suggests, this park features impressive sand dunes alongside forested trails and a beautiful sandy beach.

Trails worth exploring include:

Brachiopod Trail (1.5-mile loop): This educational trail includes signs about the area’s geological history and offers access to scenic overlooks.
Red Trail (2.8-mile loop): This longer trail takes you through dense forests and dunes, providing a quiet, peaceful hike.

After a hike, many visitors like to relax on the beach, making it a great combination destination for hiking and swimming in warmer months.

Cave Point County Park

If you’ve ever seen photos of Door County’s dramatic rocky coastline, chances are they were taken at Cave Point County Park. While the park itself is relatively small, its shoreline trail is one of the most memorable in the area.

Picture a Door County hiking trail that takes you through wave-carved limestone cliffs and underwater caves. On windy days, hikers can watch waves crash dramatically against the rocks, sending sprays of water high into the air.

Short hiking trails loop around the park, and you can easily connect to the Whitefish Dunes State Park trails for a longer adventure. It’s a must-see spot for photographers, nature lovers, and anyone who wants to feel the raw power of Lake Michigan up close.

Newport State Park

Avid hikers or those seeking solitude should head to Newport State Park, Wisconsin’s only designated wilderness park. Unlike the other more developed parks on our list, Newport offers miles of quiet trails where you might not encounter another soul.

Our favorite hikes at this park include:

Europe Bay Trail (7-mile loop): A longer trail that takes you through remote forest, wetlands, and along the stunning shoreline.
Rowleys Bay Trail (2.5-mile loop): A moderate trail with lake views and access to beaches.

Bonus: Newport is also a Dark Sky Park, so if you stay until nightfall, you can enjoy some of the best stargazing in the Midwest.

The Ridges Sanctuary

For those interested in ecology and rare plants, The Ridges Sanctuary in Baileys Harbor is fun visit. This nature preserve has easy boardwalk trails winding through ridge-and-swale ecosystems unique to the Great Lakes region. Spring and summer bring a riot of wildflowers and orchids and are the recommended seasons to visit.

Tips for Hiking in Door County

Wear sturdy shoes: Even short hikes can involve rocky or uneven terrain.
Bring water and snacks, especially in summer, when the weather here is hot and humid.
Respect nature: Stay on marked trails to protect the fragile ecosystems. If you bring your dog, clean up after them.
Visit in different seasons: Every season offers a different experience. The fall colors are spectacular, and winter hikes offer stark, breathtaking views.

Experience Door County

Hiking in Door County is more than just a walk in the woods (though you do walk in the woods on some hikes) — it’s an experience that takes you to towering cliffs, ancient forests, quiet beaches, and wildflower meadows. Whether you’re here for a weekend or an extended stay, lacing up your hiking boots is one of the best ways to experience the magic that keeps visitors coming back year after year.

So pack your backpack, grab your camera, and get ready to explore one of Wisconsin’s most beautiful regions — one step at a time. Book your stay today!

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