Fall is a season for stirring scenery, and the Baraboo Hills become a kaleidoscope of color this time of year. One of Wisconsin's most picturesque fall drives meanders through this region, along Highway 113 from Lodi to Baraboo, then up Highway 12 to Mirror Lake State Park.
The route clocks in at just over an hour, but you'll want to stop along the way to enjoy the natural gems clustered throughout the scenic landscape – including Wisconsin's largest and most visited state park, Devil's Lake.
Extend your stay in these magnificent surroundings by booking one of these five cabins and cottages along the route!
Rustic Ridge Log Cabins – Merrimac
Contrary to what its name may suggest, Rustic Ridge offers five uniquely themed luxury cabins with hand-hewn beams, stone fireplaces, jacuzzis and covered decks. Directly adjacent to popular skiing destination Devil's Head Resort, the getaway's bookings peak during the winter months and are lower during fall.
Less than a twenty-minute drive to Devil’s Lake, Ski-Hi Apple Orchard and the popular Wollersheim Winery & Distillery, you and your group will be perfectly placed for the ultimate fall getaway.
Durward's Glen Retreat – Baraboo
This 40-acre haven– listed on the National Register of Historic Places – is the perfect spot for a quaint retreat. The children of an artist who settled on this amazingly scenic property in the mid-1800s donated it to a religious group who has since turned the space into a nonprofit. The extensive grounds offer several spots for spiritual reflection, and hiking trails allow visitors to enjoy the property's natural beauty in every season, though the Driftless area is known for its brilliant landscapes in fall.
Accommodations range from a gorgeous Gothic-style cottage built by the original owner to a large lodge that offers 30 modest rooms. Stay with one friend or 20 for a peaceful getaway surrounded by natural beauty.
Devils Lake Lodge – Baraboo
Traveling with a big group? The Devil's Lake Lodge is a privately owned five-bedroom, four-bathroom log home located just a block from the main entrance to Devil's Lake State Park that will pamper up to 10 guests. You'll find hand-built log frame beds in each of the rooms, along with a jetted tub in the master bedroom. A reading nook in the loft and two fireplaces add to the charm.
For more options this close to Devil’s Lake, there is also Devil’s Lake Grand Cabin and Pinehaven of Baraboo.
Seth Peterson Cottage – Lake Delton
Stay in an architectural marvel designed by Wisconsin's own Frank Lloyd Wright. Perched high on a wooded bluff overlooking Mirror Lake State Park, the Seth Peterson Cottage is an 880-square-foot wood and stone treasure perfect for fall. The cottage, one of Wright's final commissions in 1958, is among just half-a-dozen properties designed by the architect that are available for overnight rental.
With one bed that sleeps two and a pull-out couch bed, this cozy spot is perfect for a romantic getaway or close friends’ trip. Renting the cottage includes a canoe and paddles and firewood perfect for nights under the stars. Take a quick drive to the nearby award-winning Ishnala Supper Club for the perfect ending to your autumn getaway.
Baraboo Hills Campground – Baraboo
If you favor a no-frills experience, try a one-room or two-room cabin – or 12-person rustic sleeping yurt at Baraboo Hills. This family campground offers Wi-Fi hot spots, a heated pool, swimming pond, store, snack shop and a multitude of recreational facilities everyone in your crew will love. Here, you’ll be just a 20-minute drive from the Wisconsin Dells with more autumn activities like the Country Bumpkin Farm Market and the popular Dells Boat Tours.
Keep the fall fun going with 15 hikes from breezy to breathtaking!
