Best waterfalls in Wisconsin hidden among forests and trails: What we know so far

Wisconsin’s waterfalls are primarily in the northern region along scenic forest trails that meander near gorges and cascades, and rivers lined with rocky shores. The more famous of these waterfalls is Big Manitou Falls at 165 feet; others in this league are Amnicon Falls, Copper Falls, and the Potato River Falls. This article contains information on four of these scenic attractions and includes information you will need to know before visiting, including the length of the trails, whether or not there are fees, and what to look out for to remain safe. It is a good idea to confirm conditions and hours by contacting the park directly. Big Manitou Falls: Wisconsin’s Tallest Waterfall

Big Manitou Falls is located in Pattison State Park and drops a total of 165 feet, making it Wisconsin’s highest waterfall. According to the DNR, this ranks it as the fourth-highest waterfall on the eastern side of the Rocky Mountains. Source: Shutterstock

Pattison State Park is located along Highway 35 in Douglas County, 12 miles south of Superior. A 0.5-mile loop main trail leads hikers to some of the best overlooks in the park. Other trails totaling 9 miles cover the rest of the land. Little Manitou Falls is upstream and is about 31 feet high, with a closer vantage point. Martin Pattison bought the land along the Black River in 1917. The land blocked a planned dam that would have created a power plant. Copper Falls and Brownstone Falls near Mellen

Copper Falls State Park is near Mellen and the Bad River, and Tyler Forks create a gorge, which is forested. The 1.7-mile Doughboys Nature Trail loops past Brownstone Falls, Devil’s Gate, Copper Falls, and the Tyler Forks. Brownstone Falls drops about 30 feet into the Tyler Forks River. The loop includes rock stairs and other uneven sections, while a 0.5-mile portion leading to a Copper Falls overlook has a more accessible crushed-granite surface. Pets are not allowed on the Doughboys Nature Trail, so alternative plans should be made for your furry friends. During winter, the trail is not maintained and icy conditions can make the rock stairs hazardous. Portions may close temporarily, so check current Wisconsin DNR trail conditions before visiting.

Amnicon Falls and the Covered Bridge

Amnicon Falls State Park southeast of Superior has several waterfalls connected by short trails. The popular 0.25-mile island trail provides views of Upper Falls, Lower Falls and Snake Pit Falls, with additional river trails extending through the park. Source: Shutterstock

A Horton bowstring bridge at 55 feet spans the river and is the shortest route to the island. Charles Horton received his patent for this design in the late 1890s, and very few of his designs are still standing. Swimming and wading are permitted in the Amnicon River, but there are no designated beaches or lifeguards. Water levels and currents can change quickly, rocks may be slippery, and diving or jumping from rock walls is prohibited. Visitors should remain cautious around all of the falls. Potato River Falls near Gurney

Potato River Falls has a total drop of about 90 feet and is split between an upper and lower falls. The upper and lower falls are in a free park. A gravel road, about a mile from Highway 169, leads to the park. There is a pit toilet at the park, and the lower falls offer a gorgeous view, though the climb back up tests your legs. Visitors should expect a steep outing, with about 131 stairs leading toward the upper falls and 204 steps toward the lower falls. Wet conditions can make the terrain slippery, so use established routes and avoid entering fast-moving water. Fun fact: There are 5 rustic campsites, first come, first served, and for free for up to 2 weeks. Source: Shutterstock

The best time to visit and safety tips

Amnicon Falls State Park is open year-round, and fall color timing varies from year to year. In 2026, the Superior area was forecast to peak later in October, so travelers should check Wisconsin’s current fall-color report rather than relying on a fixed date. Swimming and wading are permitted at Amnicon Falls, but there are no designated beaches or lifeguards, and river conditions can change quickly. A vehicle admission pass is required for motor vehicles entering Wisconsin state parks. Pattison and Amnicon Falls are open from 6 a.m.

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The post Best waterfalls in Wisconsin hidden among forests and trails appeared first on When In Your State.

to 11 p.m. year-round, although individual trails or facilities can close because of weather, maintenance or hazardous conditions. Wear sturdy footwear, use designated trails and overlooks, and check Wisconsin DNR or county updates for high water, ice, construction or temporary closures before visiting. A Weekend’s Worth of Waterfalls in Northwest Wisconsin

Amnicon Falls is a good first stop. It has a short, nice loop that you can easily do in the morning. Next, head to Pattison State Park, about 30 minutes away, to check out Big Manitou Falls. If you want to camp, Pattison has 59 sites. Day two takes you through Mellen and Gurney and the Bad River area. You’ll want to hit Doughboys Nature Trail at Copper Falls first because it’s a long loop. Finish up the day at Potato River Falls, which is about 12 miles away. There’s time to do the stairs there before heading back to your lodging for the night. TL;DR

Big Manitou Falls at Pattison State Park is 165 feet tall and the tallest in Wisconsin. The 1.7-mile Doughboys Trail at Copper Falls State Park takes you by a couple of falls and Devil’s Gate. Amnicon Falls State Park’s 0.25-mile island trail provides views of Upper, Lower and Snake Pit Falls near its historic covered bridge. Potato River Falls is about 90 feet and is a couple of tiers, and is a free, county-maintained park. Pets are not allowed at Doughboys Trail, and Wisconsin State Parks require a vehicle sticker/day use pass. Nice fall colors are to be seen in early to mid October, but high water and wet rocks can make all falls dangerous. Pair Amnicon, Pattison, Copper Falls, and Potato River Falls into a two-day, northwest Wisconsin loop. If you liked this, you might also like:

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The post Best waterfalls in Wisconsin hidden among forests and trails appeared first on When In Your State.