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Posted in Wisconsin Hiking, Nature, Small Towns March 10, 2020 by Daniella DiRienzo

Hike Straight Through A Giant Rock Formation At Pier Natural Bridge Park In Wisconsin

The next time you’re in need of an outdoor adventure, hop in the car and head to Pier Natural Bridge Park. A small park that delivers in a big way, it features a giant rock formation and a short trek that’ll take you straight through it. Take a look:

A true hidden gem, Pier Natural Bridge State Park is tucked away in the tiny village of Rockbridge, which is in the small town of Richland Center.

At just 10 acres, it’s one of the state’s smaller parks, but it’s also one of the most unique since it’s home to an unusual geological feature, which is known as a finger.

Made of blocked and layered sandstone, the finger is a half-mile long and stands nearly 60’ above the flood plain of two merging valleys.

The best way to see the huge rock formation is to walk right through it – and thanks to a man-made tunnel, you can do just that.

The tunnel is part of a short 1-mile loop trail, which practically begins at the park’s parking lot. After exiting your car, simply walk along the rock formation and you’ll be led straight to it.

After making your way through the tunnel to the west side of the ridge, you’ll find a footbridge, which traverses the Pine River.

As you continue along, you’ll come across stairs, which lead to the top of the rock formation and…

…some expansive views.

Merging recreation and education, the park features two historical markers. The first addresses the park’s unique rock formation, while the second provides information on the Blackhawk wars in the area.

Home to an incredible geological wonder, Pier Natural Bridge State Park is one hidden gem that you'll want to seek out.

For more information, call Natural Bridge Store in Rockbridge at (608) 647-4673. You can also visit the Richland County Park Commission website.

Did you know about this park? Ever visit? If so, what’d you think? Know of another incredible park? Tell us in the comments section.

This isn’t the only unique trek in the state. Read about another here.

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article.

Address: 17520 Old Hwy 80 Dr, Richland Center, WI 53581, USA

Daniella DiRienzo

Though Daniella was born in New York and has lived in a couple of other states, Mississippi has been her home for the past 25 years. After graduating from the University of Southern Mississippi, Daniella began to hone her writing skills through various internships, working for The Royal Obsession and Anatomie clothing. In the years since, she’s had the privilege of having her articles appear in several publications, such as Parents & Kids Magazine and Girl Meets Strong. She’s also had the honor of interviewing actress Sela Ward for The Mississippi Arts and Entertainment Experience.