Even before the pandemic, Cave Point was my happy place. It’s got everything – hiking, water, excellent splash opportunities. During the pandemic, it’s become a safe haven for my mental health, whether I stop by on my own or adventure with my dear friend, Jen.
It really doesn’t matter what time of year one heads to Cave Point – it’s always beautiful. And calming. Even when there’s freezing rain or such strong wind that the splashes easily overshadow (and drench) anyone who is standing on the cliffs. Which is why safety is always the key. Especially when the cliff tops are covered in ice – which adds to the beauty, but also requires proper equipment.
Last weekend, I headed up to Cave Point with a couple friends, and the water was so calm and low that we were able to climb down (safely, of course) one of the cliffs and use our ice cleats along the limestone below – normally under water. We could not have asked for a more beautiful day. (Though don’t let the pics deceive – it was cold, like -8 wind chill cold – which is why I again say proper equipment is important.)
Cave Point is located on Lake Michigan between the towns of Valmy and Jacksonport on the Door County Peninsula, the “thumb” of the state of Wisconsin. The cliffs are made of dolomite and limestone, part of the Niagara Escarpment that runs under the entire county, and have been carved by centuries of beatings from the lake.
In the 1930s, the Door County Board of Supervisors had the forethought to preserve nineteen acres, which is today known as Cave Point County Park. If you’re feeling up to some traipsing through the woods, there is a trail along the shore that will take you all the way to Whitefish Dunes State Park. During the summer, there are picnic benches you can sit at and eat lunch (please take all trash out with you). If you’re an experienced diver, you can access dozens of underwater caves. If you like to kayak, there is a launch about a mile north of the park.
I highly recommend finding a good spot to sit and watch the water – and wait for the perfect splash.
*Whenever we go to Cave Point, Jen and I sneak pics of one another as we explore. These two are ones she snuck of me. 🙂
Ami Maxine 