Long before there were thrill rides and water parks in the Wisconsin Dells, the area was covered by a vast sea – and much more recently, a large glacial lake. The geologic and natural history shaped the terrain in some incredible ways, and in the 1800s the unique scenery caused this area to become a tourist destination. A lot has changed in the Dells in recent years, but the timeless beauty of the bluffs and rock formations in the Wisconsin Dells continues to wow visitors.
The story of the unique landscape in the Wisconsin Dells begins more than 500 years ago, before the age of dinosaurs. During this era, this area of Wisconsin was covered by a vast, shallow sea.
After the sea disappeared, the sandstone remained, but it wouldn’t be sculpted into its current state until much later.
When glaciers covered much of Wisconsin, the Dells area was located on the outskirts of these frozen masses. Melting glacial water eventually formed a huge lake called Glacial Lake.
A dam of ice held the lake back, but eventually it broke, causing a catastrophic flood that carved the sandstone into its current form.
Today, the Wisconsin Dells is as unique as it is scenic. The gorge is about five miles long and it’s flanked by towering 100-foot cliffs and jaw-dropping rock formations.
Some side canyons are very fragile and protected, but boat tours take visitors on a scenic trip through this geologic wonderland. Woodland trails give hikers additional paths to explore the landscape.
Learn more about the Dells of the Wisconsin River, including trail and paddling information on the state Department of Natural Resources website. While you’re in the Dells area, you might want to visit the studio of an early photographer who documented the Dells. But be warned: it’s a little spooky!
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