9 Wisconsin Natural Wonders You Need To Add To Your Outdoor Bucket List
Wisconsin is absolutely wonderful – and by that we mean it’s full of natural beauty that never ceases to leave us in awe of the stunning sights ahead. 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:
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.
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
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.
Home to 500’ quartzite bluffs and spectacular rock formations, Devils 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 Devils Doorway and Balanced Rock, which, as the name implies, features a large rock resting, or balancing, atop another.
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
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.
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.
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.
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.
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
The OIYS Visitor Center
natural wonders in Wisconsin
March 29, 2021
Kim Magaraci
What are the most beautiful hikes in Wisconsin?
Take a breezy hike through Horicon Marsh, or enjoy stunning views from Wyalusing State Park. The Nordic Trail is an amazing trek in winter, and the Lions Den Gorge offers breathtaking scenery you’ll never forget. For more of the best hikes in Wisconsin, check out our list of the top 15 treks and trails in the Badger State, here.
What are the best beaches in Wisconsin?
Believe it or not, our landlocked state is home to dozens of beautiful beaches. There are hundreds of miles of Great Lakes shoreline, and you’ll find the most scenic and accommodating stretches of sand on that lake coast. Visit Schoolhouse Beach and North Beach to see Lake Michigan in all its glory, or enjoy an afternoon sunning yourself along Big Bay Beach, on Lake Superior.
Which state parks should I visit in Wisconsin?
Wisconsin’s State Park system is one of the best in the country, and there are dozens of stunning preserves that offer fun outdoor adventures for anyone who loves to spend time in nature. Some of our favorites include Devils Lake State Park, Amnicon Falls State Park, Governor Dodge State Park, and Newport State Park. Each one shows off something spectacular about the Badger State! Visit Newport State Park on a New Moon night and you’ll see the darkest skies in Wisconsin.
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
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Though Daniella was born in New York and has lived in a couple of other states, Mississippi has been her home for the past 25 years. After graduating from the University of Southern Mississippi, Daniella began to hone her writing skills through various internships, working for The Royal Obsession and Anatomie clothing. In the years since, she’s had the privilege of having her articles appear in several publications, such as Parents & Kids Magazine and Girl Meets Strong. She’s also had the honor of interviewing actress Sela Ward for The Mississippi Arts and Entertainment Experience.
