10 Underrated Wisconsin Hiking Trails With Jaw-Dropping Waterfalls You Need To Discover

Have you ever wondered where to find Wisconsin’s hidden natural gems?

While the state is famous for its scenic landscapes and Great Lakes, some of its most breathtaking waterfalls are tucked away on lesser-known hiking trails.

These underrated paths offer the perfect blend of adventure, tranquility, and stunning views, making them a must-visit for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

1. Amnicon Falls State Park (South Range)

Autumn magic at Amnicon Falls. The covered bridge looks like it's straight out of a Norman Rockwell painting, only with more exciting water features. — Autumn magic at Amnicon Falls. The covered bridge looks like it’s straight out of a Norman Rockwell painting, only with more exciting water features. Photo Credit: Jamey Kuhn

Let’s kick off our aquatic adventure at Amnicon Falls State Park, where Mother Nature decided to show off by creating not one, not two, but four waterfalls!

It’s like she was playing waterfall bingo and hit the jackpot.

As you stroll through the park, you’ll come across the Upper and Lower Falls, Now and Then Falls, and Snake Pit Falls.

I know what you’re thinking – “Snake Pit Falls? Is this a waterfall or Indiana Jones’ worst nightmare?”

Don’t worry, it’s just a name.

The only snakes you’ll find here are the twisting trails that lead you to these magnificent cascades.

Nature's own water park! Amnicon Falls tumbles over ancient lava flows, creating a spectacle that's part geology lesson, part "Splash Mountain" without the lines. — Nature’s own water park! Amnicon Falls tumbles over ancient lava flows, creating a spectacle that’s part geology lesson, part “Splash Mountain” without the lines. Photo Credit: RICHARD KOCH

The star of the show is the covered bridge that spans the falls, offering a view that’s straight out of a fairy tale.

It’s so picturesque, you half expect to see a troll demanding payment for crossing.

But instead of gold, he’d probably ask for a six-pack of Spotted Cow.

2. Copper Falls State Park (Mellen)

Copper Falls: Where Mother Nature shows off her sculpting skills. This cascade could give Michelangelo's David a run for its money in the beauty department. — Copper Falls: Where Mother Nature shows off her sculpting skills. This cascade could give Michelangelo’s David a run for its money in the beauty department. Photo Credit: Brian Bucey

Next up, we’re heading to Copper Falls State Park, where the waterfalls are so impressive, they make Niagara look like a leaky faucet.

Okay, maybe that’s a slight exaggeration, but trust me, these falls are the real deal.

The park boasts two major waterfalls: Copper Falls and Brownstone Falls.

Both plunge nearly 30 feet into a gorge that’s deeper than my love for cheese (and that’s saying something).

The Bad River and its tributary, the Tyler Forks, have spent millions of years carving out this spectacular landscape.

It’s like Mother Nature’s own sculpting project, and let me tell you, she’s got skills.

Talk about a rocky relationship! Copper Falls and its gorge have been going steady for millennia, carving out a scene more dramatic than a soap opera. Photo Credit: Julie

As you hike along the trails, keep an eye out for the ancient lava flows and glacial deposits.

It’s like a geology lesson come to life, but way more exciting than your high school science class.

And if you’re lucky, you might spot a bald eagle soaring overhead.

Just don’t mistake it for an oversized seagull eyeing your trail mix.

3. Parfrey’s Glen State Natural Area (Merrimac)

Parfrey's Glen: Wisconsin's first State Natural Area and nature's own vertical garden. It's like someone spilled Miracle-Gro on the side of a cliff! — Parfrey’s Glen: Wisconsin’s first State Natural Area and nature’s own vertical garden. It’s like someone spilled Miracle-Gro on the side of a cliff! Photo credit: Jacob Mankey

Now, let’s venture into Parfrey’s Glen, a place so magical, it makes Hogwarts look like a run-down motel.

This hidden gem is Wisconsin’s first State Natural Area, and boy, did they set the bar high.

As you hike through the narrow, rocky gorge, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into another world.

The moss-covered walls rise high above you, creating a cool, misty microclimate that’s home to rare plants typically found much further north.

It’s like a little slice of Canada, but without the “eh”s and excessive politeness.

Hidden treasure alert! Parfrey's Glen's waterfall plays hard to get, but the journey is half the fun. Indiana Jones, eat your heart out! — Hidden treasure alert! Parfrey’s Glen’s waterfall plays hard to get, but the journey is half the fun. Indiana Jones, eat your heart out! Photo credit: tifanyk1973

At the end of the trail, you’ll find a beautiful waterfall cascading over ancient rock formations.

It’s not the biggest waterfall on our list, but what it lacks in size, it makes up for in sheer beauty and atmosphere.

Plus, the hike to get there is half the fun.

Just remember to bring waterproof shoes – unless you fancy that “I just walked through a car wash” look.

4. Willow River State Park (Hudson)

Willow Falls: Nature's own amphitheater. The roar of the water is more impressive than your neighbor's new surround sound system. — Willow Falls: Nature’s own amphitheater. The roar of the water is more impressive than your neighbor’s new surround sound system. Photo credit: Tom Diehl

Our next stop is Willow River State Park, home to a waterfall so impressive, it could give Niagara a run for its money.

Okay, maybe not in size, but definitely in charm and lack of tourist traps.

The star of the show here is Willow Falls, a multi-tiered cascade that tumbles down a series of rocky ledges.

It’s like nature’s version of a staircase, except way more exciting and with a lot more water.

The falls are especially spectacular in spring when snowmelt swells the river, turning the cascade into a roaring spectacle that’ll make your Instagram followers green with envy.

Stairway to heaven? Nope, just the trail to Willow Falls. But with views like this, you might think you've died and gone to hiker's paradise. — Stairway to heaven? Nope, just the trail to Willow Falls. But with views like this, you might think you’ve died and gone to hiker’s paradise. Photo credit: Marty Dahlke

But the falls aren’t the only attraction here.

The park offers miles of hiking trails, a beach for swimming, and even a butterfly garden.

It’s like Mother Nature decided to create her own all-inclusive resort, minus the overpriced cocktails and cheesy entertainment.

5. Pewit’s Nest State Natural Area (Baraboo)

Pewit's Nest: Nature's own secret swimming hole. It's like finding a five-star resort in your backyard, minus the overpriced cocktails. — Pewit’s Nest: Nature’s own secret swimming hole. It’s like finding a five-star resort in your backyard, minus the overpriced cocktails. Photo credit: Edward Brunton

Next up is Pewit’s Nest, and no, it’s not a retirement home for grumpy birds.

This hidden gorge is one of Wisconsin’s best-kept secrets, tucked away near the tourist mecca of Wisconsin Dells.

The gorge itself is a narrow canyon carved by Skillet Creek, with walls rising up to 30-40 feet high.

As you hike along the rim, you’ll catch glimpses of the creek far below, tumbling over a series of small waterfalls.

It’s like nature’s own water park, but without the overpriced tickets and questionable hygiene.

Emerald waters and towering cliffs make Pewit's Nest look like a miniature tropical paradise. Who needs the Caribbean when you've got this? — Emerald waters and towering cliffs make Pewit’s Nest look like a miniature tropical paradise. Who needs the Caribbean when you’ve got this? Photo credit: Sun Brothers

The name “Pewit’s Nest” comes from the pewit, a small flycatcher bird that used to nest in the area.

Sadly, the pewits have moved on, probably to somewhere with better real estate options.

But don’t let that stop you from imagining tiny birds in hardhats, constructing elaborate nests in the gorge walls.

6. Interstate State Park (St. Croix Falls)

Interstate Park: Where Wisconsin and Minnesota compete for the title of “Most Gorgeous Waterfall View.” Spoiler alert: Everyone wins! Photo credit: Dick Kruse

Straddling the border between Wisconsin and Minnesota, Interstate State Park is like the Switzerland of the Midwest, minus the chocolate and cuckoo clocks.

This park is famous for its potholes – and no, I’m not talking about the kind that wreak havoc on your car’s suspension.

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These potholes were formed by glacial meltwater and range in size from small divots to massive kettles big enough to swallow a Volkswagen.

St. Croix Falls: Nature's own fireworks display. No need to wait for the 4th of July when you've got this year-round spectacle! — St. Croix Falls: Nature’s own fireworks display. No need to wait for the 4th of July when you’ve got this year-round spectacle! Photo credit: Patrick McGivern

It’s like Mother Nature decided to play a giant game of Connect Four with the landscape.

While the park doesn’t have any massive waterfalls, it does offer beautiful views of the St. Croix River and its rapids.

And if you’re feeling adventurous, you can even try rock climbing on the cliffs overlooking the river.

Just remember, gravity is not your friend, but your harness is.

7. Fonferek’s Glen (De Pere)

Fonferek's Glen: Where water takes a 30-foot plunge with more grace than an Olympic diver. Perfect 10s across the board! — Fonferek’s Glen: Where water takes a 30-foot plunge with more grace than an Olympic diver. Perfect 10s across the board! Photo credit: servantsheart7 wilcox

Fonferek’s Glen is like that indie band you discovered before they hit it big – a hidden gem that’s not on most people’s radar.

Located just outside Green Bay, this county park features a 30-foot waterfall that plunges over a dolomite cliff.

The glen itself is a narrow, rocky gorge that looks like it was transplanted straight from the pages of a fantasy novel.

Autumn at Fonferek's Glen: Mother Nature's confetti party. The falls provide the music, the leaves bring the color. You just bring the awe. — Autumn at Fonferek’s Glen: Mother Nature’s confetti party. The falls provide the music, the leaves bring the color. You just bring the awe. Photo credit: Amy Penokie

As you hike along the rim, you’ll come across a natural stone arch that’s perfect for those “Look, Ma, I’m on top of the world!” photos.

Just don’t actually try to climb on it – we want you to enjoy the rest of the trip, not spend it in traction.

The waterfall is at its most impressive in spring or after heavy rains, when it transforms from a gentle trickle to a roaring cascade.

It’s like nature’s own mood swing, but way more beautiful and less likely to slam doors.

8. Dave’s Falls County Park (Amberg)

Dave's Falls: Proof that good things come in small packages. It's like nature's own staircase, only much prettier and less tiring to climb. — Dave’s Falls: Proof that good things come in small packages. It’s like nature’s own staircase, only much prettier and less tiring to climb. Photo credit: Jim Franzen

Dave’s Falls is proof that sometimes the best things come in small packages.

This little county park packs a big punch with its series of cascades tumbling over ancient bedrock.

The falls are named after Dave Pearce, a local landowner who donated the land to the county.

Thanks, Dave! Your generosity has given us a place to escape the hustle and bustle of… well, Amberg, Wisconsin.

Which, let’s be honest, isn’t exactly a bustling metropolis.

Front-row seats to nature's aquatic ballet at Dave's Falls. No formal wear required, but you might want to bring a raincoat! — Front-row seats to nature’s aquatic ballet at Dave’s Falls. No formal wear required, but you might want to bring a raincoat! Photo credit: Ashley Morrow

The main attraction is a set of two waterfalls on the Pike River.

The upper falls drop about 10 feet, while the lower falls plunge dramatically into a deep, emerald pool.

It’s like nature’s own infinity pool, but without the pretentious cocktail menu and overpriced lounge chairs.

9. Lost Creek Falls (Cornucopia)

Lost Creek Falls: The reward at the end of a fairy tale forest hike. Cinderella's castle has nothing on this natural wonder. — Lost Creek Falls: The reward at the end of a fairy tale forest hike. Cinderella’s castle has nothing on this natural wonder. Photo credit: chrisandjess2017

If you’re looking for a true hidden gem, look no further than Lost Creek Falls.

This secluded waterfall is so off the beaten path, even GPS has trouble finding it.

It’s like the Bermuda Triangle of Wisconsin waterfalls, minus the mysterious disappearances (we hope).

The hike to the falls is about 1.5 miles through a beautiful forest.

Along the way, you might spot wildlife like deer, rabbits, or even the elusive Bigfoot.

Crystal clear pool at Lost Creek Falls. It's like nature's own infinity pool, minus the pretentious resort crowd and overpriced umbrella drinks. — Crystal clear pool at Lost Creek Falls. It’s like nature’s own infinity pool, minus the pretentious resort crowd and overpriced umbrella drinks. Photo credit: Brenda Barnum

Okay, maybe not Bigfoot, but a hiker can dream, right?

When you finally reach the falls, you’ll be rewarded with a stunning 15-foot cascade tucked away in a picturesque glen.

It’s the perfect spot for a picnic, a photo op, or just sitting and contemplating the meaning of life.

Or, you know, wondering if you remembered to turn off the stove before leaving home.

10. Morgan Falls and St. Peter’s Dome (Mellen)

Morgan Falls: Where water does its best impression of a bridal veil. Something old (the rocks), something new (the constantly flowing water), something borrowed (the sunlight), something blue (the sky). Photo credit: Jamie M

We’re ending our waterfall tour with a two-for-one special: Morgan Falls and St. Peter’s Dome.

It’s like nature’s own BOGO deal, but instead of getting an extra pair of socks, you get breathtaking views and a gorgeous waterfall.

Morgan Falls is a slender, 70-foot cascade that seems to appear out of nowhere in the dense forest.

It’s like nature’s own magic trick, pulling a waterfall out of its hat.

The short hike to the falls is easy and well-maintained, perfect for those of us who prefer our nature walks to be more “leisurely stroll” than “Survivor challenge.”

St. Peter's Dome: On top of the world, or at least on top of Wisconsin. The view is more breathtaking than trying to eat a whole cheese curd in one bite! — St. Peter’s Dome: On top of the world, or at least on top of Wisconsin. The view is more breathtaking than trying to eat a whole cheese curd in one bite! Photo credit: HTCWI

But wait, there’s more!

If you’re up for a more strenuous hike, continue on to St. Peter’s Dome.

This rocky outcrop offers panoramic views of the surrounding Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest.

On a clear day, you can see for miles – it’s like being on top of the world, but with fewer yetis and more trees.

So there you have it, folks – ten of Wisconsin’s most stunning, underrated waterfalls.

From hidden gorges to towering cascades, the Badger State has it all.

Who knew that “America’s Dairyland” was hiding all this natural beauty behind its cheese and beer?

Next time someone tries to tell you that Wisconsin is just flat farmland, you can laugh in their face (politely, of course – we are Midwesterners, after all) and show them these pictures.

Just don’t be surprised if they suddenly want to tag along on your next hiking trip.

Now, if you’ll excuse me, all this talk of waterfalls has made me thirsty.

Time to crack open a cold one and toast to Mother Nature’s finest work.

Cheers, Wisconsin – you’ve outdone yourself this time!

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