Discover the Natural Wonders of Donges Bay Gorge
Explore the scenic beauty and diverse ecosystems of Donges Bay Gorge Natural Area, a tranquil nature preserve overlooking Lake Michigan.
Donges Bay Gorge Natural Area in Mequon, Wisconsin, is a breathtaking nature preserve that offers tourists a unique blend of scenic views, hiking trails, and rich biodiversity. With its stunning cliffs overlooking Lake Michigan, it's the perfect destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
A brief summary to Donges Bay Gorge Natural Area
- Mequon, Wisconsin, 53092, US
- +1262-338-1794
- Visit website
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to enjoy the stunning light for photography.
- Bring binoculars for birdwatching; the area is home to various local bird species.
- Wear sturdy hiking shoes, as some trails can be rocky and uneven.
- Pack a picnic to enjoy at one of the scenic overlooks.
- Check local guidelines for any seasonal closures or trail updates before your visit.
Getting There
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Car
From anywhere in Northern Highland, head southeast on US-51 S towards WI-70 E. Continue on US-51 S for approximately 25 miles until you reach the exit for WI-57 S towards Sheboygan. Merge onto WI-57 S and continue for about 12 miles. Turn left onto Donges Bay Road. Continue on Donges Bay Road for about 3 miles, and you will arrive at Donges Bay Gorge Natural Area, located at Mequon, WI 53092.
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Public Transportation
If you're using public transportation, start by taking a bus from your location in Northern Highland to the nearest city with transit options, such as Minocqua or Rhinelander. From there, you will need to take a bus to Milwaukee. Once in Milwaukee, transfer to a bus heading to Mequon. You may need to check the local bus schedules for exact times and routes. Once you arrive in Mequon, you can use a rideshare service like Uber or Lyft to reach Donges Bay Gorge Natural Area, which is about 5 miles from downtown Mequon.
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Bicycle
For the adventurous cyclist, if you're in the Northern Highland area, you can bike to Donges Bay Gorge Natural Area. Start by heading southeast on local roads towards WI-57 S. This route will take you through scenic countryside and small towns. Make sure to follow the bike lanes where available and observe traffic rules. Once you reach WI-57 S, follow the same instructions as for driving to reach Donges Bay Road and then to the Natural Area. Be prepared for approximately 20 miles of biking, and check the weather before you start.
Discover more about Donges Bay Gorge Natural Area
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Wisconsin State Historical Marker 85: Oldest Lutheran Church in Wisconsin
11.8 km
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Wisconsin State Historical Marker 358: Washington Avenue Historic District
12.0 km
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Blues Trail: Paramount Records Historical Landmark
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Wisconsin State Historical Marker 289: Historic Cedarburg
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Benjamin Church House
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Wisconsin State Historical Marker 549: Birthplace of the Wisconsin Evangelical Lutheran Synod
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Wisconsin State Historical Marker 446: Lueddemann’s-On-The-River
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Historical Marker 308: The University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee
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Borchert Field Historic Site
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The Grand Staircase by Alfred C. Clas
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Wisconsin State Historical Marker 535: North Point Light Station
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Fredrick Bogk House by Frank Lloyd Wright
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Wisconsin State Historical Marker 155: Saint John's Infirmary
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Historical Marker 288: Civil War Camp
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Unmissable attractions to see
Virmond Park
0.7 km
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Schlitz Audubon Nature Center
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Lynden Sculpture Garden
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Brown Deer Park
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Highland Woods
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Mequon Nature Preserve
8.8 km
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Wisconsin Museum of Quilts & Fiber Arts
11.4 km
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Lime Kiln Park
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Atwater Park
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Gathering Place Brewing Company
13.4 km
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Lion's Den Gorge Nature Preserve
14.7 km
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Lake Park
15.5 km
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Lake Park Waterfall
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Wisconsin Black Historical Society/Museum
15.8 km
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North Point Lighthouse
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Essential places to dine
the cheel
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The Farmstead
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Flipside Cafe & Grill
13.0 km
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Bartolotta's Lake Park Bistro
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Tess
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The Original
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Strange Town
16.6 km
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Ardent
16.9 km
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Dorsia
17.0 km
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Birch
17.2 km
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Sanford
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The Pasta Tree Restaurant & Wine Bar
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Scene 1 Restaurant & Lounge MKE
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AJ Bombers
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The Knick
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Bayshore Mall
9.4 km
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The Gem Shop, Inc.
12.8 km
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Handmade with Love
13.2 km
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Fischberger's Variety
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The Bronzeville Collective MKE
16.2 km
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Urban Outfitters
16.4 km
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Orange and Blue Co.
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Urban Milwaukee: The Store
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Museum Marketplace
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Museum Store
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Swoon LLC
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Barcelona - Artful Living
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Vista 59 Artisan Boutique & Gallery
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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Wolski's Tavern
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Jamo's
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The Garage
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Nomad World Pub
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Bubs Irish Pub
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Y-Not II Tavern
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Taylors
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Belmont Tavern
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