A lot of Wisconsin is flat and covered in crops. But there are some amazing natural wonders hiding right under your nose in Wisconsin! We’re talking hills, bluffs, caves…all hiding in Wisconsin! It’s not too late to take a weekend trip and check out one of these beautiful places.
1. Apostle Islands
The Apostle Islands national park is a grouping or "archipelago" of 21 wilderness islands. The islands dot Lake Superior, and provide more than a dozen miles of shoreline. You will find some of the most pristine remaining sandscapes in this area. You can see everything from old-growth forests to sea caves.
2. Devil's Lake State Park
Chances are that you have visited Devil’s Lake State Park, not far from Wisconsin Dells. It is the most visited state park in Wisconsin, with hundreds of thousands of visitors annually. There is a 360-acre spring-fed lake with 500-foot bluffs overlooking it. And there are thirty miles of trails where you can explore. This geologic wonder was apparently created 1.6 billion years ago. We're looking forward to 1.6 billion more!
3. Big Manitou Falls
If you love waterfalls, you should see the granddaddy of them all: Big Manitou Falls. It is 165-feet tall. You can find it in Pattison State Park near Superior. It is the fourth tallest waterfall east of the Rocky Mountains. The water comes from the Black River.
4. Cave of the Mounds
Cave of the Mounds (Blue Mounds) is a "National Natural Landmark." The main cave started to form more than a million years ago. The cave was accidentally discovered in 1939 by workers--who were amazed by what they found! Dynamite revealed this incredible underground cavern.
5. Chain o' Lakes
Chain o'Lakes is a series of 28 interconnected lakes in Wisconsin. While the lakes themselves are natural, human beings connected them for the purpose of navigability. The lakes cross a couple of counties, and they border on beautiful woods that will never be developed. Gorgeous!
6. High Cliff State Park
On the eastern shore of Lake Winnebago, Wisconsin's largest lake, is High Cliff State Park. And in the park is a limestone cliff that is 440 million years old. There are all sorts of unique flora and fauna, caves, waterfalls, and petroglyphs. It is truly amazing.
7. Horicon Marsh
Horicon Marsh gets the distinction of being the largest cattail marsh in the country. It is located in southeastern Wisconsin, and it is the home to almost 290 species of birds. Canada geese, especially, love this place. The best way to enjoy this place is by canoe or kayak. If you choose to stay on land, make sure to bring a pair of binoculars.
8. Brule River
The Brule River is a gorgeous 52 mile river that separates part of Michigan and Wisconsin. It is fantastic to get out on the river, especially if you are seeking trout. You can get some wonderful vantage points of the river without even getting out on the water.
9. Devil's Punchbowl
In Menomonie, Devil's Punchbowl awaits you. It is a gorgeous sandstone gorge. It is serene, and fun for kids and adults alike to explore. People have reportedly seen gnomes here...so enjoy that.
10. Timms Hill
Timms Hill is the tallest natural point in all of Wisconsin, and, as you can see, affords some of the most beautiful views from its observation tower. It is as 1951 feet above sea level. People enjoy climbing and hiking here. There are also several short trails to walk in case you are not into hiking much but still want to enjoy. Head out to Ogema.
Isn’t our great state beautiful? If you’ve take any awesome photos of these sites, be sure to share them on the Only in Wisconsin Facebook page.
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