Bay Shore Blufflands Nature Preserve
Dramatic bluffs and diverse habitats
At 273 acres, this preserve offers sweeping views from atop the Niagara Escarpment with 2.5 miles of trails through varied terrain.
Trail Map
The Bay Shore Blufflands Nature Preserve protects 273 acres of diverse habitats along the Niagara Escarpment. From open grasslands to dense forest, and from the bluff-top to the shore, this preserve showcases the ecological richness of Door County.
Trails
Three interconnected trails wind through the preserve, totaling 2.5 miles:
Bluff Loop Trail (1.2 miles, moderate) — The main loop circles through mixed hardwood forest before reaching the dramatic bluff overlook with panoramic views of Green Bay.
Escarpment Trail (0.8 miles, difficult) — A steeper trail that descends along the face of the Niagara Escarpment. Rocky terrain and elevation change make this a more challenging option.
Meadow Connector (0.5 miles, easy) — A gentle mowed-grass path through restored prairie, connecting the parking area to the eastern portions of the trail system.
Terrain
Most terrain is easy to moderate, with well-maintained natural surface trails. The Escarpment Trail includes a steep incline along the bluff slope—sturdy footwear recommended.
Natural Features
The Niagara Escarpment, a 650-mile geological formation stretching from New York to Wisconsin, forms the backbone of this preserve. The escarpment’s exposed dolomite cliffs create unique microclimates supporting rare plant communities.
Restored grasslands in the eastern portion provide habitat for ground-nesting birds and native pollinators. The preserve is particularly notable for spring wildflowers and fall hawk migration.
Stewardship
Door County Land Trust staff and volunteers actively manage this preserve through invasive species removal, prescribed burns in the grassland areas, and trail maintenance. The grassland restoration, begun in 2008, has successfully established native prairie species including big bluestem, prairie dock, and wild bergamot.