The ultimate list of the best waterfalls near Wisconsin Dells.
Are you longing for a secluded nature trip along rippling waters and wooded trails?
Explore the best waterfalls near Wisconsin Dells and hike spectacular waterfalls and rare rock formations.
While the water parks near Wisconsin Dells are enjoyable, I highly recommend exploring things to do in Wisconsin Dells and discovering the city’s other side.
Wisconsin Dells, also known as “the Dells,” is the waterpark capital of the world, but here’s a fun and remarkable fact: It was the last trace of the ice age about 15,000 years ago and is home to stunning waterfalls.
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Overview: The Best Waterfalls near Wisconsin Dells
- Pewit’s Nest Waterfall
- Dells of the Eau Claire Falls
- Granite Quarry Falls
1. Witches Gulch Waterfall
Witches Gulch Waterfall is a breathtaking canyon in the Midwest surrounded by naturally eccentric and picturesque cliffs.
You’ll hear the rush of waters under the squeezed boardwalk between the enormous out-of-this-world rock formations, which make Witches Gulch one of the top waterfalls in Wisconsin.
The site is only accessible through a two-hour boat tour in the Upper Dells, which also features beautiful stretches of the Wisconsin River.
The tour makes a second stop at Stand Rock, where you can view exciting sandstone pillars and enjoy watching the dog jump between rocks.
Upper Dells has numerous food trucks. Wisconsin cheeses are well worth trying in comfort foods like cheese curds.
2. Pewit’s Nest Waterfall
Named after a shop mechanic who lived above the cliffs, Pewit’s Nest Waterfall features a small waterfall hiding at the core of fascinating sandstone cliffs.
The wooded trail reveals lush trees, such as white pines and yellow birch, with birds chirping all over the forest.
The trail leads to a small sandy beach with large cliffs, like a secret passage to a serene waterfall. Be ready to wade in and swim as you reach this humble wonder.
From here, you can view another small waterfall upstream.
It’s definitely not the largest waterfall in Wisconsin, but I had an amazing time watching the glowing reflection of the waters against the steep rock when the sun came up.
To enter Pewit’s Nest, look for a gravel parking lot along County Road W, just outside Baraboo, WI.
When this easy-to-moderate hike makes you crave, there are cafes and burger diners over a kilometer away.
For me, this is one of the best waterfalls near Wisconsin Dells.
3. Skillet Creek Falls
You must have seen Skillet Creek Falls in paintings and photographs, and yes, this spot exists in real life!
It’s a multi-layered waterfall seated on private property and named after a skillet-shaped rock near the falls.
The falls flow down to Pewit’s Nest until they reach the Baraboo River and are rarely seen in public.
Skillet Creek Falls and Pewit’s Nest are only a few minutes away northwest of the famous Devil’s Lake State Park.
Hiking in Wisconsin Dells is your next ultimate adventure if you’re up exploring multiple natural preserves.
You can find concession areas in Devil’s Lake for food and grocery needs.
4. Parfrey’s Glen Waterfall
Parfrey’s Glen Waterfall follows a close-to-a-mile trail that’s a bit more challenging but still child-friendly.
The trails are usually rocky, with the roots of trees bulging on the ground.
You’ll know you’re approaching the waterfall when more enormous boulders of rocks start showing on your way.
You’ll also pass through a lot of sandstone-walled streams.
To get to Parfrey’s Glen, take Hwy. 113 south out of Baraboo and turn left on Devil’s Lake. The entrance is a few miles down the left.
Convincing the kids to go home is no sweat. Bring them to Culver’s, just west of the Sauk City bridge, or the ferry stations of Wisconsin lakes for ice creams.
5. Dells of the Eau Claire Falls
Soak in nature and hear the revitalizing rapids of the Dells of the Eau Claire Falls.
People are drawn to the biggest waterpark in Wisconsin Dells and have yet to learn what they’re missing from this state nature area and county park.
It boasts a gorge of hard volcanic rocks in the middle of the river, giving way to small but heavy waterfalls. Hikers can follow a section of the Ice Age Trail.
It has 28 campgrounds open from May to October for those who wish to extend their tour or experience nature after enjoying the waterparks near Wisconsin Dells.
Enjoy spring break and add this trek to your things to do in Wisconsin Dells in March.
The campsite is excellent for picnics, so you can buy food along the way or cook and grill in the shelter area.
Dells of the Eau Claire Falls is on County Highway Y and is part of the Wausau area. It is approximately 180 miles north of Milwaukee via I-41, Highway 45, and Highway 52.
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6. Yahara River Parkway Waterfall
Yahara River Parkway was the first parkway constructed in Madison, WI in 1906 when Madison’s citizens called for the preservation of the river.
The river naturally existed, connecting Lake Mendota and Lake Monona.
With the help of Ossian Cole Simonds, a naturalistic park with curving paths was created.
Tourists and the Madison communities now enjoy seven acres of spacious green sceneries and a straightened river, perfect for romantic getaways in Wisconsin Dells.
The parkway is part of Dane County and has a marked post at South Thornton Avenue and Williamson Street.
From breakfast and brunch to hot pot menus, numerous diners and taverns surround the lakes.
7. Fern Dell Gorge Waterfall
Fern Dell is a gorge you’ll love year-round, as every season showcases a unique hiking experience.
The cool weather within the gorge helps enrich the diversity of plant species found within the site, especially ferns.
An opening to the Mirror Lake Gorge, Fern Dell has beautiful wooded paths of white and red pines. But the highlight is the tight squeeze of the Mirror Lake State Park’s layered sandstone walls.
An exciting hunt for your things to do in Wisconsin Dells in winter: Frozen waterfalls-like between the sandstone walls. This natural occurrence is difficult to catch, so you should try it.
To reach Fern Dell, get off Highway 12 at Fern Dell Road. Drive west for about two miles, and the park entrance will be on the right.
Deli cuisines and American bars are familiar go-to places for grubs.
8. Big Bull Falls
Wausau, Wisconsin, used to be the Big Bull Falls. Early voyageurs may have called it the “Big Bubbling Falls” until, over time, it became The Big Bull Falls.
Back then, rapids flow underneath two railroad bridges. But now, it lies submerged beneath the backwater of the Wausau Dam.
Wausau today has Big Bull Falls Park– a 1.6-acre neighborhood park located on the Wisconsin River downtown.
It has fishing access, a picnic area, and a small non-reservable shelter.
Wisconsin River has a variety of world-class restaurants and cafes around.
This park is at 204 Scott Street near Barker-Stewart Island Park in downtown Wausau.
9. Granite Quarry Falls – Montello
Last but not least among the central Wisconsin falls is the Granite Quarry Falls of Daggett Memorial Park.
The historic quarry exhibits four stunning waterfalls walled by the hardest granite in the world. These falls flow down to an emerald-green pool.
The cascades turn into an astonishing sight of dusting snow during winter, so it’s an absolute yes from your list of things to do in Wisconsin Dells in February.
You can get to the Daggett Memorial Park in the little town of Montello in Marquette County, Wisconsin. The waterfalls are sure to catch your eye, making the place easy to find.
There are few restaurants, but there are meals and desserts that every tourist will love.
Practical Tips for Visitors
Most of these waterfalls are within parks that are declared to be natural areas. The moment you arrive, it’s best to know the rules.
These will protect you and the Wisconsin Dells’ natural reserves from danger.
The best time to visit is March, July, and October—the peak months of every season except winter. Expect to see crowds during these months around the best waterfalls near Wisconsin Dells.
There are parks with concessionaire areas and campsites with shelter areas for your food and personal needs.
Check out places to stay in Wisconsin Dells for a more comfortable vacation like this list of Wisconsin Dells Resorts for Adults.
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My final thoughts on the best waterfalls near Wisconsin Dells
Visiting the best waterfalls near Wisconsin Dells was like witnessing the beauty of the ever-changing nature.
The rapids may not be as strong as those of the chasing waterfalls in Wisconsin Dells, but the charm of the Dells of the Eau Claire Falls and Lost Creek Falls is simply unforgettable.
The Witches Gulch Waterfalls has a bizarre but wonderful scenic gorge, and I included icicle hunting in the Fern Dell Gorge, a winter activity, in my list of fun things to do in Wisconsin Dells.
Truly, Wisconsin Dells is a spot of geological and natural beauty. The best waterparks in Wisconsin Dell’s adventures are sure to unwind, but the works of nature will restore your energy and soul.
Let’s travel and unroll the map of waterfalls in Wisconsin!
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! 🌍🚀
