27 Best Waterfalls in Wisconsin + Local Hidden Gems

Big Manitou Falls in Wisconsin water cascading on rock surrounded by trees

Visiting waterfalls is a fun way to take in nature and enjoy scenic views. There are many impressive waterfalls you can see throughout the state of Wisconsin. This article will cover some of the best waterfalls in Wisconsin, along with some lesser-known hidden gems. Read on to learn more.

Best Waterfalls in Wisconsin to Visit

Wisconsin State Parks and other local areas have many beautiful waterfalls. The following sections will provide information about the best Wisconsin waterfalls.

1. Amnicon Falls

Located in the beautiful Amnicon Falls State Park, Amnicon Falls is one of the most accessible and easy-to-travel Wisconsin waterfalls. Amnicon Falls consists of both upper and lower falls, with other small unnamed waterfalls in the area as well. This makes this state park an impressive one to visit since there are many different waterfall spots and views within the area. If you’re looking for an unforgettable view, the Horton Bridge is a popular place in the park that overlooks the waterfall. 

  • Location: Amnicon, Wisconsin
  • Difficulty: Easy
  • Length: 0.8-mile walk
  • Entrance Fee: $8 with Wisconsin license plates, $11 with out-of-state plates
  • Swimming: Allowed

2. Snake Pit Falls

Snake Pit Falls makes for a nice quick stop if you want to see multiple waterfalls in a day. Snake Pit Falls is a small waterfall, but it makes for a relaxing experience since it is less heavily trafficked than nearby Amnicon Falls. Those looking for waterfall views in a quiet atmosphere will appreciate this area. It’s also located near Big Manitou Falls and Little Manitou Falls, which are other popular waterfalls. 

  • Location: South Range, Wisconsin
  • Difficulty: Easy
  • Length: 0.6-mile walk
  • Entrance Fee: $8 with Wisconsin license plates, $11 with out-of-state plates
  • Swimming: Not allowed

3. Big Manitou Falls

Big Manitou Falls lives up to its name. It is truly immense because it is the highest waterfall in Wisconsin at 165 feet tall. This big waterfall is a sight to see and one you should put on your bucket list. The 4-mile trail takes you around the Black River and leads up to Big Manitou Falls. The path is relatively flat and easy to navigate, so you shouldn’t have any problems getting around. 

  • Location: Superior, Wisconsin
  • Difficulty: Easy
  • Length: 4-mile walk
  • Entrance Fee: $8 with Wisconsin license plates, $11 with out-of-state plates
  • Swimming: Not allowed

4. Little Manitou Falls

Located in Pattison State Park, Little Manitou Falls is just a few miles away from Big Manitou Falls. This makes it a great opportunity to see both waterfalls in one day. One of the things that make Little Manitou Falls special is that you can get right up close to it, which makes for a spectacular experience. It’s also a much quieter destination than nearby Big Manitou Falls, so it is nice for those looking for a more serene waterfall experience. 

  • Location: Superior, Wisconsin
  • Difficulty: Easy
  • Length: 4-mile walk
  • Entrance Fee: $8 with Wisconsin license plates, $11 with out-of-state plates
  • Swimming: Not allowed

5. Potato Falls ★

The Potato River Falls is located in northern Wisconsin, which is one of the most popular regions of Wisconsin for seeing waterfalls. This is a large waterfall with plenty of opportunities for exploration. If you’re the adventurous type, you’re allowed to go off the beaten path and explore on your own to get different views of the falls. There’s also a place where you can cross the river to get right up close to the falls. However, you should avoid crossing the river in the spring since the water current is very strong during that time of year. 

  • Location: Gurney, Wisconsin
  • Difficulty: Easy
  • Length: 0.8-mile walk
  • Entrance Fee: None
  • Swimming: Not allowed

6. Foster Falls

Foster Falls is a quiet location to enjoy nature and scenic views. It’s very easy to access since no hike is required to see the falls. The waterfall is an interesting sight to see since it appears like a narrow slide traveling down. Whether you’re looking for a quick stop or a nice place to relax, you should check out Foster Falls. 

  • Location: Upson, Wisconsin
  • Difficulty: Easy
  • Length: Negligible
  • Entrance Fee: None
  • Swimming: Not allowed

7. Montello Granite Quarry Waterfalls ★

Mike Kohlbauer

The Montello Granite Quarry Waterfalls are a bit of a hidden gem since it is a lesser-known location within Wisconsin. This area used to be an old granite quarry but has since been turned into Daggett Memorial Park. There are picnic tables around the park where you can take a seat, relax, or have a nice picnic. The falls are a stunning sight and make for a nice outing since there is very low foot traffic here. 

  • Location: Montello, Wisconsin
  • Difficulty: Easy
  • Length: Negligible (Parking area right next to falls)
  • Entrance Fee: None
  • Swimming: Not allowed

8. Copper Falls ★

Copper Falls is a fascinating waterfall to visit with many loops, twists, and turns. It is a multi-tiered waterfall with several drops going along the 1.7-mile path. Many vantage points provide impressive views of deep gorges along the falls. Another benefit of visiting Copper Falls is that it is located in the stunning Copper Falls State Park, one of the best places for camping in Wisconsin.

  • Location: Mellen, Wisconsin
  • Difficulty: Easy
  • Length: 1.7-mile walk
  • Entrance Fee: $8 with Wisconsin license plates, $11 with out-of-state plates
  • Swimming: Not allowed

9. Brownstone Falls

Brownstone Falls is another impressive waterfall located just one-third of a mile downstream from nearby Copper Falls. This is a very scenic waterfall that provides a memorable view that visitors will likely never forget. It’s also a quiet area which makes it nice for relaxation and enjoying the views. 

  • Location: Mellen, Wisconsin
  • Difficulty: Easy
  • Length: 1.7-mile walk
  • Entrance Fee: $8 with Wisconsin license plates, $11 with out-of-state plates
  • Swimming: Not allowed

10. Red Granite Falls

Red Granite Falls is a smaller waterfall that still provides lovely scenic views. It’s located near Copper Falls and Brownstone Falls, which offers an opportunity to see all three waterfalls on the same day. Compared to Copper Falls and Brownstone Falls, Red Granite is much less trafficked and makes for a quieter atmosphere. The trail here is also exceptionally nice since it is well-maintained and wider than the typical waterfall trail. 

  • Location: Mellen, Wisconsin
  • Difficulty: Easy
  • Length: 2.5-mile walk
  • Entrance Fee: $11
  • Swimming: Not allowed

11. Big Smokey Falls

Neal Grosskopf

Big Smokey is a powerful and complicated waterfall that makes for a great adventure. The area around the falls is rocky, which makes it more difficult to navigate. However, there are some nice spots where you can get great views of the falls and large rapids. Rafting at Big Smokey Falls is also a unique and exciting experience. 

  • Location: Keshena, Wisconsin
  • Difficulty: Hard
  • Length: 0.5-mile walk
  • Entrance Fee: None
  • Swimming: Not allowed

12. Morgan Falls

Morgan Falls is a small hidden gem that is less trafficked than other nearby waterfalls. It’s unlikely you’ll encounter many people as you travel the hiking trail around the falls, making for a peaceful atmosphere. The trail is moderately difficult to navigate in parts that make for a challenging and interesting hike. The falls themselves are very scenic and located in a quiet wooded area. 

  • Location: Marengo, Wisconsin
  • Difficulty: Moderate
  • Length: 1.2-mile walk
  • Entrance Fee: $5
  • Swimming: Not allowed

13. Saxon Falls

Saxon Falls is on the Montreal River, which creates a border between Wisconsin and Michigan. It is a nice waterfall to visit as part of a day trip since it is located near Superior Falls and Peterson Falls, which are on the same river. This provides an opportunity to see all three waterfalls in one day. The 1-mile out and back trail leading up to Saxon Falls is easy to travel and has gorgeous views of the entire waterfall. Saxon Falls is an excellent place to visit since it isn’t too heavily trafficked and makes for a quiet atmosphere. 

  • Location: Saxon, Wisconsin
  • Difficulty: Easy
  • Length: 1-mile walk
  • Entrance Fee: None
  • Swimming: Not allowed

14. Peterson Falls

While Peterson Falls is a smaller waterfall, it is much more accessible than nearby Superior and Saxon Falls. Peterson Falls provides scenic views in a quiet area. It’s just a short walk to the falls, making it nice for a quick stop as part of your day trip itinerary. 

  • Location: Hurley, Wisconsin
  • Difficulty: Easy
  • Length: 0.3-mile walk
  • Entrance Fee: No required entrance fee, but there is a suggested donation of $2 per person
  • Swimming: Not allowed

15. Siskiwit Falls

Siskiwit Falls is located along the Siskiwit River, which is a beautiful area to relax and take in nature. As you take the short walk along the river, you will see scenic views of the many drops of this small waterfall. While the trail is just a short walk, it is recommended to exercise caution since the path leading up the falls is more primitive, and there can be few obstacles along the way. The Siskiwit Falls are relatively low in tourist traffic, so it is a nice place to relax and clear your mind from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. 

  • Location: Cornucopia, Wisconsin
  • Difficulty: Moderate
  • Length: 0.3-mile walk
  • Entrance Fee: None
  • Swimming: Not allowed

16. Lost Creek Falls

Lost Creek Falls is a small waterfall but still creates a memorable experience. One of the unique features of Lost Creek Falls is that you can actually walk behind the falls and get close-up views of them. The falls are in a quiet wooded area that provides a relaxing experience full of wildlife. The 2-mile hike up to the falls provides some good exercise and is generally an easy walk other than some roots and branches that cover the trail in spots. 

  • Location: Cornucopia, Wisconsin
  • Difficulty: Moderate
  • Length: 2.2-mile walk
  • Entrance Fee: None
  • Swimming: Not allowed

17. Long Slide Falls

Long Slide Falls is an impressive waterfall that is truly a sight to see. It lives up to its name, appearing like a long slide flowing downwards. Its appearance makes for a unique and memorable waterfall viewing experience. There are many places to explore in the area located around the falls, which gives the unique opportunity to see it from different vantage points. 

  • Location: Niagara, Wisconsin
  • Difficulty: Easy
  • Length: 0.4-mile walk
  • Entrance Fee: $5
  • Swimming: Not allowed

18. Eighteen-Foot Falls

Eighteen Foot Falls is a great experience for those with an adventurous spirit. The falls are 18 feet high and are a beautiful sight to see. While it is just a short half-mile trail leading up to the falls, it is very rugged, making it a challenging hike. However, the primitive nature of the surrounding area allows for full exploration, so you can get different views and have the freedom to roam around as you please. 

  • Location: Dunbar, Wisconsin
  • Difficulty: Hard
  • Length: 0.5-mile walk
  • Entrance Fee: $3
  • Swimming: Not allowed

19. Upson Falls ★

Upson Falls is in a quiet atmosphere that provides a fantastic viewing experience. A natural lookout spot at the end of the short trail near the falls makes for an impressive sight to see. The path has a slight incline, but it is relatively easy to travel, giving easy access to see the waterfall. There is also a picnic area near the trail, making this a nice place to relax and spend the afternoon.

  • Location: Upson, Wisconsin
  • Difficulty: Easy
  • Length: 0.3-mile walk
  • Entrance Fee: None
  • Swimming: Not allowed

20. Cascade Falls

Cascade Falls is located along the St. Croix National Scenic Riverway, a beautiful area with many captivating sights to see. The waterfall itself is very breathtaking and makes for a memorable viewing experience. If you travel further down the St. Croix River, you will see other impressive places, such as the Osceola Bluff and Interstate State Park. 

  • Location: Osceola, Wisconsin
  • Difficulty: Easy
  • Length: 1.1-mile walk
  • Entrance Fee: $2
  • Swimming: Not allowed

21. Willow Falls ★

Willow Falls is located within the beautiful Willow River State Park. It’s one of the most scenic waterfalls in Wisconsin, with breathtaking views in a very relaxing environment. This waterfall appears like a staircase with three main drops right in a row. Many vantage points within the park provide excellent views of the waterfall. It’s also a unique experience because you are allowed to stand and relax in the water at the falls since the water current is slow. 

  • Location: Hudson, Wisconsin
  • Difficulty: Easy
  • Length: 2-mile walk
  • Entrance Fee: $8 with Wisconsin license plates, $11 with out-of-state plates
  • Swimming: Allowed (can get in the water, but it is too shallow for actual swimming)

22. Wequiock Falls

Wequiock Falls is a quiet, scenic waterfall that provides a relaxing viewing experience. It is recommended you visit this waterfall in the spring since the water levels diminish and slow down during summer. However, this waterfall is truly a beautiful sight to see during the spring. There is a bridge that goes above the falls that provides an excellent view. It’s also just a 30-minute drive from Sturgeon Bay, Wisconsin, where some of the best Door County hiking trails are located. 

  • Location: Green Bay, Wisconsin
  • Difficulty: Easy
  • Length: 0.2-mile walk
  • Entrance Fee: None
  • Swimming: Not allowed

23. Fonferek Falls

Fonferek Falls is located in Fonferek’s Glen, a fascinating natural place to explore. Fonferek’s Glen features steep walls over 50 feet tall and an awe-inspiring stone arch. There are many fantastic vantage points to get a view of the falls. Like nearby Wequiock Falls, spring is the best time to visit when the water flows the most heavily. 

  • Location: Green Bay, Wisconsin
  • Difficulty: Easy
  • Length: 1.4-mile walk
  • Entrance Fee: None
  • Swimming: Not allowed

24. Big Eddy Falls ★

@AdventuresZen

The area around Big Eddy Falls is very scenic and peaceful. This waterfall is a hidden gem in Wisconsin since it isn’t well-known or a frequent travel destination. Although it’s called Big Eddy, it’s just a small waterfall at 10 feet high, but it makes for a beautiful sight and place to relax. The short hike to the falls is straightforward, making it very accessible to visitors. 

  • Location: Menominee, Wisconsin
  • Difficulty: Easy
  • Length: 0.2-mile walk
  • Entrance Fee: None
  • Swimming: Not allowed

25. Hungarian Falls [Guided Tour]

To explore another interesting waterfall, check out this Hungarian waterfall tour. The tour provides a guided hike through the Hungarian Falls Nature Area in Keweenaw County, Michigan, which is just across the Wisconsin border. Your expert tour guide will provide insightful information about the area and the waterfalls. 

26. Lasalle Falls

Lasalle Falls is interesting to explore since the surrounding area is kept natural and very primitive. There aren’t fences or railings along the trail, and it is a bit more rugged, making it a tricky hiking experience. However, the primitive nature of this area allows you to explore and find unique vantage points to look out at this scenic waterfall. 

  • Location: Florence, Wisconsin
  • Difficulty: Moderate
  • Length: 1.9-mile walk
  • Entrance Fee: None
  • Swimming: Not allowed

27. Houghton Falls

Houghton Falls is a quiet area to relax and explore without much tourist traffic. Houghton Falls is a state natural area that aims to preserve the surrounding natural environment. You will likely encounter many different types of plants and wildlife as you traverse the short trail to the falls. There is a great area to stand above the falls, which is a scenic sight to see year-round. 

  • Location: Washburn, Wisconsin
  • Difficulty: Easy
  • Length: 1.3-mile walk
  • Entrance Fee: None
  • Swimming: Not allowed

FAQ: Waterfalls in Wisconsin

1. Are there waterfalls in Wisconsin that allow swimming?

The two waterfalls that allow swimming are Dave’s Falls and Amnicon Falls since they have areas where the water is less harsh. Eau Claire County Park also has falls that allow swimming, but it’s debatable if this qualifies as a waterfall or if they are just large rapids. 

2. What is the Waterfall Loop in Wisconsin?

The official Waterfall Loop in Wisconsin is seven waterfalls located near each other that can all be visited in one day. Those seven waterfalls are Veteran’s Falls, Strong Falls, Dave’s Falls, Eight Foot Falls, Twelve Foot Falls, Eighteen Foot Falls, and Long Slide Falls.

3. Which county in Wisconsin has the most waterfalls?

Iron County has the most waterfalls in Wisconsin, with more than 12 named waterfalls in the area. The area is best known for the Potato River Falls, Interstate Falls, Superior Falls, and Saxon Falls.  

4. How many waterfalls are in Wisconsin?

There are over 100 waterfalls in Wisconsin. Some of the waterfalls are in remote locations that are hard to access, so there is no official number for the amount of waterfalls in Wisconsin. 

5. What is the waterfall capital of Wisconsin?

Marinette County is considered to be the waterfall capital of Wisconsin. The top waterfalls in this area are Dave’s Falls, Smalley Falls, Long Slide Falls, Eighteen Foot Falls, and Twelve Foot Falls. 

6. Where is the highest waterfall in Wisconsin?

The 165-foot-tall Big Manitou Falls is the highest waterfall in Wisconsin. It is located in Pattison State Park in Superior, Wisconsin. 


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About the Author: Pierce Reiten

Pierce Reiten has lived in Wisconsin for over 25 years. During that time, he’s traveled across much of the state, with some of his favorite places to visit being Sturgeon Bay and the Wisconsin Dells. His favorite things to do while traveling through Wisconsin are hiking, kayaking, and exploring local state parks.

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