Walk literally in the footsteps of ancient creatures at this fascinating nature trail in Rocky Arbor State Park. Kids will be amazed to see real fossilized dinosaur and arthropod tracks preserved in 500-million-year-old sandstone along an easy, scenic hiking path. It's a perfect blend of outdoor adventure and hands-on paleontology that brings prehistoric life to vivid reality for young explorers.
Visit on weekday mornings during late spring or early fall for comfortable temperatures, fewer crowds, and optimal lighting for seeing the fossil impressions. Summer mornings work well too but arrive early before the heat peaks.
Rocky Arbor State Park requires a Wisconsin State Park vehicle admission sticker (daily or annual pass available at entrance). The trail is about a half-mile loop with some stairs and uneven surfaces, and there are restrooms and picnic facilities at the park entrance.
The trail is accessible year-round, but spring through fall offers the best experience. Winter visits are possible but can be icy and the fossil tracks may be snow-covered. Peak leaf season in October adds extra scenic beauty to your visit.
Head to Moosejaw Pizza & Dells Brewing Co. (family-friendly brewery with excellent pizza and a kids menu) or Cheeze Factory Restaurant (casual Wisconsin comfort food including cheese curds kids love), both about 5 miles away in Wisconsin Dells.
Sugarbush Hill offers an authentic farm experience where kids can get up close with friendly animals, enjoy scenic hayrides through the countryside, and participate in hands-on seasonal activities. This charming petting farm in the Wisconsin Dells area provides a perfect escape from the water park scene, giving families a chance to connect with nature and learn about farm life in a relaxed, interactive setting.
Lost Canyon Tours offers families a unique combination of boat ride and guided nature walk through Wisconsin Dells' stunning sandstone canyons. Expert naturalists share fascinating geological and natural history in an engaging way that captivates both kids and adults, while the ever-changing scenery keeps young explorers excited throughout the journey. With an impressive 4.8-star rating from over 1,700 reviews, it's a beloved Dells experience that goes beyond typical tourist attractions.
Dells Boat Tours offers a relaxing and scenic cruise through the stunning sandstone formations of Wisconsin Dells gorge, perfect for families who want to experience the area's natural beauty without strenuous hiking. Kids stay engaged with entertaining narration that brings the rock formations to life, while parents enjoy comfortable seating on spacious pontoon boats and spectacular photo opportunities of towering cliffs and unique geological features.
Wizard Quest offers an immersive, interactive fantasy adventure where families work together to solve puzzles, complete quests, and explore magical realms. Unlike traditional escape rooms, this multi-level experience lets you roam freely through themed environments filled with riddles, challenges, and special effects that bring the wizarding world to life.