The best things in life really are free! And if you need proof, you’ll find it in the Badger State, which just so happens to be chock full of incredible natural wonders that you can witness for FREE.
1. Grandad Bluff (La Crosse)
Boasting an elevation of 590 feet, Grandad Bluff is the result of years of erosion and weathering. Today, you can drive straight to the top, where you’ll be met with incredible panoramic vistas. For more information, click here.
2. Pier County Park (Richland Center)
The highlight of Pier County Park is a natural bridge, which just so happens to be one of the largest in Wisconsin. Getting close-up views of the massive geologic formation is a breeze, thanks to a man-made tunnel and bridge, which allow visitors to walk right through it. There are also stairs that lead straight to the top of the giant rock formation. For more information, click
" target="_blank">here.
3. Lost Creek Falls (Cornucopia)
With an 8-foot plunge, Lost Creek Falls isn’t the biggest waterfall, but it sure is stunning! It’s also unique – and that’s because you can walk behind it, which is pretty uncommon for waterfalls around Lake Superior. As an added bonus, a small 3-foot cascade lies just a short distance downstream from Lost Creek Falls. For more information, click here.
4. Pebble Beach (Sister Bay)
In terms of natural wonders, Pebble Beach rocks! Amazingly beautiful and utterly unique, the beach boasts pristine waters and…lots of pebbles. Yep; instead of sand, the beach is covered in limestone rocks – hence the name Pebble Beach. For more information, click here.
5. Pewit's Nest State Natural Area (Baraboo)
Brimming with beauty, this state natural area is centered around a 30- to 40-foot deep gorge, which is cut by Skillet Creek, resulting in several small pools and flowing falls. An abundance of lush greenery only adds to the area’s bountiful beauty. For more information, click here.
6. Ableman’s Gorge (Rock Springs)
Nowhere else offers a peek into Baraboo’s geologic past like Ableman’s Gorge! The natural area is full of towering rock formations that are comprised of quartzite, Cambrian sandstone, and conglomerate. A forested trail, which runs along the base of bare, rocky cliffs, makes it easy to explore the natural area. For more information, click here.
7. Cherney Maribel Caves County Park (Maribel)
Dubbed "an exciting natural park for everyone," Cherney Maribel Caves County Park boasts caves and crevices galore. Some caves can only be toured at specific times; however, many are open and accessible any time the park is officially open, making the park a prime spot for anyone seeking some outdoor adventure. For more information, click here.
So, did you know about the natural gems mentioned above? Did we leave off your favorite free-to-see spot?
These aren’t the only natural wonders in Wisconsin. Read about others here.
Subscribe to our newsletter
Get the latest updates and news
Thank you for subscribing!