The 10 Best Scenic Drives For Viewing Wisconsin Fall Colors
Wisconsin has such gorgeous topography and countryside that getting in the car and going for a drive is a delightful prospect any time of the year. But in fall, when the whole state comes alive in a riot of fall colors, it’s especially appealing to hop in the car without a serious destination and go explore. Here are 10 spots where you can find gorgeous vistas and an array of colorful fall foliage in Wisconsin.
These are more suggestions than directions – start on these state highways and then don’t be afraid to veer off the beaten path and explore whatever looks interesting. Just make sure you remember your GPS!
I actually already told you about how this is the best drive for fall foliage viewing. The Kettle Moraine Scenic Drive is a 115-mile long path through 50,000 acres of the southern and northern units of the Kettle Moraine State Forest. It's a gorgeous ramble through really interesting countryside and you shouldn't miss it.
Kettle Moraine Scenic Drive, Kettle Moraine Scenic Dr, West Bend, WI, USA
You really can't go wrong meandering through the gorgeous countryside up here. Start north of the city heading east on Hwy 8 before heading south on Hwy 51. Then take 29 west of the city and veer off on any of the country roads along here. In town, drive up and around Rib Mountain for sweeping views. It's estimated this mountain is more than a billion years old, so take time to appreciate all the geology around you as well.
This state highway will take through more glacial areas and through tiny towns chock full of charm. When you get to Lake Geneva, spend some time on the paved path surrounding the lake.
No matter which way you go, you'll get the full Door County experience covering the bay side and the lake side. The bay gets protected from harsh weather and the various hardwood trees here explode in color in fall, making this one of the most scenic spots anywhere.
Wisconsin 42 & Wisconsin 57, WI-42 & WI-57, Nasewaupee, WI 54235, USA
This is a drive that takes you to numerous waterfalls, but also through some of the prettiest fall color you can imagine. There are "waterfall tour" signs, but if you wander along these two roads, you'll find most of the stops and plenty of trees to keep you happy.
You'll find yourself in or near several state parks and natural areas on this drive, so definitely plan to deviate some. But Hwy 113 takes you through rolling hills, near Devil's Lake and through some tall bluffs, all dotted with color.
The Great River Road that follows the path of the Mississippi along the state's western edge is one of the best drives no matter the season, but is especially gorgeous in fall. Start up at Maiden Rock and meander through the charming small towns of Pepin, Alma, Fountain City and Trempealeau. You'll find small cities on big bluffs and spectacular views.
Great River Road, Great River Rd, Stoddard, WI, USA
Start in LaCrosse and drive up to the top of Grandad's Bluff for sweeping views than head south to Prairie du Chien for great eagle watching and end up in the unique Potosi valley for a beer.
Prairie Du Chien Area, WI, USA
9. Hwy 77 through Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest
This is one of those drives where you shouldn't hesitate to take an unplanned turn and go exploring. You can't go wrong exploring the gorgeous Northwoods. Lakes and streams, state parks and public land protect areas that were once forested and now contain a wide variety of trees whose color will delight you in fall.
Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest, Clam Lake, WI 54517, USA
Hwy 13 follows the Bayfield peninsula out into the lake and will also take you to Brule River State Forest, where there are acres upon acres of stunning trees.
State Highway 13, State Hwy 13, Wisconsin Rapids, WI, USA
Is your favorite leaf peeping drive on this list? Where do you love to explore fall colors in Wisconsin? Let us know in the comments!
Address: Kettle Moraine Scenic Drive, Kettle Moraine Scenic Dr, West Bend, WI, USA
Address: Wisconsin 36, WI-36, Wind Lake, WI, USA
Address: Wisconsin 42 & Wisconsin 57, WI-42 & WI-57, Nasewaupee, WI 54235, USA
Address: Hwy 8 and Hwy 141 in Marinette County
Address: Wisconsin 113, WI-113, Waunakee, WI, USA
Address: Devils Lake, Wisconsin 53913, USA
Address: Prairie Du Chien Area, WI, USA
Address: Great River Road, Great River Rd, Stoddard, WI, USA
Address: Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest, Clam Lake, WI 54517, USA
Address: State Highway 13, State Hwy 13, Wisconsin Rapids, WI, USA
Address: Route 29 Trunk, WI-29 Trunk, Wausau, WI, USA
OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article.
The OIYS Visitor Center
Fall Foliage In Wisconsin
August 15, 2022
Bill Hall
When can I see peak fall foliage in Wisconsin?
Fall colors tend to appear between the first and third weeks of October depending on where you are in Wisconsin. For instance, Spooner is expected to have its best fall colors starting in the first week of October while Green County should see the change last week of October, just in time for Halloween. The good news is you can take short road trips and see the display all the way from the end of September to the beginning of November.
The countryside of Wisconsin is filled with scenic roads with beautiful views. Lots of folks enjoy hopping in the car, playing some tunes, and taking it all in. It’s a wonderful pastime. The 12 Best Backroads In Wisconsin For A Long Scenic Drive offers an array of laidback choices.
Fall is a great season in Wisconsin. It’s a nice time of the year to be out and about with others. Whether you are interested in picking pumpkins, collecting cranberries, or pulling drafts of beer… there is something fun to do. 10 Unique Fall Festivals In Wisconsin You Won’t Find Anywhere Else will point you in the right direction.
The Hunting Moon Pow Wow takes place for three days in October. This celebration is the opportunity for Native Americans to connect with each other, their history, as well as with non-native Americans in a festive atmosphere. This is a celebration filled with history, music, dance, food, and the sharing of cultures. This is highly recommended.
Address: Kettle Moraine Scenic Drive, Kettle Moraine Scenic Dr, West Bend, WI, USA
Address: Wisconsin 36, WI-36, Wind Lake, WI, USA
Address: Wisconsin 42 & Wisconsin 57, WI-42 & WI-57, Nasewaupee, WI 54235, USA
Address: Hwy 8 and Hwy 141 in Marinette County
Address: Wisconsin 113, WI-113, Waunakee, WI, USA
Address: Devils Lake, Wisconsin 53913, USA
Address: Prairie Du Chien Area, WI, USA
Address: Great River Road, Great River Rd, Stoddard, WI, USA
Address: Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest, Clam Lake, WI 54517, USA
Address: State Highway 13, State Hwy 13, Wisconsin Rapids, WI, USA
Address: Route 29 Trunk, WI-29 Trunk, Wausau, WI, USA
OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article.
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