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Lost Canyon Tours tour agency in Wisconsin Dells, WI
Photo: Lost Canyon Tours
View of Lost Canyon Tours in Wisconsin Dells, WI
Photo: J D
View of Lost Canyon Tours in Wisconsin Dells, WI
Photo: Sara Cook

Lost Canyon Tours

4.8(1,715 reviews)$$Adventure
🕑 2 hours👶 Best for ages 5 and up. The walking portion involves uneven terrain and stairs, making it challenging for toddlers or strollers. School-age children especially enjoy the naturalist's stories and the adventure of exploring narrow canyon passages, while teens appreciate the geological formations and photography opportunities.

About

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.

Highlights

  • Scenic boat ride through picturesque Dells waterways
  • Exploring narrow sandstone canyon passages formed over thousands of years
  • Engaging naturalist guides who make geology and ecology fun for kids
  • Unique rock formations and hidden grottos that spark children's imagination
  • Spotting wildlife and native plants in their natural habitat

Pro Tips

  1. 1.Book the first tour of the day to beat crowds and catch the best lighting for photos in the canyons
  2. 2.Wear sturdy closed-toe shoes with good grip,the walking paths can be slippery and uneven, especially after rain
  3. 3.Bring a light jacket even on warm days, as the canyons stay noticeably cooler and you'll be in shade much of the time
  4. 4.Ask the naturalist questions,they love engaging with curious kids and can tailor their commentary to younger audiences
  5. 5.Skip the stroller and use a baby carrier if you have younger children; the terrain isn't stroller-friendly

Best Time to Visit

Visit on weekday mornings in late May or early September for smaller groups and comfortable temperatures. The canyons are naturally cooler, making summer visits pleasant, but early fall offers beautiful foliage and fewer tourists after school starts.

What to Know

Tours typically last about 2 hours and require moderate walking ability with some stairs and uneven surfaces. Restrooms are available at the tour facility, and tickets should be purchased in advance during peak summer season as tours often sell out.

Seasonal Notes

Open from late April through October, weather permitting. Tours may be cancelled during severe weather. Peak season runs June through August with the most frequent tour times. Spring and fall offer cooler temperatures and thinner crowds, though fall foliage in September makes it particularly scenic.

Nearby Eats

The nearby Moosejaw Pizza & Dells Brewing Company (family-friendly brewpub with great pizza and a kids menu) or Paul Bunyan's Cook Shanty (all-you-can-eat lumberjack-themed restaurant kids find entertaining) are both within a 10-minute drive.

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Ichnology Trail at Rocky Arbor

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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.