There’s Nothing Quite As Magical As The Isle of Ferns You’ll Find On The Wisconsin River In Wisconsin

In central Wisconsin, Wausau is a bustling city with a mix of stores and restaurants, small businesses, and large manufacturing companies. It’s also a river town, and there’s a bit of wild space on the Wisconsin River that’s simply magical. It's a little island called Isle of Ferns, and it’s a scenic Wisconsin island that’s worth a visit. Here’s why.

Isle of Ferns is surrounded by the waters of the Wisconsin River, in the middle of the city. It’s easily accessible from the downtown area.

The small island is home to a park that offers a peaceful natural setting. It’s perfect for visitors who are seeking a quiet escape.

As the name suggests, Isle of Ferns is known for its lush vegetation, including a big variety of ferns. The island is primarily wooded and features walking trails that wind through the trees and along the water's edge.

There are plenty of opportunities on this little island for recreation and relaxation. Visitors can take leisurely strolls along the trails, enjoy picnic areas, or simply appreciate the natural beauty of the surroundings. The park is also a popular place for wedding ceremonies.

Birders and other wildlife enthusiasts are also attracted to the park, as the island's vegetation attracts a diverse range of bird species, and the Wisconsin River draws large numbers of migratory birds.

While this is an island, you won’t need a boat. This magical island of ferns can be reached by crossing a convenient pedestrian bridge from the shore.

I drive through Wausau regularly, and there’s always something like this tempting me to stop. Learn more about the Isle of Ferns and other area parks on the Marathon County website. Looking for more ideas and inspiration? Here are the top attractions in Wisconsin.