Whitefish Dunes State Park

Hiking Whitefish Dunes Park, Door County, Wisconsin

Old Baldy Dune Whitefish Dunes State Park
Jo coming down from the Old Baldy Observation Tower

On the second day (October 8th) of our fall color trip to Door County we decided to explore the eastern side of the peninsula, called the quiet side since it has fewer resorts and fewer tourist attractions. One popular spot, however, is Whitefish Dunes State Park. Several hiking trails, an extensive sand beach (great for swimming in the summer time), picnic areas, nine hiking trails, and a nature center. Whitefish is a day use area so there are no camping facilities.

We decided to hike the Red Trail out to the Old Baldy observation tower located on the highest of the dunes that line the lakeshore in the park. The loop provides a variety of terrain running near the lake shore on the way out and then behind the dunes on the way back to the nature center. The 2.8 mile hike was just the right amount of exercise. We packed in a lunch which we enjoyed in the enclosed shelter near the nature center. Although a sunny day, the temps were in the 50s and the wind was roaring more than 25 mph so finding the enclosed shelter was a welcome discovery.

Whitefish Dunes State Park Hiking Trail
The Boardwalk on the Red Trail at the base of Old Baldy
Whitefish Dunes State Park Hiking Trail
Red Trail hiking loop at Whitefish Dunes State Park


Whitefish Dunes State Park Beach
On a cool fall day with temps in the 50s, the beach is empty
Whitefish Dunes State Park Beach
Looking towards Whitefish Dunes beach on a windy fall day

On our way back to our lodging in Sturgeon Bay, we stopped at Mike’s Port Pub & Grill for dinner. We found Mike’s by Googling places to eat in Jacksonport and Baileys Harbor. The four reviews were quite positive recommending Mike’s for their great food, excellent friendly and competent service, and decent prices. So we decided to give Mike’s a try.

We were not disappointed. Family run and true home cooking. Our service came right off the grill. My walleye sandwich was so hot I almost had to let it cool before biting into it. Moist, lightly breaded, one of the best fish sandwiches in my memory. Dan was equally enthusiastic over his steak sandwich and Donna’s shrimp was done just right skewed on sticks. Jo gave her burger 5 stars. By the time our dinner was over, the place was full . . . testimony to its reputation.

Mile's Port Bar & Grille
Nothing fancy about Mike’s exterior either but Mike’s shines in taste of a different kind, what goes in your mouth!
Mile's Port Bar & Grille
The inside of Mile’s Port Bar is typical small town Wisconsin but the food and service is big time.

Tomorrow rain is in the forecast. We plan to visit the Maritime Museum and other attractions in Sturgeon Bay.

Door County Visitors Bureau

Discover more information on Door County at HelloDoorCounty.com

Roscoe