When trees blaze with autumn colors in Wisconsin, enjoy the view at one of these prime locations.
Fall is one of Wisconsinites favorite seasons. A reprieve from the hot summer means cooler evenings but warm days. The harvest brings apples, cherries, cranberries, and more. Wisconsin's red, orange, and yellow trees compete with the Packers' green and gold.
When to View Fall Colors in Wisconsin
Wisconsin is a large state and the peak times of changing colors heads south over the weeks. The action begins in Northern Wisconsin in late September and early October as the trees there hit their peak. Central Wisconsin reaches its peak in foilage activity in early to mid October. The trees of Southern Wisconsin hang on until mid to late October.
Where to View Fall Colors in Wisconsin
- Northern Wisconsin - Northern Wisconsin, as the most heavily forested part of the state, provides no shortage of views wherever you may go. But a couple locations are especially lovely. The Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest is scattered across the north. Get away from the hustle and bustle by taking a trail through the forest lands. For more information, stop by the Visitor Center in Ashland or the Interpretive Center in Florence. Another choice in the north is Interstate State Park, the oldest in Wisconsin. Located on the St. Croix River and bordering Minnesota just outside St. Croix Falls, you can hike or canoe past the beautiful fall foliage. A third option in the north is Copper Falls State Park. View both brilliant trees and tall, tumbling waterfalls at this gem located near Mellen.
- Central Wisconsin - Near the center of the state is Rib Mountain State Park in Wausau. Get the best views from the 60-foot tower overlooking the fiery leaves below. East of Lake Winnebago is High Cliff State Park. Located near Sherwood, the park goes from the shores of Wisconsin's largest lake up to the Niagara Escarpment, a rocky outcropping that extends all the way to Niagara Falls, New York. Another observation tower is located at this park. Up in Door County, there are five different state parks to choose from. See an abundance of lighthouses surrounded by rocks with watery and forested backdrops.
- Southern Wisconsin - In Southern Wisconsin, visit Horicon Marsh in Dodge County to see the migration of thousands of birds. They stop here at this golden-hued watering hole before heading farther south for the winter. The Kettle Moraine State Forest's North and South Units are just outside of the populous Milwaukee County region. Rolling, forested hills make for comfortable strolling and gorgeous scenery. In South Central Wisconsin, visit Devil's Lake State Park near Baraboo for bluffs covered with jumbled rocks and ruddy trees. Bring your canoe and cross the lake or hike the low or high trails for beautiful vistas at every turn.
- Great River Road - Extending along the Mississippi River from southern to central Wisconsin, the Great River Road includes breathtaking scenery and quaint country towns. Stop at Wyalusing State Park for a hike or in La Crosse for a paddleboat ride or visit the town Laura Ingalls Wilder called home.
- Ice Age Trail - The Ice Age Trail is not yet complete but portions of it can be found throughout the state. It begins in Door County and swoops down to the south through the Kettle Moraine and then heads back north around Madison and past the Wisconsin River, then straight west in the northern part of the state through quiet woodlands.
The copyright of the article Fall Color in Wisconsin in Wisconsin Travel is owned by Kelly Whitt. Permission to republish Fall Color in Wisconsin in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.
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