April 1, 1999
Springtime Fun in Wisconsin Dells
After a long winter, you might be craving a fresh perspective. Wisconsin Dells in spring is the perfect time to shake off the cold and discover new and exciting ways to adventure. The first hints of spring mean it’s time to get out and enjoy all the amazing outdoor activities in Wisconsin Dells.
Hiking Trails Galore
With four state parks in the area, there are hiking trails for beginners and experienced hikers alike. Try one or all to get back into nature.
- At Devil’s Lake State Park, beginners will enjoy the Tumbled Rock Trail, which stays low on the west side of the lake. More experienced hikers will enjoy the steep Balanced Rock Trail that has spectacular views of Devil’s Lake and the famous Balanced Rock formation. For fans of the Ice Age Trail, Devil’s Lake State Park offers over 13 miles to wander.
- Mirror Lake State Park offers over 19 miles of hiking across 14 trails. Enjoy a short hike, like Echo Rock Trail, or enjoy a jaunt on the Turtleville Trail, open year-round.
- Just 1.5 miles away from downtown Wisconsin Dells, Rocky Arbor State Park provides a perfect escape to nature after a busy day. Enjoy the 1.4-mile loop that takes you through the park, and be sure to watch out for wildlife!
Outdoor Thrills
With the sights and sounds of spring bringing a whole new boost of endorphins, add a rush of adrenaline with these fun-filled activities.
- At Vertical Illusions Zipline, Kayak & Rock Climbing Guided Adventures, marvel at the 100-mile views on their eco zipline tour, then follow that up with some rock climbing at Chimney Rock Park.
- Bigfoot Zipline Tours offers 2.5 hours of scenic views of Wisconsin Dells on seven different ziplines. Not into ziplining? Located right next door is Bigfoot Ropes Course, which includes eight different elements, culminating in a helicopter that sits on top!
- Bigfoot Tubing is the perfect adrenaline rush, reaching speeds of up to 35 mph. This attraction is open year-round, no snow required, and a destination for fun in every season.
- Travel through town with Rake Motorsports, where you can rent a Polaris Slingshot for a few hours or a whole day. These Slingshots are three-wheeled, two-seated, open-air vehicles that combine the thrill of a motorcycle with the safety of an automobile.
- Enjoy the thrill of competition with a round of golf or mini-golf at one of our many courses in the area.
Animal Adventures
Enjoy animal attractions that get you up close and personal with all the furry, feathered, and fluffy friends in the Wisconsin Dells area.
- Wisconsin Deer Park has been a staple attraction in Wisconsin Dells for over 50 years. Here you’ll be able to feed, pet, and interact with over 100 deer and other wildlife over 40 acres.
- Timbavati Wildlife Park is home to over 400 animals that represent over 75 species, as well as the old Fort Dells Engine Number 9 train, which takes you on a ride throughout the safari. Choose a VIP tour or animal encounter, where you will be taken behind the scenes to see your favorite animals, as well as get the chance to feed and photograph them up close.
- Wisconsin Big Cat Rescue & Educational Center is home to over a dozen Tigers, Lions, Liligers, Lynx, and African Servals. Take a tour where you can see the animals, or spend the night, where you can be serenaded by the sounds of the big cats.
- Country Bumpkin Farm Market & Lil’ Bumpkin Play Village is home to farm animals like goats, chickens, ducks, and donkeys, as well as peacocks and a miniature horse, all perfect for petting and feeding. In addition to the animals, enjoy lots of fun play areas, u-pick produce, and sweet treats made with seasonal produce.
- Go horseback riding at Red Ridge Ranch Riding Stable or Canyon Creek Riding Stables. Or, alternatively, sit back and enjoy a horse-drawn carriage ride at Lost Canyon Tours through a magnificent mile of cliff-walled gorges.
Downtown Delights
Enjoy activities while you stroll through downtown Wisconsin Dells. Don’t forget to stop by a fudge shop or pick up a souvenir to remember your trip to “The Waterpark Capital of the World!®”
- The Scenic River Walk provides beautiful views of the Upper Dells of the Wisconsin River, as well as “Soul of the River” – an outdoor art gallery with images by local photographer Joseph Leute, featuring stories of the community told by those whose affection for the river runs deep.
- For another art moment, stop at Elm Street Plaza and take your photo in front of a Wisconsin Dells themed wings mural. There is also a smaller mural perfect for small kids and pets.
On the Water
With water galore, there are many activities that feature water as the central focus, even on the chilliest spring day.
- Duck Tours: With two tours in town, exploration of the Wisconsin River in these World War II amphibious vehicles is a must-do. Visit Original Wisconsin Ducks®, celebrating 80 years in 2025, or Dells Army Duck Tours. Both feature fun splashdowns to delight all ages.
- Boat Tours: For a scenic tour up and down the river, try Dells Boat Tours®. With guided tours on both the Upper and Lower Dells of the Wisconsin River, you’ll be sure to have plenty of fun facts and information to entertain others when reminiscing on your vacation.
- With both the Wisconsin River and Lake Delton being nearby, there are plenty of fishing options, from beginner to avid fisherman. Read our inside scoop on what’s biting, where to catch it, who to call if you need a guide, and where to buy bait or rent/launch a boat on our Wisconsin Dells Fishing blog.
No matter how you like to explore, spring in Wisconsin Dells is all about getting outside and making the most of the fresh air. From scenic hikes to up-close animal encounters, there’s no shortage of ways to enjoy the season. To help plan your next trip, see the full list of things to do in Wisconsin Dells in spring.
Updated: 03/25/2025