If you’ve ever searched online for “waterfalls near me in Wisconsin,” you know there are tons of fantastic falls in the Badger State. You’ll find everything from easily-accessible falls to hiking trails with waterfalls in Wisconsin. Flowing cascades make for more than idyllic hiking destinations, though. They also provide the perfect backdrop for a picturesque picnic. The best part of all is that you don’t have to waste another second searching for “waterfalls near me.” We’ve already done that. All you have to do is pack up some grub, hop in the car, and make the tough decision of which waterfall to dine at first.

1. Granite Quarry Falls, Montello
Daggett Memorial, 11-31 E Montello St, Montello, WI 53949, USA
Flickr/Jimmy Emerson DVM
Though man-made, Granite Quarry Falls in Wisconsin were once rapids of the Montello River and harnessed to power machinery. The granite from this quarry made Grant's Tomb in New York. Sit in the peaceful surroundings and enjoy a cool break away from the city with a picnic here.
2. Parfrey's Glen, Baraboo
Parfreys Glen, Merrimac, WI 53561, USA
Flickr/Nick Olejniczak
This is THE picnic choice if you want to indulge in some people-watching. One of the most popular spots in the state, Parfrey’s Glen in Wisconsin is gorgeous, though, not particularly peaceful. But that might be your thing, and as Wisconsin's first state natural area, it should really be on every resident's bucket list.
3. Lost Creek Falls, Cornucopia
Lost Creek Falls, Lost Creek Number One, Cornucopia, WI 54827, USA
Flickr/Michael Leland
Bayfield is known for a lot of things, but few folks know the area is home to the breathtakingly beautiful Lost Creek Falls. You'll need to hike a bit through some forest to reach this waterfall, so plan your picnic accordingly. But the trek is worth it, as it leads to a spot that's both scenic and secluded. You can even walk behind the waterfall. It's truly the perfect place to spend some peaceful time away from the hype of the city.
4. Upson Falls, Upson
Upson Falls campground, 9564 Upson Park Rd, Upson, WI 54565, USA
Flickr/chumlee10
Iron County has many of the state's tallest waterfalls, but Upson Falls are less well-known, making them far less busy than some of the others in the area. They have "first-come, first-served" campgrounds and are an awesome place to spend a few hours — or the night.

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5. Dave's Falls, Amberg
Dave's Falls, Amberg, WI 54102, USA
Flickr/Ryan Wick
There are about a dozen waterfalls in Marinette County, but Dave’s Falls in Wisconsin is super easy to access, is in a park with tons of amenities, and folks can dip their toes in the river that feeds the falls, making it a perfect day trip location.
6. Siskiwit Falls, Cornucopia
22475 State Hwy 13, Cornucopia, WI 54827, USA
Travel Wisconsin
Also among the few waterfalls in the Bayfield area, Siskiwit Falls in Wisconsin is created by a series of gradual slides. Less than a mile later, the river flows into Lake Superior. Take some time away from all the other tourists and treat yourself to a calming afternoon by these falls.
7. Cascade Falls, Osceola
101 N Cascade St, Osceola, WI 54020, USA
Flickr/Scott Taylor
Accessing Cascade Falls in Wisconsin requires trekking down a long set of stairs, so keep that in mind when planning who might join you on your picnic at this waterfall. The creek that forms Cascade Falls meets up with the St. Croix River not far downstream and your day could include a hike to that point. There are two falls in Osceola, and they're likely the reason the city was settled. They supported a mill and a brewery at one point in time. Cascade Falls is situated down in a bit of a valley, so hit the stairs to take it in and then enjoy the park, the bluff-top views, and more.
8. Stephens Falls, Dodgeville
4175 WI-23, Dodgeville, WI 53533, USA
Flickr/Josh Haroldson
Parfrey's Glen is the more well-known waterfall in this part of the state, but less than an hour away in Governor Dodge State Park is Stephens Falls. The hike to reach it is just one-half mile. There's a scenic overlook, stone steps, and way fewer tourists than you'll find at Parfrey's Glen. Governor Dodge has more than 5,000 acres, so there's so much to see and explore before or after your lunch by the falls.
9. Kletzsch Park, Glendale
6560 N Milwaukee River Pkwy, Glendale, WI 53209, USA
Flickr/Nick Bragg
This one might be cheating a bit, but it's a good option for folks in Milwaukee looking for a little nature and relaxation without having to travel. This dam on the Milwaukee River creates a small cascade that brings all the soothing sounds of a traditional waterfall. The park is huge, with a play area, plenty of picnic spots, athletic fields, and more to keep you busy.

So, what do you think? Does this satisfy your search for “waterfalls near me in Wisconsin”? Ever visited – or picnicked – at the waterfalls mentioned above? Which treks do you think are the best waterfall hikes in Wisconsin? Whatever it is, tell us!

Looking for more cascades to visit? Don’t forget about Big Manitou Falls in Wisconsin. At a towering 165 feet in height, it’s the tallest waterfall in Wisconsin, making it a must-see.

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More to Explore

Waterfalls Near Me

Daniella DiRienzo | April 04, 2022

Are there any other waterfalls near me in Wisconsin?

When seeking “waterfalls near me in Wisconsin,” you won’t be disappointed. There are lots of idyllic cascades in the Badger State including Willow Falls in Wisconsin. The highlight of Willow Falls State Park, the 3-tiered waterfall is a popular swim spot and can be accessed via several trails. The easiest of the three trails, the Willow Falls Hill Trail is less than one mile, making for a quick trek with a big pay-off.

What are the best waterfall hikes in Wisconsin?

The trek to Fonferek’s Glen Falls is definitely among the best waterfall hikes in Wisconsin. The lovely 30-foot waterfall is nestled within Fonferek’s Glen County Park in Ledgeview. Easily accessible, a half-mile loop trail begins and ends at Fonferek’s Glen Falls. The waterfall alone is enough reason to visit Fonferek’s Glen County park, but it’s not the only reason. The 74-acre park is brimming with idyllic sights, including limestone cliffs and a stone archway.

Aside from hiking trails with waterfalls in Wisconsin, what are some other unique treks in the Badger State?  

Hiking trails with waterfalls aren’t the only notable treks in Wisconsin. There are lots more, including the hike at Pier Natural Bridge State Park in Richland Center. The highlight of the park is a huge, half-mile-long sandstone formation, known as a finger. Park-goers are treated to exceptional views of the rocky formation, thanks to a man-made tunnel that goes right through it! The tunnel is part of a short loop trail, which begins near the parking lot.

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