Stephens Falls

A Waterfall Hike Through a Winter Wonderland 

This hike began when we got cabin fever during the winter and we just wanted to get out of the house for just one night. We packed up the car and drove about 2.5 hours. The first stop was Stephens Falls. We simply googled the closest waterfalls to Chicago and found this waterfall in Governor Dodge State Park in Wisconsin. It was an unusually sunny April weekend so we thought the snow would have melted... We were wrong. This place was COVERED in snow when we arrived. We were kinda salty. But as beginner adventures we had no idea the snow in the forest would far outlast the melted city snow. We decided to hike anyway with no chains, no spikes, no nothin, jesus. Just vibes. We hiked in ankle deep snow for like 10 mins before we made it to Stephens falls. The waterfall was frozen over and it made the snowy background look more mystical than ever. There was a couple ice climbing on the waterfall. We were shooketh. It was so fun to watch! I really admire the courage, I thought the materials alone looked scary and intimidating enough. Kam said it looks like a board on Tomb Raider.  We then hiked around the loop for another 3 miles in the snow. It was hard af, we were breathing all loud and stuff. The hike was very relaxing because of the sound of the crunching snow under our feet. This happens to be the first time we hiked in snow, It was so magical! The snow was so clean, crunchy and untouched, so different from the city. Lets not forget the air was like 50-55 degrees perfect weather for hiking!  I can't wait to check it out in the summer. Apparently the waterfalls and wildflowers are not to be missed. Watching Ice climbers would have to suffice for now!  See you out there!