Big Manitou Falls

About this spectacle

Big Manitou Falls plunges dramatically over a sheer basalt cliff in Pattison State Park in northern Wisconsin, making it the highest waterfall in Wisconsin and one of the tallest east of the Rockies. Visitors standing on the viewing platforms feel the cool mist on their faces and hear the thunderous roar as the Black River free-falls roughly 165 feet into the gorge below. The surrounding northern hardwood and pine forest frames the cascade beautifully, especially in autumn when foliage turns gold and crimson. The falls run year-round, swelling with snowmelt in spring and taking on an icy, dramatic character in deep winter when portions freeze into curtains of ice. The gorge walls, carved from ancient lava flows, add geological drama to the scene. Short accessible trails lead from the parking area to multiple viewpoints at different angles and distances from the falls.

When to go

Jan — Dec, peak Oct — May

Getting there

Nearest airport: DLH. Nearest city: Superior.

Booking options

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