While Wisconsin has scores of parks and millions of acres of public land, some are victims of their one popularity. Some of the busiest parks draw huge crowds, making the trails less than tranquil. If you need to get away, consider a place you might not have heard of – the Hemlock Draw State Natural Area. This Wisconsin natural area in North Freedom is an oasis that beckons nature lovers. Here’s why.
Hemlock Draw is a narrow sandstone gorge along Honey Creek. It’s in Sauk County, and it’s an easy drive from the more popular Devil’s Lake State Park.
The Hemlock Draw State Natural Area is managed by the Wisconsin Chapter of The Nature Conservancy - it was designated an official natural area in 2007. The natural area showcases the rich biodiversity of the region, making it a haven for both common and rare plant and animal species.
The creek and gorge are lined with stands of hemlock and yellow birch trees, their branches forming a canopy that shields the forest floor from the sun's direct rays.
There’s a lot of beauty to take in here. From its meandering creek and unique rock formations to its lush forests and vibrant birdlife, this natural area offers a glimpse into the web of life that defines the region.
Hemlock Draw plays a vital role in the lives of many bird species, offering essential breeding and migratory habitats. Over 40 species of breeding birds, including the barred owl, ruffed grouse, and wood thrush, utilize the area.
The natural area doesn't have a ton of amenities, but there’s a pleasant 2.4 mile out and back trail that you can take to explore the terrain. Enjoy every step of your hike!
Sauk County is an awesome place for hiking – I’m still recovering from my last challenging hike here! You can download interactive maps of Hemlock Draw’s trails for offline use on AllTrails+. If you’re up for discovering even more awesome trails and parks, here’s where to find them.
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