Lion's Den Nature Preserve - Grafton, WI

In my birding hotspot research, Lion's Den Nature Preserve kept showing up.  So, why it took me until late summer, 2013, to finally get there, I couldn't really say. (Well, I was busy discovering other places, but still...)  Lion's Den has quickly become a go-to place for me. For hiking, birding, just escaping.  It's beautiful in every season. The trails are even tolerable in winter, though they aren't groomed.  It's a popular place for dog walking (though dogs must be leashed).  

Along the bluffs of Lake Michigan, and adjacent to the Ulao Waterfowl Production area,  Lion's Den has a multitude of different landscapes to hike, and beautiful picnic spots, too.  There is a steep staircase that leads down into a gorge and onto Lake Michigan. It's worth the effort for the beach views.  Admission is free.

A nature center with restrooms was being added during Summer 2022.  
Hunting is permitted on the property in-season, with the park being closed to visitors during such time. Check here for more info.

Location: 511 High Bluff Dr., Grafton, WI 53024 (Ozaukee County)
For more information visit the park website.