Posted in Wisconsin
May 10, 2020
9 Wisconsin Natural Wonders You Need To Add To Your Outdoor Bucket List For 2020
Wisconsin is absolutely wonderful – and by that we mean it’s full of wonder. Want proof? We thought you might, which is why we compiled this list of some of the state’s best natural wonders. Brimming with natural beauty and sure to impress, these stunning sites belong on your bucket list. Take a look:
We’re aware that these uncertain times are limiting many aspects of life as we all practice social and physical distancing. While we’re continuing to feature destinations that make our state wonderful, we don’t expect or encourage you to go check them out immediately. We believe that supporting local attractions is important now more than ever and we hope our articles inspire your future adventures! And on that note, please nominate your favorite local business that could use some love right now: https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/nominate/
The most notable feature of the Apostle Islands has got to be the red-brown sandstone sea caves that dot their shores. Thousands of years in the making, the caves were carved out by the mighty waters of Lake Superior. Though a great visit year-round, the caves are especially stunning during winter when filled with dazzling ice formations.
Address: 415 Washington Ave, Bayfield, WI 54814
Address: 415 Washington Ave, Bayfield, WI 54814
This National Natural Landmark attracts roughly 100,000 visitors per year, which isn’t surprising when you learn that the subterranean wonder boasts an intricate array of stalactites and stalagmites. Thanks to lighted walkways and informative guides, touring the cave, which is 40’ to 70’ below ground, is a breeze.
Address: 2975 Cave of the Mounds Rd, Blue Mounds, WI 53517
Address: 2975 Cave of the Mounds Rd, Blue Mounds, WI 53517
This Niagara Escarpment is basically a 1,000-mile rock ledge that extends from New York, through Ontario, Michigan, Wisconsin, and Illinois. As the name implies, it’s the cliff that forms the nation’s most notorious waterfall, Niagara Falls. There are several places in Wisconsin where you can view the significant escarpment, including Cave Point County Park (pictured), Peninsula State Park, and High Cliff State Park.
Address: 5360 Schauer Rd, Sturgeon Bay, WI 54235
Address: 5360 Schauer Rd, Sturgeon Bay, WI 54235
Home to 500’ quartzite bluffs and spectacular rock formations, Devil’s Lake State Park has been deemed one of the most scenic and geographically interesting places in the state. Among the park’s most recognizable rock formations is a stone arch known as Devil’s Doorway and Balanced Rock, which, as the name implies, features a large rock resting, or balancing, atop another.
Address: S5975 Park Rd, Baraboo, WI 53913
Address: S5975 Park Rd, Baraboo, WI 53913
No list of natural wonders would be complete without mentioning the two Great Lakes that border Wisconsin – Lake Superior and Lake Michigan. Truly great, the lakes provide ample recreational opportunities, including fishing, swimming, sailing, and kayaking – and that’s in addition to magnificent ocean-like vistas.
Address: 1824 Washington Harbor Rd, Washington, WI 54246
Address: 1824 Washington Harbor Rd, Washington, WI 54246
The marsh of all marshes, Horicon Marsh is the largest freshwater cattail marsh in the nation! Its massive size is just one of its notable features, though. It’s also a migratory stop for Canada geese and is home to the largest nesting population of redhead ducks east of the Mississippi, making it a paradise for photographers and bird-watchers.
Address: N7725 WI-28, Horicon, WI 53032
Address: N7725 WI-28, Horicon, WI 53032
Standing at 165’, the aptly-named Big Manitou Falls takes the title of Wisconsin’s tallest waterfall. And at just 2’ shorter than Niagara Falls, it’s the fourth tallest waterfall east of the Rockies! Easily accessible, Big Manitou Falls is located in Pattison State Park. The park is also home to Little Manitou Falls, a smaller, 30’ version of Big Manitou Falls.
Address: 6294 WI-35, Superior, WI 54880
Address: 6294 WI-35, Superior, WI 54880
Of all the natural wonders in Wisconsin, the natural sandstone arch in Natural Bridge State Park is one of the most impressive. Truly a sight to see, the geologic anomaly is the largest natural bridge in the state. But that’s not its only claim to fame. It’s also been determined to be the oldest known site of human habitation in the upper Midwest.
Address: E7992, North Freedom, WI 53951
Address: E7992, North Freedom, WI 53951
Wisconsin’s oldest state park just so happens to be home to one of the state’s best natural wonders - the Dalles of the St. Croix River. An incredible geologic gem, the Dalles formed when melted glacier water flowed through the St. Croix valley, carving gorges and cliffs into the hard basalt lava rock that filled the area. In addition to the Dalles, the park offers lots of opportunities for outdoor fun, including hiking, camping, fishing, and rock climbing.
Address: WI-35, St Croix Falls, WI 54024
Address: WI-35, St Croix Falls, WI 54024
Did you know Wisconsin was home to these incredible wonders? Have you already visited any, or all, of them? What would you add to this list? Tell us in the comments section.
These aren’t the only wonderful sites in Wisconsin. Read about another here.
Address: 415 Washington Ave, Bayfield, WI 54814, USA
Address: 2975 Cave of the Mounds Rd, Blue Mounds, WI 53517, USA
Address: S5975 Park Rd, Baraboo, WI 53913, USA
Address: 1824 Washington Harbor Rd, Washington, WI 54246, USA
Address: N7725 WI-28, Horicon, WI 53032, USA
Address: E7992, North Freedom, WI 53951, USA
Address: WI-35, St Croix Falls, WI, USA
