Devil’s Punchbowl Preserve near Menomonie, Wisconsin is a small but memorable natural area known for its sandstone rock amphitheater, seasonal waterfall, and short trails that lead both above and down into the bowl. Even though it is only a brief stop, it is one of those places that feels dramatic the moment you arrive.
We made the drive from Green Bay on a day when the weather felt too nice to stay home. My daughter had the day off, and Devil’s Punchbowl was one of those places I had wanted to see for a long time. In winter, the ice formations and layered rock make it especially striking.
General Information
| Location | Devil’s Punchbowl Preserve |
| City | Menomonie |
| County | Dunn County |
| State | Wisconsin |
| Address | 410th Street / Paradise Valley Road, Menomonie, WI 54751 |
| Size | About 3 acres |
| Managed By | Landmark Conservancy |
| Trail Options | Two short trails, including an upper overlook trail and a steeper trail into the bowl |
| Best For | Short hikes, geology, seasonal waterfall views, winter ice, and photography |
| Parking | Free off-street parking |
| Google Maps Location | View on Google Maps |
The preserve has two short trails, but the trail down into the bowl is the more challenging route. Wear sturdy footwear, and be especially careful in wet or icy conditions.
Finding the Preserve
One thing worth knowing before you go is that the address can be a little confusing if you are not paying attention to the full road name. We were told it was on 410th Street, plugged that into the GPS, and ended up at the wrong place first.
The correct route is along 410th Street, also known as Paradise Valley Road. Once we got pointed in the right direction, the preserve was easy enough to find. If you are heading there for the first time, double-check the map before you go so you do not end up making the same mistake we did.
Winter Conditions and Slippery Stairs
From the first set of stairs, I could already see the tunnel and knew I wanted to make that our first stop. The only problem was getting down there. Everything was icy, slick, and just unstable enough to make every step feel like a decision.
At some point in winter exploring, pride gives way to practicality. After a few too many slips in past winters, I was perfectly willing to scoot down one careful thump at a time if that meant staying upright. Glamorous? No. Effective? Absolutely.
If you visit in winter, take the stairs slowly and wear shoes with good traction. The preserve is beautiful in cold weather, but it is not the place for rushed footing.
The Graffiti Tunnel
The tunnel was one of the more unexpected parts of the visit. Inside, the ice was smooth and slick like a little skating rink, so we stayed along the wall and used it to guide ourselves through. The tunnel itself was covered in graffiti, both words and artwork, and some of the tags were actually pretty interesting.
We wanted to explore further through it and see what was beyond, but the clear ice made us pause and think a little harder about how adventurous we were feeling that day.
Video Inside the Tunnel
You could hear running water moving underneath the ice, and just before the tunnel entrance it bubbled out in one spot. After watching it for a bit, we decided that even if we did go through, the biggest consequence would probably be wet boots rather than some grand wilderness disaster.
Inside the Bowl
The bowl itself is what makes this preserve so memorable. The layered sandstone walls curve around the space like a natural amphitheater, and in winter the frozen water clings to the rock in long sheets and thick columns of ice.
Even though the preserve is small, it feels bigger once you are standing inside it. The rock, ice, and enclosed shape make it feel tucked away from everything else.
Us Just Having Fun
More Exploring
After spending time down inside the bowl, we made our way around the upper loop for a different perspective. The preserve may be short on mileage, but it gives you more than one way to experience the rock formation.
I would love to see this place again in spring or summer when the water is flowing differently, the prairie is greener, and the whole area has a softer look than it does in winter.
Helpful Tips Before You Go
- Double-check your directions before leaving home.
- Wear sturdy footwear, especially if visiting in winter or after rain.
- Be prepared for slippery stairs and damp ground.
- This is a short stop, but plan a little extra time if you want to explore both trails.
- Stay on trails and respect the preserve boundaries.
Final Thoughts
Devil’s Punchbowl Preserve is one of those places that proves a short walk can still feel like an adventure. Between the stairs, tunnel, rock walls, and winter ice, it has a lot more character than its size might suggest.
If you enjoy unusual geology, scenic little preserves, or winter exploring in Wisconsin, this one is well worth the stop.
Hope you enjoyed exploring with us.