Governor Dodge State Park Lost Canyon Quarry Road
Quarry roads through Wisconsin's deepest coulees
Lost Canyon Quarry Road follows an old industrial route that once hauled sandstone blocks from quarries hidden in Governor Dodge State Park’s deepest coulees. The 8-mile route descends through narrow ravines carved by glacial meltwater, with exposed limestone ledges and loose shale creating technical climbs around Stephens Falls and the abandoned quarry sites where massive stone blocks still litter the canyon floor.
Difficult rating demands experienced drivers and modified 4WDs with skid plates and recovery points. Rocky surfaces and steep grades make this unsuitable for stock vehicles. Spring brings muddy conditions and potential washouts, making late summer through early fall ideal. Park admission required but no additional permits. Designated camping only at park campgrounds. The reward is accessing some of Wisconsin’s most dramatic geological features and industrial archaeology in the heart of the Driftless Area.
Trail Specs
| Difficulty | Difficult |
|---|---|
| Trail Type | Technical 4x4 |
| Surface | Dirt, Rock |
| Features | Historic, Scenic, Water Crossings |
| Length (miles) | 8 mi / 12.9 km |
| Duration | Half day |
| Max elevation (ft) | 1320 ft |
| Best season | August-October |
| Minimum vehicle | Modified 4WD with skid plates |
| Nearest town | Dodgeville, WI |
| Land manager | Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources |
| Permit required | Yes |
| Cell service | Decent |
| Water crossings | Yes |
| Dispersed camping | No |
| Start coordinates | |
| End coordinates | |
| Copy both for Google Maps directionsClick to copy the directions URL · or open it directly in a new tab | |
| Find on Google | Search on Google → |
Location
Trail Conditions
No recent condition reports. Be the first to post one.
Log in to post a condition report.
Frequently asked questions
Can my stock Jeep Wrangler handle the Lost Canyon Quarry Road?
No, this trail requires modified 4WD with skid plates due to steep rocky ledges and technical sections through the coulees. Stock vehicles will take damage on the quarry road's sharp limestone outcroppings.
Is the quarry road open in winter and spring?
No, the trail is best accessed August through October when conditions are dry. Spring snowmelt and winter conditions make the steep coulee sections impassable and dangerous.
Do I need a permit to drive the quarry road at Governor Dodge State Park?
Yes, you need a Wisconsin state park vehicle admission sticker. The quarry road is within park boundaries and requires the standard state park entry fee.
What's the most technical part of this trail?
The steepest rocky ledges descending into the coulees are the crux sections. You'll need precise line choice and solid skid plate protection for the sharp limestone shelf drops.
How deep are the water crossings on this trail?
The creek crossings are typically shallow (6-12 inches) but can rise quickly after rain in these narrow coulees. Check water levels before entering the canyon sections.