Hike the Osceola Bedrock Glades Loop

Just a short hike to the waterfall, this is a great spot to pull off on your way to the Park with many other trails to spend a whole day on if you wish to stay off the beaten path. 

Getting there: 

Going North through Osceola on HWY 35 Turn left on River Rd (county Rd S) For 1 mile. There is a small turn out on the left, almost directly across from a residential driveway. There are two pilers with a gate indicating the beginning of the trail. 

Trails:

Waterfall- To get to the waterfall, start from the turnout straight down a hill keeping left. This trail will lead to an open prairie. Continue heading West (you should hear the waterfall by now). The trail leads directly to a viewing platform right next to the waterfall. 

Alt: The trail continues down the hill towards a few large ponds. There are hiking loops but they are difficult to find unless it is winter. You will most likely encounter CX skiers on this loop. 

Bluff- Follow the trail like you would head towards the waterfall except this time turn left on the nearest trail. This will lead through the open prairie, past a few ponds, and over a bridge (East of the bridge is a natural springs which feeds into the ponds and rivers, check it out!). Continue down that trail system for about a half a mile. Keep a look out on your right for the bluff below. The trail will eventually lead straight to a fence and loop back around towards the left. To see the bluff there is a bit of a challenging approach to the base, but if you feel comfortable it is worth it (Also note that the sandstone is very loose. Be careful and DO NOT climb on these rocks). 

Notes:

While these are the two main attractions, there are many other trail options. If you break out from the Turnout and head right, you will head straight into Interstate Park passing many bluffs and river ways. There is much to be explored in this less than popular area. 

While this is an awesome area year round, I LOVE exploring it in the winter. The snow is beautiful, the waterfall freezes over, and many more areas become accessible if you can cross the frozen ponds. This is one of the best Winter hikes in Wisconsin!