Northern Wisconsin and U.P. Waterfalls Awaiting You This Fall

Waterfalls are captivating all year long: whether surrounded by the summer’s greenery the fall’s fiery hues, whether shimmering with ice crystals in the winter or roaring with snowmelt and nourishing rains in the spring. There are some slippery obstacles to overcome when the deep freeze sets in, so we recommend that you get started on your quest for falls tout de suite.

Lucky for us, this land we call Up North has many waterfalls to brag about. In order to whet your appetite for chasing waterfalls before autumn is over, we provide with you some recommendations throughout northern Wisconsin and the Upper Peninsula of Michigan, so wherever your travels take you this season, a waterfall will be but an easy drive away.

While exploring the falls, please use caution and your best judgment when traversing the earth and rocks near the falls; your path will likely be uneven and slippery. Enjoy the falls from an appropriate distance to get a full sweeping view, to keep yourself safe, and to preserve the sites’ pristine beauty.

Two Breathtaking Falls Near Paulding, Michigan

Agate Falls Scenic Site – Trout Creek, Michigan

Agate Falls is widely considered one of the most picturesque falls in the U.P. View these 40-foot-high falls via an accessible trail. Parking, water, toilets, and picnic tables are available here while the park is open (early May through late October).

Bond Falls – Haight Township, Michigan

These are very popular falls—and for good reason. There are six locations from which to view these magnificent falls, which boast a total drop of approximately 50 feet. There is roadside parking available, as well as picnic tables and an accessible boardwalk.

Five Falls in Western U.P. and Iron County, Wisconsin

Superior Falls – Near Saxon, Wisconsin

Superior Falls encompasses a 110-foot height over several drops, just a few hundred feet away from Lake Superior. These falls straddle the Wisconsin–Michigan border, but they are most easily viewed from the Michigan side. From the parking lot, there is a trail with a rail to the viewing area. Please watch your step over the uneven terrain.

Potato River Falls – Gurney, Wisconsin

This is another arresting waterfall, with a total height of 90 feet. The falls are at the town park, where there are rustic picnic and camping areas available.

Peterson Falls – Hurley, Wisconsin

These falls are technically in both Michigan and Wisconsin, but they are most easily viewed from the Wisconsin side. From the parking area, follow a footpath for a quarter-mile to view this 35-foot-tall beauty.

Wren Falls – Saxon Area, Wisconsin

From the parking area, you can hike up to the rustic campsite at the top of the hill, where you can view the north side of the 30-foot falls.

Upson Falls – Upson Area, Wisconsin

While these falls are a modest 18 feet in height, their draw lies in their sprawling width of 50 feet wide. The falls are located in Upson Town Park, which offers campsites and a picnic area.

Western Wisconsin Waterfalls

Copper Falls State Park – Mellen, Wisconsin

Visitors are drawn to Copper Falls State Park, in Ashland County, to visit several falls (some of which are 30 feet high) contained within it, but Copper Falls is also a popular place for swimming, cycling, and hiking. The park is open all year, but its concession stand closes for the winter.

Lost Creek Falls – Cornucopia, Wisconsin

If you’re looking for a serene falls-viewing experience, visit Lost Creek Falls. The drop is a modest 15 feet, but the cascades offer an appealing view. In warm months, you can even wade in the creek and stand behind the falls. You will come upon the falls early in your hike along a 2.2-mile trail.

Cascade Falls – Osceola, Wisconsin

If your travels bring you to Osceola, in Polk County, there is a lovely waterfall right near the center of town. Steps will lead you down to the gorge and Cascade Falls. The falls’ source is Osceola Creek, which flows through the Osceola Mill and into the St. Croix River.

A Gem in Northeastern Wisconsin

Long Slide Falls – Pembine Area, Wisconsin

As the name suggests, these powerful falls rush through a narrow chute of handsome rock formations, with a steep drop of 50 feet. There is parking available close to the falls, and trails allow you to see the falls from both above and below. There are no fences or railings along the trail, so watch your step while viewing Long Slide Falls.