We told you about how great Amnicon Falls State Park is when we gave you this awesome Wisconsin waterfalls road trip, but there’s actually so much more to see there than just the falls. This area of Wisconsin is rich with history – millions and billions of years of it. Definitely take time to appreciate and enjoy the waterfalls, but make sure you read up on the history of the area and then go looking for the signs of that history throughout the park. You’re going to love this waterfall hiking trail in Wisconsin.

There are more than two miles of hiking trails through this state park way up north and those trails help you discover amazing scenery and proof of a world we can barely even imagine today.
Flickr/The Cut
The best part of the park is that it showcases quite a few different periods and geological movements and you'll see evidence of so much history here.
Flickr/I.hilsheim
This park sits on what is known as Douglas Fault. This fault line triggered earthquakes more than half a billion years ago.
Flickr/Ian Carvell
The dark basalt of the upper falls is actually remnants of billion-year-old lava that flowed in the area from ancient volcanoes.
Flickr/Jim Bacon
About 500 million years ago, The bedrock south of the fault slowly moved upward and you can see the remnants of that.
Flickr/WIDNR
Fast forward a few million years and Wisconsin was basically a big ocean. The splintered layers you see are sandstone from silt that was deposited by rivers that flowed into this ocean.
Flickr/Amy Bayer

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The Amnicon River has undermined some of the sandstone, creating some amazing cliffs and smooth spots.
Flickr/WIDNR
More recently (relatively) glaciers moved through this area, bringing different types of rocks and silt, including granite from Canada.
Flickr/Jim Bacon
As the winter turns to spring, the runoff turns the river and falls brown, giving the whole area a totally different look.
Flickr/Randen Pedersen
As the glacier melted, the land started to form as we know know it today. As the waters receded, holes and gorges were worn in the sandstone and they show up when the river levels run low.
Flickr/Al Thomas
Walking through this park will help transport you to a different time in this very same place because you'll see the evidence of that other time.
Flickr/Jim Bacon
What is more unique than being able to see a billion years, a half a billion years, and a million years of history right there at your fingertips?
Flickr/WIDNR
It's easy to see why Amnicon Falls is one of the best state parks in Wisconsin. You'll find this beautiful oasis at 4279 S County Road U, South Range, WI 54874.

Have you explored Amnicon Falls State Park yet and taken this waterfall hiking trail in Wisconsin? Where’s your favorite place to see Wisconsin nature?

Looking for more waterfalls in Wisconsin? Check out these 11 gorgeous hiking trails!

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waterfall hiking trail in Wisconsin

Elisa Regulski | November 26, 2019

What are the best hiking trails in Wisconsin?

The Ice Age Trail is one of only 11 national scenic trails in the United States, so you know it’s full of spellbinding views. Yes, this hiking path is 1,000 miles long, but there are dozens of little segments you can explore. This blissful terrain will keep you coming back for more. There’s always something new to discover. For a different kind of hiking trail, head to Horicon Marsh, the largest freshwater cattail marsh in the country! Here, visitors can stroll along a peaceful boardwalk path and search for wildlife. You’ll love every second of this unique adventure. To learn more about Wisconsin’s best hiking trails, read our article here.

Where are the best waterfalls in Wisconsin?

Big Manitou Falls is one of the best waterfalls in Wisconsin. This magnificent force of nature stands at 165 feet tall, and it’s the state’s largest waterfall! Head to Superior, Wisconsin and experience the majestic beauty for yourself. Saxon Falls is another must-visit waterfall in Wisconsin. This natural attraction isn’t as tall as Big Manitou, but it’s still enchanting. You’ll love looking at this 90-foot-tall cascade of water. Still looking for a nature-filled adventure? The best way to experience waterfalls in Wisconsin is by embarking on this exciting road trip.

What are the best state parks in Wisconsin?

There are so many amazing state parks in Wisconsin. Devil's Lake State Park is one of the most spectacular. Bring the whole family and enjoy the tranquil views. If you loved this, then you’ll also want to explore Council Grounds State Park in Merrill. No matter which state park you visit, you’re certain to have an incredible time.

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