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    Guilty as charged. Guilty as charged.
    Romanticizing my 5 hour flight in a tiny plane.✨ Romanticizing my 5 hour flight in a tiny plane.✨

This flight was actually so smooth. We had great weather, and — more importantly — WiFi.

You could say the flight ~flew~ by.

We spent about 5 hours flying from northeast Wisconsin to Cheyenne, Wyoming, for my uncle’s Air Force Change Of Command.

Would you fly cross country in a tiny plane? ✈️
    Testing his patience one vertical video at a time. Testing his patience one vertical video at a time.🫡
    10 non-negotiable USA national parks to visit this 10 non-negotiable USA national parks to visit this summer!

When I started visiting the national parks, I quickly realized that many national parks are seasonal. While the park entrances and overlooks may be open year-round, there are definitely better and worse times to visit some of them.

For example, if you try going to the mountains in fall through early spring, some of the hiking trails and roads will be closed due to snow.

On the flip side, if you try going to the desert in summer, you’ll be battling that fatal heat.

So, these are 10 of the best US national parks to visit in summer!

Share this with your road trip buddy to drop a subtle hint. 🚗

#usaroadtrip #usatravel #usroadtrip #roadtripusa #nationalparksusa
    He looked me dead in the eye and said, “Not arou He looked me dead in the eye and said, “Not around here partner… Not around here.”
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Northern Wisconsin Waterfalls You Need To Visit

By: Indigo Sahara, M.A. | Published: July 5, 2023 | Updated: November 22, 2023

Whether you’re a hobby hiker or prefer short walks over steep climbs, there are numerous northern Wisconsin waterfalls that will fit your physical needs and fill your wanderlust.

Northern Wisconsin Waterfalls You Need To Visit

Here is everything you need to know about six of the best waterfalls in northern Wisconsin.

Northern Wisconsin Waterfalls You Need To Visit

Table of Contents

Toggle
  • Northern Wisconsin Waterfalls Map
  • Northern Wisconsin Waterfalls
  • Waterfalls In Wisconsin You Can Swim In
  • Things To Do Near Northern Wisconsin Waterfalls
  • Save These Northern Wisconsin Waterfalls

Northern Wisconsin Waterfalls Map

Northern Wisconsin Waterfalls

1. Big Manitou Falls

northern wisconsin waterfalls

Location: Superior, Wisconsin
Hike: None
Busy: No
Bugs: Mild-moderate
Recreation: Hiking (trails)
Cost: State park pass required
Overall Rating: 10/10

Big Manitou Falls rages a roaring 165-foot drop from a river-fed lake, making it the tallest waterfall in the state of Wisconsin.

This waterfall is a perfect road trip pit-stop, as it is easily accessible and minimal walking distance from the parking lot. Numerous overview spots give you the opportunity to see the falls from all upper angles, including a rare sighting of the waterfall’s crest.

waterfalls in northern wisconsin
best waterfalls in northern wisconsin

The must-see Manitou ought to be seriously considered for your next casual family outing, date night or on-a-whim adventure with friends.

2. Wilke Glen And Cascade Falls

northern wisconsin waterfalls

Location: Osceola, Wisconsin
Hike: Stairs
Busy: Yes
Bugs: Moderate
Recreation: Perfect for swimming
Overall Rating: 9.5/10

Hidden beneath pleasant downtown Osceola, Cascade Falls and towers over its daily visitors. Greenery spreads upward against the burnt-orange clay canyon, leaving a perfect space for swim and recreation.

The waterfall pours 25 feet over the Earth’s ledge erosion into a large, shallow pool. Because the ledge caves under the falls, you can actually walk under it from the far left side to the far right side of the waterfall. Just be careful not to slip.

Northern Wisconsin Waterfalls You Need To Visit
wisconsin waterfalls

Obviously, the immense beauty and local convenience of Cascade Falls makes for a busy environment. However, the tropical essence of the falls makes the crowd worthwhile.

3. Morgan Falls

wisconsin waterfalls road trips

Location: Mellen, Wisconsin
Hike: 1.2 miles round trip
Busy: No
Bugs: Bring repellant (deer and horse flies)
Recreation: Swimming, climbing, hiking
Cost: $5 for parking
Overall Rating: 9/10

Morgan Falls‘ smooth, flat trail details a picture-worthy walking bridge, a myriad of wildflowers and glittering streams.

The sound of the waterfall peaks through the foliage about 0.5 miles into the hike, creating a fluttery excitement inside you.

wisconsin waterfalls tour
wisconsin waterfalls loop

The cascade falls into a freshwater lagoon ideal for dipping your toes, while 20 feet of neighboring granite offer an entertaining climb.

These remarkable features plus its pleasant vacancy names Morgan Falls the Neverland of the Midwest.

4. Lost Creek Falls

apostle islands wisconsin

Location: Cornucopia, Wisconsin
Hike: 3 miles round trip (hiking/tennis shoes recommended)
Busy: Yes
Bugs: Mild-moderate
Recreation: Swimming, hiking
Overall Rating: 8/10

Lost Creek Falls will have you feeling like a genuine explorer — khaki safari hat and all.

Although the waterfall solicits the lengthiest, muddiest, and most unbalanced hike of this list, the stout gorge and inhabiting waterfall prove worthy of the journey.

At first glance, the water seems murky due to its bright rusty hue, but when you take a closer look, the water is clean and almost therapeutic.

wisconsin travel
things to do in milwaukee wisconsin

The stream rushes over 10 feet of caving red clay, which enables visitors to walk behind the falls and swim in nature’s spa.

For the best swimming experience, explore after a heavy rainfall.

5. Saxon Falls

madison wisconsin things to do in

Location: Saxon, Wisconsin
Hike: 5 minutes
Busy: No
Bugs: Bring repellant (mosquitos)
Recreation: Swimming near hydro station
Overall Rating: 6.5/10

The heightened sight of the upper Saxon Falls is really no match to the powerhouse waterfall that it truly is.

The rapids run from east-to-west while the roaring river echos up the eroded cliffs. A tranquil hike bordering a wooded private property will leave you believing you’re on your way to a medieval cemetery in mountainous Ireland.

Don’t be fooled, though. Once you reach the metal fence, you’ve made it to the main viewing area — even though the trail seems to lead further. Before your disappointment settles in, here’s a secret spot you won’t want to miss.

northern wisconsin waterfalls

Take the first left off of Saxon Falls Road on your drive out. Travel east up the river until you approach the Saxon Falls Hydro Generating Station (the big man-made dam).

Continue by foot past the orange signs that read: “DANGER. Waterfalls immediately ahead.” (Don’t worry, you won’t be trespassing or in immediate danger.)

waterfalls in northern wisconsin
best waterfalls in northern wisconsin

You’ll discover a completely empty and majestic riverbed. Without a trace of humanity for miles, it feels as though you’ve just been plucked out of civilization and gently handed to forestry for care-taking.

Bring your swimsuit and picnic basket for a secluded, romantic, unforgettable evening.

6. Potato River Falls

northern wisconsin waterfalls

Location: Gurney, Wisconsin
Hike: Short walk, many stairs
Busy: Yes
Bugs: Moderate
Recreation: No swimming, no climbing
Overall Rating: 5/10

Coming in at number six, Potato River Falls offers a beautiful view at an interval energy hike.

A short walk away from the forest’s trail head and parking lot, and down a lofty staircase, will bring you to a perfect photo-op view of the falls.

This cascade, shadowed by tall greenery, clearly congests tourists as a popular destination. Despite the busy foot traffic, however, the two upper-fall and one lower-fall viewing areas will seamlessly transport you to a family film from the early 2000s — picture Cheaper by the Dozen 2 or The Parent Trap.

Waterfalls In Wisconsin You Can Swim In

  1. Wilke Glen And Cascade Falls.
  2. Morgan Falls.
  3. Lost Creek Falls.
  4. Saxon Falls.
Northern Wisconsin Waterfalls You Need To Visit

Which northern Wisconsin waterfalls are you most excited to visit? Be sure to check out my guide to the best Wisconsin Instagram spots for more of the state’s most beautiful places to visit.

Things To Do Near Northern Wisconsin Waterfalls

Things To Do On Washington Island All Year Round
21 Wisconsin Instagram Spots For Stunning Photos (With Map)
Wisconsin Instagram Captions You Need To Steal
Pfister Hotel: Everything You Need To Know

Northern Wisconsin Waterfalls You Need To Visit

Save These Northern Wisconsin Waterfalls

Save these northern Wisconsin waterfalls for easy access later by sharing to your socials.

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By: Indigo Sahara, M.A.

About Indigo Sahara, M.A.

Indigo Sahara, M.A., is the founder and CEO of the Indigo Sahara travel blog. Since earning her master's degree in global leadership, she has traveled to more than 20 countries. Now, her goal is to make travel accessible to all by teaching others how to travel on a budget. She writes world travel guides and travel hacking tips weekly.

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Comments

  1. David C Piehl says

    July 30, 2020 at 1:30 am

    Another great article, look forward to your next one!

    Reply
    • Indigo Sahara says

      July 30, 2020 at 4:27 am

      Thank you so much! I’m glad you like it!

      Reply

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  1. Best Fall Drive in Wisconsin: Directions and timing for a fun fall day trip says:
    December 9, 2020 at 11:37 am

    […] Looking for one of Wisconsin’s best, most underrated spring and summer activities? Read everything you need to know about the six top waterfalls in northern Wisconsin. […]

    Reply

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Guilty as charged. Guilty as charged.
Romanticizing my 5 hour flight in a tiny plane.✨ Romanticizing my 5 hour flight in a tiny plane.✨

This flight was actually so smooth. We had great weather, and — more importantly — WiFi.

You could say the flight ~flew~ by.

We spent about 5 hours flying from northeast Wisconsin to Cheyenne, Wyoming, for my uncle’s Air Force Change Of Command.

Would you fly cross country in a tiny plane? ✈️
Testing his patience one vertical video at a time. Testing his patience one vertical video at a time.🫡
10 non-negotiable USA national parks to visit this 10 non-negotiable USA national parks to visit this summer!

When I started visiting the national parks, I quickly realized that many national parks are seasonal. While the park entrances and overlooks may be open year-round, there are definitely better and worse times to visit some of them.

For example, if you try going to the mountains in fall through early spring, some of the hiking trails and roads will be closed due to snow.

On the flip side, if you try going to the desert in summer, you’ll be battling that fatal heat.

So, these are 10 of the best US national parks to visit in summer!

Share this with your road trip buddy to drop a subtle hint. 🚗

#usaroadtrip #usatravel #usroadtrip #roadtripusa #nationalparksusa
He looked me dead in the eye and said, “Not arou He looked me dead in the eye and said, “Not around here partner… Not around here.”

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