A weekly column written by the staff of Discover Wisconsin highlights things to do and see throughout the State of Wisconsin, and is made available for publication to members of the Wisconsin Newspaper Association. The column is accompanied by photos for use in print and online. The Discover Wisconsin logo can be downloaded here.
With summer fading, Wisconsin’s fall colors are calling! Whether you’re on a solo adventure or a family trip, the state has vibrant foliage spots to explore from north to south and east to west. From scenic drives and hiking trails to charming small towns and lakeside views, there’s something for every kind of adventurer. Here’s a guide to help you map out some of the best routes and stops.
Northern Wisconsin
Kick off your trip where the forests are vast and the lakes are absolutely stunning! First up, the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore pops with bold reds and golds against Lake Superior’s rocky shores—view it from the mainland or take a boat out to the islands! Nearby, Copper Falls State Park is loaded with waterfalls and trails ideal for hiking or paddling through colorful surroundings. And don’t miss Pattison State Park, home to some of the tallest waterfalls in Wisconsin—up to 165 feet high!
Eastern Wisconsin
Next, Head east to some of Wisconsin’s most scenic waterways, including Lake Winnebago, Elkhart Lake, and Lake Michigan—perfect places to add to your fall road trip list. Begin at High Cliff State Park, which offers sweeping vistas of Lake Winnebago and the limestone cliffs of the Niagara Escarpment. Then, paddle around Elkhart Lake for 360-degree views of fiery leaves or climb Marsh Park Observation Tower for a bird’s-eye perspective. Finally, Peninsula State Park’s Eagle Tower is the place for panoramic views of Lake Michigan’s shore and islands decked in fall colors.
Southern Wisconsin
Down south, explore the rugged beauty of Devil’s Lake State Park, situated right along the infamous Ice Age National Scenic Trail. Here, you can hike up rocky ridges for incredible views—all around a peaceful lake. Hikers and bikers, you’ll want to check out the expansive Kettle Moraine State Forest Northern Unit—the first and largest of the entire state forest! Cruise through 30,000 acres of colorful woods! End this leg with a relaxing cruise on Geneva Lake. The best part? There’s a cruise for everyone to enjoy!
Western Wisconsin
Head west for a scenic drive along Wisconsin’s Great River Road, winding next to the Mississippi River and its amazing autumn foliage! Stop at Perrot State Park for bluff-top views where the Trempealeau and Mississippi Rivers converge. And just nearby, Five Mile Bluff Prairie offers even more panoramic vistas atop 300-foot bluffs—a perfect spot to stretch your legs and snap photos of the Chippewa and Mississippi Rivers.
Central Wisconsin
Wrap up your trip in Central Wisconsin! Timm’s Hill, the state’s highest point, will reward you with 30-mile views from its observation tower and multi-use trails for all kinds of outdoor fun! Rib Mountain State Park also offers scenic hikes and picnic spots beneath golden leaves, well worth your time. For a unique perspective, hop on a chairlift at Granite Peak Ski Area, floating above the colorful canopy for a fresh angle on fall.
Ready to hit the road? Get set for unforgettable views waiting just around every corner this fall! With countless spots to explore—from charming small towns to stunning natural overlooks—your perfect Wisconsin road trip awaits with vibrant colors, fresh air, and epic adventures!
Hailey Marien, third-generation and granddaughter of Dick Rose, writes for the nation’s longest-running tourism TV show, Discover Wisconsin. Watch the show online at DiscoverWisconsin.com. Follow Discover Wisconsin on Facebook (facebook.com/discoverwisconsin), Instagram (instagram.com/discoverwisconsin), and TikTok (tiktok.com/discoverwisconsin).
