DEVIL'S LAKE STATE PARK

It is the most visited park in Wisconsin, and you can see why when you stand with your feet in the lake, facing the 150 m high cliffs that drop steeply into its blue waters. In the summer, over sixty-six kilometres of trails are accessible, as well as boats for rent at the park office. It's a very popular place for fishermen. Climbing is also a popular activity. Originally, the Indians had given the lake another name because they thought it was populated by good spirits. Europeans do not see the same thing. Finding the lake a little unsettling, with its high cliffs, unique in the region, they named it Devil's Lake. In the past, there were luxurious hotels here, and even a railway that ran along the shore to drop off guests. In the winter, holidaymakers built a bobsled run down from the high hills to finish its run on the frozen lake. Given the height and slope of the hills, one can imagine that they might have had some frightening moments. Today, this state park remains perfectly preserved, although visitors are numerous all year round, especially in summer and autumn, when the Indian summer makes the leaves of the trees blush, which are clearly visible against the azure blue sky. The park has a visitor centre, where you will find maps and brochures, as well as a nature centre. Inside it is a small museum dedicated to the history, nature and geology of the park.