Small But Spectacular, Fern Dell Gorge In Wisconsin Is Stunning Throughout The Seasons
By Daniella DiRienzo|Published September 18, 2020
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Daniella DiRienzo
Author
Though Daniella was born in New York and has lived in a couple of other states, Mississippi has been her home for more than 30 years. After graduating from the University of Southern Mississippi, Daniella began to hone her writing skills through various internships. In the years since, she’s had the privilege of having her articles appear in several publications, such as the Mississippi-based Parents & Kids Magazine. She’s also had the honor of interviewing actress Sela Ward for The Mississippi Arts and Entertainment Experience.
Some of Wisconsin’s best sites are off-limits in the winter season. Others, though, are at their best in winter – and that may very well be the case with Fern Dell Gorge. However, we said “may be,” and that’s because each season brings a new kind of beauty to the gorge. Take a look:
Designated a State Natural Area in 2003, Fern Dell Gorge is located in Mirror Lake State Park in Baraboo.
Lush and vibrant, the flora-filled gorge is undeniably gorgeous. Winter brings a whole new kind of beauty to the gorge – and it comes in the form of icicles.
An incredible natural phenomenon, the icy stalactites and stalagmites are created when water seeping through the soft, porous rock of the gorge freezes.
The end result is walls of ice up to 10’ high. Like a true winter wonderland, Fern Dell Gorge gives the iconic ice caves of the Apostle Islands a run for their money.
If you don’t feel comfortable exploring the gorge on your own, you’re in luck. Friends of Mirror Lake State Park offer a variety of guided tours each year.
Should you choose to visit the park alone, keep in mind that the gorge can be easily accessed via a parking area off Fern Dell Road, which is just west of the park’s main entrance.
For more information on Fern Dell Gorge, check out the Wisconsin DNR website here. Stay informed about upcoming guided hikes by visiting the Friends of Mirror Lake State Park website.
So, did you know about Fern Dell Gorge? Ever visited? If so, did you visit in the winter? Tell us in the comments section.
This isn’t the state’s only geologic wonder worth exploring. Read about another here.
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