Wisconsin is a nature enthusiast’s dream, with miles of stunning lakeshores, dense forests, and inspiring rivers. Today’s feature destination isn’t exactly a hidden gem, but it’s considered to be among the most breathtaking wonders in America. Big Manitou Falls, which measures 165 feet, is the tallest waterfall in Wisconsin. If you’ve never visited this wonderful destination, it deserves a spot at the very top of your Wisconsin bucket list.

To find Big Manitou Falls, you'll want to travel to Douglas County and visit the lovely Pattison State Park.
Sarah Carsello / Google
Big Manitou Falls and Little Manitou Falls can both be seen along a 4-mile loop trail within the state park. For a shorter trek, take the Big Manitou Falls Loop, which is just 1 mile.
The waterfall is the crown jewel of the park, an absolutely stunning 165-foot-high waterfall.
rruntsch / Getty Images
This stunning landmark formed thousands of years ago, when the glaciers last retreated and the river eroded the soft layers of clay and sandstone, forming a steep gorge.
Dcwcreations / Getty Images

Related Stories

Few People Know There's A Beautiful State Park Hiding In This Tiny Wisconsin Town

Few People Know There's A Beautiful State Park Hiding In This Tiny Wisconsin Town

 The Little-Known Mount Pisgah Hemlock Trail In Wisconsin Is Unexpectedly Magical

The Little-Known Mount Pisgah Hemlock Trail In Wisconsin Is Unexpectedly Magical

 Only Accessible By Hike, This Natural Wonder In Wisconsin Rivals The Apostle Islands

Only Accessible By Hike, This Natural Wonder In Wisconsin Rivals The Apostle Islands
Another unique layer that appears underneath the clay and limestone is basalt, signaling the intense volcanic action of nearly a billion years ago.
John_Brueske / Getty Images
Observing the waterfall in person, you won't help but notice its splendor. In fact, it's the fourth-tallest waterfall east of the Rocky Mountains, and its name derives from the Native American Gitchee Manitou meaning "Great Spirit" in several Algonquian languages.
John_Brueske / Getty Images
For those with an interest in rivers and waterfalls, Pattison State Park truly is a remarkable place to spend the day.
MaryJane Randolph / Google
If you're looking to extend your trip, it's also possible to camp within the state park.
EDD Probe / Google
For camping information, trail maps, and more, be sure to visit the official Pattison State Park website.

Have you ever visited Big Manitou Falls in Wisconsin? What did you think of this national treasure? Feel free to share your thoughts with us in the comments below — we would love to hear from you! For more beautiful places to explore nearby, check out our list of the most stunning natural wonders in Wisconsin.

Looking for even more travel inspiration? Watch the brief video below highlighting Big Manitou Falls. You’ll quickly see what makes this waterfall so special!

 

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

Related Articles

Explore Wisconsin

Featured Addresses
Big Manitou Falls, Superior, WI 54880, USA