Most travelers think about the beach when talking about water adventures.
But personally, there’s nothing more adventurous and thrilling than being rewarded with majestic views of nature’s waterfalls, especially after a long hike.
If you love waterfalls as much as I do, make sure to travel Wisconsin during the warmer months.
The waterfalls in the Northeast region are so breathtaking that I visited many of them in two months!
I’m not going to lie, though– some waterfalls were more spectacular than others.
So, let me share the best waterfalls in northeast Wisconsin to ensure that your exploration of the depths of nature is 100% worth it.
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1. Fonferek’s Glen Waterfall
I’ve always believed that waterfalls make all the effort of trekking and hiking worth it.
But guess what– sometimes, there’s no need to exert yourself just to explore a wondrous waterfall.
The Fonferek’s Glen Waterfall is a living testament to this.
Just take a short 20-minute drive south of Downtown Green Bay, walk a little, and you’ll find this 30-foot beautiful waterfall in a 75-acre county park.
Now, this is by no means the largest waterfall in Wisconsin, but it’s worth the visit if you’re near the area!
Where to stay: Secluded Lake House Retreat – Hilbert, WI
2. Dave’s Falls
Ask a local to name some of the best waterfalls in Northern Wisconsin; chances are, they’ll mention Dave’s Falls.
That’s precisely what I did while searching for things to do in Northern Wisconsin.
And as expected, a local’s recommendation never disappoints.
Dave’s Falls was one of the easiest waterfalls in Northern Wisconsin to find.
It’s only one mile south of the city of Pembine, which also has some of the best attractions in Northeast Wisconsin, and only costs $5 to enter.
So, it was astonishing to see how pretty Dave’s Falls was, along with the park’s gushing rivers, wooden bridges, and lush greens.
I was slightly disappointed that the trail was relatively short (approx. 0.6 miles only).
Within half an hour, I had covered the entire country park already, but no one stopped me from making a second trip around, so I did exactly that.VRBO Cozy Quaint Cabin WI
Where to stay: Motel 6 – Norway, MI
3. Strong Falls
Although its name might suggest that this waterfall will feature intense weather and rugged cliffs, Strong Falls is one of the prettiest and most peaceful waterfalls in Northeast Wisconsin.
Via Goodman Park, this waterfall is very accessible, making it extremely popular among hikers and bikers alike.
My favorite part of the Strong Falls experience was walking along the long wooden walkway on top of the river above the fall.
Apart from that, some of the park’s cabins, trails, and bridges date back to the 1930s, so I loved the surrounding area’s cozy aesthetic, which you simply can’t experience in more modern parks.
Where to stay: Cornerstone Cottage – Pembine, WI
4. Long Slide Falls
If you’re up for a hiking adventure, Long Slide Falls is one of the best waterfalls in Northeastern Wisconsin.
It’s not impossible for a beginner to hike, but heads up– the trail won’t be easy either.
Expect plenty of pebbles everywhere and narrow, steep paths when trailing down to reach the waterfall (maybe that’s why it’s a long slide, lol).
But trust me, this hike will be well worth it once you reach the actual falls, as you’ll be welcomed by the stunning Long Slide Falls, its iconic big rocks, and the vibrant trees surrounding it.
Long Slide Falls is less than 15 minutes away from Pembine by car.
Tourists are disappointed that there are no waterfalls in Door County, Wisconsin, and often come to this nearby waterfall instead!
Some paths here surround poison ivy, so wear long pants and watch where you’re stepping.
Where to stay: Cornerstone Cottage – Pembine, WI
5. Marinette County Waterfalls
Marinette Waterfalls isn’t exactly a specific destination like the previous ones are.
Instead, it refers to a collection of over a dozen waterfalls in Marinette County, the waterfalls capital of Wisconsin.
Why did I mention this umbrella term for waterfalls in Northeast Wisconsin?
Well, I want to highlight that almost every waterfall in the city of Marinette is worth the visit.
The best part is that many waterfalls in the area, which often have the best hiking trails in Wisconsin, are within an hour’s drive from one another!
I could enjoy the beauty of Strong Falls, Veteran’s Falls, and McClintock Rapids, each to their full extent, within a day trip.
My only regret during that trip was not bringing binoculars. It would’ve been nice to watch the birds in Northeast Wisconsin up close!
Check out the ultimate hiker gear guide here
6. LaSalle Falls
With a cascading flow that’s longer than it is tall, the forest-tucked LaSalle Falls is one of the best waterfalls in Wisconsin.
It’s one of the most significant falls in the area, and if you decide to hike down the hill to reach its base, you can enjoy canoe or kayak activities.
This waterfall’s trail might only be 2 miles, but it’s not for the weak.
I’m a pretty good hiker, but unexpectedly, I almost slipped twice or thrice while trekking down some of the clay-dense LaSalle Falls trail.
But don’t let the challenging hike scare you.
It should be doable if you’re in pretty good shape and the path isn’t wet.
If anything, this fall’s trail just taught me that hiking in Northern Wisconsin can also be thrilling!
7. Smalley Falls
Smalley Falls must be mentioned When discussing rugged paths that lead to gem-like waterfalls in Northeast Wisconsin.
It’s off the beaten path and has no “formal” trails yet, making chasing waterfalls more adventurous for wannabe explorers like me! (There are no bathrooms, either, by the way.)
So, how does this waterfall’s view compare to other waterfalls in upper Wisconsin?
Well, it’s near Long Slide Falls so you can expect the same vibe and scenery (just on a smaller scale).
However, the unique thing about Smalley Falls is that fewer tourists visit the area. Hence, you can feel the intimacy of exploring nature’s deepest pockets.
Where to stay: Motel 6 – Norway, MI
8. Twelve Foot Falls
Twelve Foot Falls offers one of the most beautiful trails among the waterfalls in northeast Wisconsin.
The paths leading up to it incorporate a manageable mix of rocks, solid dirt, and rugged roots, resulting in a balanced hike that’s neither too laid-back nor hard for anyone to try.
Of course, the fall itself is also a sight to see.
Camp near the waters for the perfect afternoon chill out with your family or friends!
After visiting Twelve Foot Falls, I highly recommend dropping by Eight Foot Falls, which is just on the opposite trail once you’re back in the parking area.
The large rocks surrounding this waterfall’s banks make it possible to see (and feel) the waterfall up close, which I found more exciting than simply observing from afar.
The Twelve Foot Falls and the Eight Foot Falls combined reminded me a lot of the Copper Falls and Brownstone Falls, the “twin” waterfalls in northwestern Wisconsin.
It’s best to see two waterfalls in one go for both locations!
Check out hammocks for camping here
9. Bull Falls
Some say this fall is not worth the hike because it’s “difficult to find.”
But really, sometimes you just need to rely on a good old map of waterfalls in Wisconsin.
I got to the start of the Bulls Falls trail by taking Country K, which is east of US-141.
If I knew it was so close to Dave’s Falls, I would’ve visited both on the same day, but I only realized their proximity when we finished hiking through Bulls Falls.
How would I describe this waterfall?
It’s calm yet exciting.
I say calm because this isn’t exactly a tourist go-to location like other waterfalls and state parks in Wisconsin.
But I say exciting because I managed to catch a trout when we tried fishing in the river!
Buy fishing kayaks on Amazon here
10. Horseshoe Falls
Not to be confused with the giant waterfall with the same name in Niagara Falls, this Horseshoe Falls sits in Northeast Wisconsin, not too far from the 12-foot Falls County Park.
The trail toward this small yet serene waterfall sits in the middle of lush forest greens and bushes.
But don’t worry, it’s not a jungle-like hike.
The path towards Horseshoe Falls is made of firm gravel, apart from a few bulging roots and slippery rocks, so it’s a pretty easy hike.
Where to stay: Cornerstone Cottage – Pembine, WI
Practical Tips for Visitors
A. Safety guidelines
Waterfalls in northeast Wisconsin don’t precisely have the trickiest trails.
But it’s still necessary to follow the safety guidelines of each waterfall to ensure you arrive and come back safely from the waterfall.
Of course, the specific safety guidelines for each waterfall will vary.
But for the most part, you’ll want to stay on designated paths (if there are any), respect the signs, and keep a safe distance from the waterfall.
Also, don’t forget to check weather conditions before starting your hike.
The last thing you’d want to happen is to get trapped in the middle of the storm while going on a tricky trail.
B. Recommended times to visit
If you’re serious about hunting waterfalls in Northeast Wisconsin, the best time to visit the area is during the summer, from June to August.
During these months, the forests’ colors will peak, and the weather (usually 75 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit) will be perfect for long hikes or visiting multiple waterfalls in one day.
There’s no better season than summer to enjoy the beaches in Northeast Wisconsin and the resorts in Northern Wisconsin to the fullest extent. Most of them are near the best lakes in Wisconsin so the view won’t disappoint!
Speaking of lakes, after exploring Northeast Wisconsin, you may also want to explore waterfalls in Northwest Wisconsin.
Western Wisconsin has fewer waterfalls, but it’s home to the renowned Superior Falls, which is right next to Lake Superior. In that part of Wisconsin, you can also try tons of fun things to do in the Apostle Islands!
Book Wisconsin lighthouse tours here
C. Nearby amenities and services
Whether you want to visit waterfalls in Northeast Wisconsin or some of the best waterfalls in Central Wisconsin, it’s pretty evident that, in general, waterfalls in Wisconsin aren’t too hidden from civilization.
Often, restaurants, small shops, and gas stations are conveniently located in nearby towns or cities, just minutes drive from the waterfalls’ trails.
So you can easily access supplies you may need before or after your waterfall adventure.
In addition to the expected restaurants and snack shops, you may also consider visiting wineries in Northeast Wisconsin.
Nothing beats sipping a good glass of wine after fulfilling a traveler’s busy day!
Book Wisconsin food tours here
My final thoughts on waterfalls in northeast Wisconsin
Waterfalls in Northeast Wisconsin are some of the best I’ve visited throughout my travels.
Most are just hours of walking (or minutes of driving) from each other, so you can do it if you have enough energy to visit several falls a day!
Trust me, pictures don’t do justice when it comes to waterfalls.
The best and only way to enjoy the beauty of these wonders is to see them up close, hear their gushes, and feel the wind that touches the mist of waterfalls before kissing your skin.
So, if you’re ever in the area, don’t forget to check out the waterfalls in Northeast Wisconsin.
Do you prefer more accessible hikes or more kid-friendly waterfall experiences?
Then, check out some of the best waterfalls in Southern Wisconsin. Many waterfall parks have family-friendlier trails with a laid-back atmosphere perfect for resting and snacking.
Hola! I’m Paulina, a seasoned travelette who crossed the Atlantic Ocean by Boat HitchHiking. On my blog, find expert insights for an extraordinary holiday through outdoor and sustainable travel like hiking, cycling, and sailing. Let’s embark on unforgettable journeys together! 🌍🚀
