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Whitefish Dunes State Natural Area
4.7 ★★★★★ 192 Google reviews · Running trail in Sturgeon Bay, Wisconsin · Hours vary
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Not reported
- Distance
- Not reported
- Shape
- Not reported
- Shade
- Not reported
- Access
- Not reported
We have not been able to confirm the surface, distance or shape of Whitefish Dunes State Natural Area yet from its own listing, the park's website or runner reviews — so those cells stay blank rather than guess. What is below comes straight from the listing and from reviewers' own words. There is no Easy / Moderate / Hard rating on this page on purpose: a one-word difficulty score tells you nothing about whether a trail suits your run. Surface, distance, shade and hours do.
State park featuring a sandy beach, hiking trails and wooded areas.
What runners say about Whitefish Dunes State Natural Area
“It’s the only way to keep these types of places, perfectly sparkly, clean and fresh for the next family.”
“A storm had just passed through, which may explain the rough, high waters, but it produced some beautiful fog and mist”
We have been going to Whitefish Dunes for years, we love it! It is our most frequented state park. We enjoy all of the hiking trails, and have managed every single one with very small children. When we're done hiking we always stop at the beach.
I’ve been coming to whitefish dunes for over 30 years. If you are into walking the trails, exploring nature and even kayaking this is your place. Of parking directly in front they also just put in a brand new parking lot behind the bathrooms. The trails run and every direction. Come early And claim your spot.
A lovely four-mile winter walk through the woods and along Lake Michigan. Wisconsin state park fee of $11 can be paid by cash or check in the parking lot.
Great state park with easy access to Lake Michigan. Trails are open for hiking, snowshoeing and skiing. Bathrooms open at the main trail head in the winter. The ice on trees along the shore is beautiful. The lake edge trail is a little icy, walk with caution!
Trail conditions & character
“A storm had just passed through, which may explain the rough, high waters, but it produced some beautiful fog and mist”
“There are a great many fish washed ashore, which is a little annoying, esp when we bring our dog, but it most definitely has never deterred us!”
“Of parking directly in front they also just put in a brand new parking lot behind the bathrooms.”
“Of parking directly in front they also just put in a brand new parking lot behind the bathrooms.”
Plan your run at Whitefish Dunes State Natural Area
The practical stuff
- AccessHours vary — hours are not posted for this trail, so check before an early or late run
- DistanceNot reported. Trail systems often quote total path mileage rather than a single loop, so measure the route you actually want before you drive out.
- ShadeNot reported. Assume some of it is exposed and carry water in summer.
- At the trailheadparking, restrooms — reported by runners
- DogsWelcome, per reviewers. Leash rules vary by park — the trailhead sign is the authority.
- Phone+1 608-266-0394
Running trails near Sturgeon Bay
Other trails within easy driving distance — useful when this one is flooded, gated, or just not the run you had in mind today.
Door County Adventure Center at Whitefish Dunes State Park
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