How to Plan a Perfect Day at Peninsula State Park in WI
A Door County vacation would be incomplete without a trip to Peninsula State Park in WI. An estimated one million visitors flock to this 3,776-acre park annually for outdoor adventures and unbeatable views. From hiking to golfing, there’s so much to discover during your visit.
Need more help planning the ultimate Door County getaway? Access your free copy of our Vacation Guide today! Inside, you’ll find a locally approved list of the area’s best restaurants, events, attractions, and more.
The Top 6 Things to Do at Peninsula State Park in WI
When it comes to Door County State Parks, Peninsula State Park is one of the best. Discover eight miles of Green Bay shoreline, scenic vistas, and abundant wildlife when you spend a day here.
1. Go Hiking
Peninsula State Park is one of our favorite places for hiking in Door County. Choose from over a dozen marked hiking trails of varying distances and degrees of difficulty. Beginners love the White Cedar Nature Trail, a half-mile loop accessed at the nature center. If you’re looking for a challenge, hike the difficult two-mile Eagle Trail to Eagle Tower. The climb is steep and rocky, but the stunning view from the top of the lookout is unforgettable.
2. Visit Nicolet Beach
There’s nothing better than a day at the beach! Pack your beach bag for a day of lounging on the sand and swimming in Nicolet Bay. Grab a snack at the concessions bar or play a game of volleyball on the sand courts. Paddleboard and kayak rentals are also available here.
3. Play a Round of Golf
When it opened in 1917, the Peninsula State Park Golf Course was just a six-hole “short course.” Today, visitors can tee off at the full 18-hole golf course that boasts gorgeous views of the Village of Ephraim and Eagle Harbor. The course is open to the public from mid-April through mid-October.
Book your tee time online and get ready to practice your swing!
4. Rent a Bike
If you’d like to explore the park on two wheels, pick up a bike rental at Edge of Park and start pedaling! Travel off the beaten path on the 12 miles of off-road biking trails through the park’s rugged interior. The trails are challenging and unmarked, so be prepared for the journey. Or, follow the Sunset Bike Trail, a 9.6-mile gravel path accessed at the park’s Fish Creek entrance. You’ll pass by marshes, cliffs, and bluffs along the way.
5. Kayak to Horseshoe Island
Horseshoe Island, named for its distinct shape, is the only island incorporated into Peninsula State Park. In the spring and summer months, visitors love kayaking from Nicolet Beach to the 38-acre island. Once there, explore the hiking trail, go fishing, or take a minute to appreciate your peaceful surroundings.
6. See a Show at the Northern Sky Theater
Northern Sky Theater, in the heart of the exquisite park, is the perfect spot to enjoy a performance under the stars. This seasonal theater is open for the summer and fall, with special shows occurring during the holiday season. Enjoy the great outdoors while experiencing Door County’s thriving theater community first-hand.
Check out their upcoming shows and plan a date night for your next visit!
End Your Journey at The Ashbrooke
After a day of exploring Peninsula State Park WI, enjoy some much-needed rest and relaxation at The Ashbrooke. Our adults-only hotel features premium amenities such as a spacious sundeck, indoor pool, and fitness center for guest use. When planning your next vacation, consider booking one of our Grande Suites. Cozy up by the two-sided fireplace on cool nights and watch a movie on one of the suite’s two HDTVs. This room type features a plush king bed and a separate living room. It’s the perfect place for a romantic getaway with the one you love.