Wisconsin is renowned for its severe, snowy winters, but as the snow melts and the streams fill up, the state transforms into a natural wonderland of waterfalls.
The flowing Wisconsin waterfalls, nestled between Lake Superior and Lake Michigan, are a must-see. These flowing waterfalls are created by snowmelt and stream out in the late summer, so go out early to discover them.
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These are Wisconsin's most stunning waterfalls.
1. Manitou Falls
Manitou Falls is Wisconsin's biggest waterfall, and the fourth tallest in the United States east of the Rocky Mountains is 165 feet tall. Big Manitou, which is as tall as Niagara Falls (and probably nearly as spectacular), and Little Manitou, a 30-foot plume close upstream, are the two distinct waterfalls.
The falls are open all year and are located inside Pattison State Park, so you can marvel at the frozen water crystals in the winter and enjoy the rushing streams in the summer. Within the park, the observation area is simple to locate, and there are many picnic sites where you may spend a day beside Manitou Falls.
Manitou Falls is also near to Superior and the beaches of Lake Superior, allowing you to make a weekend out of your visit. There's no lack of lakefront entertainment in this part of Wisconsin, with festivals and boat rentals.
Superior, Wisconsin 54880
2. Amnicon Falls
Amnicon Falls, located near Superior and in the center of Amnicon Falls State Park, has become a popular tourist and local destination. This magnificent cascade is made up of four waterfalls: the Upper and Lower Amnicon Falls, Now and Then Falls, and Snake Pit Falls.
On a hot summer day, the higher falls offer a swimming area in the pool below. For photographers and daydreamers both, a bridge over the Amnicon River offers the ideal vantage position. You will not be disappointed with Amnicon Falls, no matter what you choose to do there.
Many visitors to Amnicon Falls camp nearby, with the sounds of rushing water and misty spray providing a pleasant break from the city. The state park is located approximately seven miles east of Superior, and there is a small entrance charge.
South Range, WI 54874 is located at 4279 County Highway U.
3. Potato River Falls
Potato River Falls is another of Wisconsin's breathtaking waterfalls, with its upper and lower falls combining to drop a total of 90 feet, making it one of the state's highest. While the greatest time to see rushing waters is in the spring, seeing Potato Falls in the autumn is definitely a must, when the surrounding tree leaves turn brilliant hues.
Stop at the observation deck in the parking lot for an excellent view of the falls, or take a short walk down to the gorge below for a closer look. The paths go to both the higher and lower falls, although they may be difficult for novices to navigate. For a more relaxed vacation, visitors may camp nearby.
Potato River Falls, in the town of Gurney in the northern section of the state, is a must-see for anybody visiting the region. It's a must-see on a Wisconsin waterfall road trip, with many more beautiful waterfalls nearby.
Gurney, Wisconsin 54559
4. Falls of Lost Creek
This tiny, peaceful sequence of waterfalls draws visitors seeking a peaceful respite from their hectic lives. Lost Creek Falls is a 15-foot waterfall that falls over a mossy cave wall that tourists may explore behind.
The 2.2-mile round-trip walk to Lost Creek Falls means fewer people and more spots to explore along the route. The falls are located on a remote path near Cornucopia, making it a true Wisconsin hidden treasure.
Trail Drive off County Road C, only a few miles south of Cornucopia, leads to the trailhead for Lost Creek Falls. The falls are the perfect place to unwind after a weekend spent on the lake or in town.
Cornucopia, Wisconsin 54827
5. Upson Falls
Upson Falls is one of many prominent Wisconsin waterfalls in the northern area known as Iron County that anybody visiting should add to their bucket list. This 50-foot-wide waterfall flows down mossy rocks, creating a one-of-a-kind and breathtaking scene.
Upson Falls is an 18-foot waterfall that falls into the Potato River north of Upson. Enjoy a picnic at the water's edge, or stay the night at the adjacent campground, which is first come, first-served.
Iron County is home to the state's most waterfalls, including the top ten highest. Make a day of it by visiting the falls in this area, starting with Upson Falls and then moving on to Little Balsam Falls, Wild Wren Falls, and Foster Falls.
9564 Upson Park Rd, Upson, Wisconsin 54565
6. Granite Quarry Falls
This Wisconsin favorite has a historic site as well as a series of waterfalls. The materials for Ulysses S. Grant's mausoleum in New York City came from the Montello quarry, which is no longer in use. The quarry is now a quiet park in the center of Montello, Wisconsin, a few miles north of Madison.
While a fence surrounds the falls, there are still excellent overlook places to snap beautiful photos and enjoy the falls that flow over multicolored granite rocks.
The falls are located in the heart of Montello and are extremely accessible. Even though they are man-made wonders rather than natural occurrences, they are nonetheless magnificent sights that you should not miss.
Montello, WI 53949 is located at the intersection of Highway 23 and Highway 22.
7. Long Slide Falls
Long Slide Falls is one of Wisconsin's most beautiful waterfalls, named for the unusual manner the falls flow into the Pemebonwon River. As the falls cascade down 50 feet of carved rock formations, forming a "long slide" of cascading water, marvel and appreciate.
Wear appropriate footwear and be prepared to traverse rough and steep paths if you want a close look at these magnificent falls. If you're not up for a strenuous hike, the falls are nevertheless spectacular from afar.
Long Slide Falls, part of the Lake Michigan Watershed, is situated in Long Slide Falls County Park and may be reached by a short walk from Morgan Park, just north of Pembine. Smalley Falls, a neighboring magnificent waterfall, is also accessible through a short half-mile walk.
Niagara, Wisconsin 54151
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