Best Waterfalls in Wisconsin: 13 Local Favorites & Hidden Gems

Explore Wisconsin’s hidden natural gems in the form of stunning waterfalls. From popular favorites to lesser-known spots, Wisconsin offers a variety of cascades worth discovering. Here are 13 of the best waterfalls in Wisconsin that you won’t want to miss. Get ready for an outdoor adventure in the Badger State!

Tallest Waterfalls In Wisconsin

Some of WI’s tallest waterfalls, Big Manitou Falls, Copper Falls, Superior Falls, and Potato River Falls, offer captivating natural beauty – one even reaches 165 feet! These waterfalls attract visitors from near and far who want to check out these falls up close and personal.

Big Manitou Falls, Superior, WI 54880, USA

Dougtone, CC BY-SA 2.0 creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.0>, via Wikimedia Commons

Location: Pattison State Park

Popularity: Pattison State Park is busiest on summer weekends and holidays, especially around the waterfalls and picnic areas. To avoid crowds, go on weekdays or during spring or fall, and arrive early.

Need To Know Big Manitou Falls in Pattison State Park has paved paths for easy access. Arrive early for parking near the falls, and don't forget to purchase a Wisconsin State Park vehicle admission sticker.

Big Manitou Falls is a breathtaking waterfall in Pattison State Park on the Black River. The park is home to one of the highest waterfalls east of the Rocky Mountains, with a drop of 165 feet. The falls can be accessed through hiking trails and viewing platforms, which offer stunning views of the waterfall from various angles.

The park is open year-round, and you can enjoy outdoor activities, including camping, fishing, and picnicking. Also, check out Little Manitou Falls while exploring Pattison State Park - it's not as high, clocking in at 31 feet, but just as beautiful.

Copper Falls State Park, 36764 Copper Falls Rd, Mellen, WI 54546, USA

Ken Leslie/Google Local

Location: Copper Falls State Park

Popularity: Copper Falls State Park is popular, especially on summer weekends and holidays. Visit on weekdays or off-peak times to avoid crowds. Arrive early for parking.

Need To Know Copper Falls State Park has well-maintained trails for viewing the falls and provides amenities like restrooms, picnic areas, and hiking trails. Don't forget your Wisconsin state park vehicle admission sticker.

Copper Falls State Park is located near the western edge of the Penokee-Gogebic Mineral Range. This range is a ridge of rock formations that spans 80 miles from Ashland County to Lake Gogebic in Michigan's Upper Peninsula. The park boasts many scenic attractions, including waterfalls, rugged gorges, and pristine wilderness, making it a must-visit destination.

The highlight is the beautiful Copper Falls, where the Bad River cascades through a series of canyons and waterfalls. You can take the 1.7-mile Doughboys Trail that loops around the park's two largest waterfalls, Copper Falls and Brownstone Falls, with a few stair climbs and descents.

Also, don't miss the 65-foot observation tower, providing fantastic views of the surrounding forest.

Advertisement

Potato River Falls, Gurney, WI 54559, USA

Northerngirlnomore/Tripadvisor

Location: Gurney, WI

Popularity: Potato River Falls is less crowded compared to larger parks like Pattison or Copper Falls but can still attract visitors, especially during summer weekends. Overall, it offers a quieter experience.

Need To Know Access to the falls is relatively easy with parking nearby.

Potato River Falls is a famous tourist attraction located in Gurney. It consists of both upper and lower falls. The Upper Falls, which are about 18 feet tall, are easily accessible through a short trail from the parking lot.

On the other hand, the main attraction, the Lower Falls (seen in the picture above), is located about half a mile downstream and is known for its impressive 90-foot drop. The area surrounding the falls is surrounded by lush forests and a rocky riverbed, making it an ideal place for hiking, camping, and picnicking.

Advertisement

Superior Falls, Saxon, WI 54559, USA

Brandon Gleadon/AllTrails

Location: Saxon, WI

Popularity: Superior Falls is a popular destination.

Need To Know The falls can be accessed from both the Wisconsin and Michigan sides of the Montreal River. Each side offers different views of the falls, so you may want to explore both.

Superior Falls is a stunning waterfall located on the Montreal River, which forms the boundary between Iron County, Wisconsin, and Gogebic County, Michigan. The falls drop an impressive 90 feet before the Montreal River flows into Lake Superior at Oronto Bay.

This place is a popular tourist spot that provides breathtaking views of the waterfall and its surroundings. Visitors can take a hike along the river to get a closer look at the falls or enjoy a picnic in the nearby park. The area is also known for its fishing and kayaking. Superior Falls is one of the tallest and most beautiful waterfalls in Wisconsin!

Best Waterfall Hikes In Wisconsin

Looking for the best waterfall hikes in Wisconsin? Explore trails that take you to cascades, like Willow Falls, Morgan Falls, and Amnicon Falls State Park Trails. What could be better than that?

Willow Falls, Hudson, WI 54016, USA

Korrine Bumala/AllTrails

Location: Willow River State Park

Popularity: Willow Falls is very popular, especially on weekends and holidays. It can get busy, but arriving early or visiting on weekdays can help avoid crowds.

Need To Know Expect crowds, especially on busy days. Arrive early to secure parking near the trailhead, where basic facilities like restrooms and picnic areas are available. Remember, a Wisconsin State Park System vehicle admission sticker is required.

The Willow Falls and Nelson Farm Trail Loop is a moderate hiking trail in Hudson, approximately six miles long. The trail offers views of the Willow River, with several highlights along your trek.

One of the main attractions is the 45-foot Willow Falls, which is a beautiful sight to see and a great spot for taking photos. Other highlights of the trail include scenic overlooks, picturesque bridges, and a variety of wildlife, including deer, birds, and other small animals.

Morgan Falls, Marengo, WI 54855, USA

Jacob Ainsworth/AllTrails

Location: Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest (Peter's Dome Recreation Area)

Popularity: Morgan Falls and St. Peter's Dome Trail are popular but less crowded compared to well-known attractions. Weekdays and off-peak seasons offer a quieter experience for visitors.

Need To Know The trailhead is accessible by car, with parking and restrooms available nearby. There is a fee for a day-use pass for this recreation site. Bring water and snacks, as amenities may be limited along the trail.

The Morgan Falls and St. Peter's Dome Trail is a 3.3 hiking trail that offers spectacular views of the Chequamegon National Forest. The trailhead for the Morgan Falls and St. Peter's Dome Trail is located at the end of Forest Road 187.

The trail starts with a gentle incline that leads to Morgan Falls, a stunning 20-foot waterfall. From there, the trail continues through the forest and climbs up to St. Peter's Dome, the highest point in the area. From the top, you can see for miles and miles - and on a clear day, you can even see Lake Superior in the distance.

Related Stories

I Discovered An Incredibly Unique Waterfall Hike In Wisconsin Near Washburn

Explore Waterfalls, Scenic Bridges, And Trails In One Day When You Visit This Local Park In Wisconsin

The Secret Waterfall In Northern Wisconsin That Most People Don’t Know About

Amnicon Falls State Park, 4279 County Rd U, South Range, WI 54874, USA

TheCatalyst31, CC0, via Wikimedia Commons

Location: Amnicon Falls State Park

Popularity: Amnicon Falls State Park trails are less crowded than larger parks but can get busy on weekends and holidays, especially in summer. For a quieter visit, weekdays or off-peak seasons are better options.

Need To Know Arrive early for parking, pack essentials, and don't forget your Wisconsin State Park sticker.

Amnicon Falls State Park spans 850 acres and showcases four waterfalls: Upper, Lower, Now & Then, and Snake Pit Falls. Upper (shown in the picture above) and Lower Falls are the main attractions, with impressive 20-foot cascades. Horton Bridge, a unique 55-foot covered bridge, spans the river above Lower Falls.

You can explore the Amnicon River and the island via trails. The park also provides a scenic picnic area with shaded tables and barbecue grills. It's a recommended destination for families seeking some adventure!

Accessible Waterfalls In Wisconsin (No Hiking Required)

Explore WI’s accessible waterfalls, including Strong Falls, Wilke Glen’s Cascade Falls, and Long Slide Falls. These natural wonders require no hiking, offering picturesque settings and serene surroundings for a peaceful day trip or nature retreat.

15201 Goodman Park Rd, Athelstane, WI 54104, USA

Nicole Herrick/Google Local

Location: Goodman County Park

Popularity: During peak seasons like summer weekends, it may see higher foot traffic, while quieter times might occur on weekdays or during colder months.

Need To Know Visitors can opt for a day-use pass for a one-time entry fee or purchase an annual Marinette County sticker for unlimited access to county parks for a year.

Marinette County, also known as the Waterfalls Capital of Wisconsin, is renowned for its stunning waterfalls. It boasts a total of 14 waterfalls, each more beautiful than the last! Fortunately, there is one waterfall that does not require any hiking - Strong Falls.

Located within Goodman Park, Strong Falls is easily accessible on the Peshtigo River. It offers a range of amenities, such as a scenic bridge, walkways, picnic areas, and a playground. With its picturesque setting featuring large rock backgrounds, Strong Falls is perfect for those who wish to check out some falls without engaging in a strenuous hike.

Advertisement

Wilke Glen and Cascade Falls, 101 N Cascade St, Osceola, WI 54020, USA

johndsal/Tripadvisor

Location: Osceola, WI

Popularity: Cascade Falls in Osceola is popular, especially on weekends and in the warmer months. However, crowds are usually manageable.

Need To Know The waterfall is easily accessible from a nearby parking area, requiring minimal walking. Arrive early to secure a spot.

Cascade Falls, located in downtown Osceola, Wisconsin, offers a unique and easily accessible waterfall experience. Unlike many other waterfalls in the area that require hiking to reach - Cascade Falls is just steps away from Cascade Street, allowing hikers to enjoy its beauty without any strenuous activity. Situated within Wilke Glen, the falls can be accessed via a staircase leading down into the glen.

As you descend, you'll be greeted by the picturesque 25-foot waterfall carved out by the St. Croix River. While exploring the area, you can walk right up to the falls and even venture behind the cascading water for a closer look. With its convenient location and stunning scenery, Cascade Falls is a must-see destination for anyone seeking some nature amidst the charming streets of Osceola.

Long Slide Falls County Park, Pembine, WI 54156, USA

Ray Straub/AllTrails

Location: Long Slide Falls County Park

Popularity: Long Slide Falls is popular on weekends and in warmer months but is generally less crowded than more famous attractions. Consider visiting on weekdays or during off-peak times for a quieter experience.

Need To Know The waterfall is easily accessible from nearby parking, but it fills up fast. Arrive early to secure a spot.

Accessible to all skill levels, Long Slide Falls in Pembine offers a quick and rewarding adventure. Just a brief stroll from the parking area, the short but steep quarter-mile trail leads to the base of the falls, where visitors can marvel at the impressive 50-foot cascade.

Alternatively, an easier outlook above the falls provides stunning vistas for those seeking a more leisurely experience. With nearby parking available, this hidden waterfall in Wisconsin promises a memorable waterfall excursion suitable for hikers of all ages.

Best Waterfalls near Green Bay

Discover Green Bay‘s top falls, from hidden gems in county parks to easily accessible cascades just outside the city.

Big Falls County Park, 600 Big Falls Forest Rd, Eau Claire, WI 54703, USA

Linda Draw/Google Local

Location: Big Falls County Park

Popularity: Big Falls in Big Falls County Park is popular on weekends and holidays in summer but quieter than other spots. Aim for weekdays or off-peak times.

Need To Know The waterfall is easily accessible from designated viewing areas, but parking fills up quickly during peak times. Basic amenities like restrooms and picnic areas are available in the park.

Big Falls is a gorgeous waterfall located about an hour away from Green Bay. The waterfall is in Big Falls County Park, which offers hiking trails, picnic areas, some wonderful soft sand areas, and other recreational activities.

The waterfall itself drops about 10-15 feet and is a popular spot. The park is open year-round with a small admission fee, making it a great destination for a day trip or weekend getaway.

Wequiock Falls County Park, 3426 Bay Settlement Rd, Green Bay, WI 54311, USA

Alan Granger/Google Local

Location: Wequiock Falls County Park

Popularity: Wequiock Falls County Park in Wisconsin is moderately busy and popular, particularly during peak seasons and weekends. As one of the few waterfalls easily accessible from the road in the area, it attracts visitors looking for a quick nature fix.

Need To Know Roadside park with picnic tables, drinking water, and restrooms.

Wequiock Falls is a picturesque waterfall just north of Green Bay. It's situated within Wequiock Falls County Park, making it easily accessible from the city. The park is only about a 15-minute drive from downtown Green Bay, making it a convenient destination for locals and visitors alike.

The waterfall itself is a 25-foot waterfall formed by the Niagara Escarpment. You can enjoy views from an observation deck and venture downstairs into the gorge for close-up sights. Fed by Wequiock Creek, the waterfall's flow varies with the seasons, creating different experiences year-round, from a steady flow in spring to striking ice structures in winter.

The pool beneath the falls fluctuates in size, providing opportunities for splashing around. Overall, Wequiock Falls offers an escape into nature right on the doorstep of Green Bay.

Brown County WI Fonferek's Glen, 2825 Dutchman Rd, Green Bay, WI 54311, USA

Chad Anglemyer/Google Maps

Location: Green Bay, WI

Popularity: Fonferek's Glen in Brown County, Wisconsin, is moderately busy and popular, especially during peak seasons and weekends.

Need To Know The 74-acre nature park includes dolomite cliffs, a creek, native trees, and other natural features.

Fonferek's Glen is a stunning natural area located in Brown County, Wisconsin. The highlight of the park is a 30-foot waterfall, which can be easily seen from a designated area just a short 100-yard walk from the parking lot. You can also get closer to the falls, making it the perfect spot to splash around, especially on warm summer days.

Fonferek's Glen is conveniently located just a 15-minute drive from Green Bay, making it an easy day trip for those visiting the area. The Glen is open year-round and offers a unique experience even in winter when the falls freeze over. However, the park is most beautiful in the spring and summer months when the vegetation is in full bloom. Overall, Fonferek's Glen is a must-see for anyone visiting Brown County or the Green Bay area.

Have you been to any of these spots? Think they are some of the best “waterfalls near me“? Let me know – I’d love to hear what you think!

If you’re planning a road trip to these places and need a place to stay for a night or two, consider these vacation rentals!

And if you’re looking for even more waterfalls to explore, check out one of the best waterfalls in WI, the Lost Creek Falls in Cornucopia. Need more? How about Upson Falls or Interstate Falls, located in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan right on the border of Northern Wisconsin?

Explore 9 Of Wisconsin’s Best Waterfalls On This Weekend Road Trip