Fall is a wonderful time to visit northern Wisconsin, where the forests and hillsides are ablaze with vibrant colors of red, yellow, orange and purple. Whether you are looking for a scenic drive, a hiking adventure, a relaxing getaway or a family-friendly outing, there are plenty of ways to enjoy the fall foliage in this beautiful region. Here are some tips and suggestions on how to view the fall colors in northern Wisconsin and where to go for the best views.
Franklin Lake Nature Trail Fall Colors
How to View the Fall Colors
The best way to view the fall colors is to get outside and explore the natural beauty of northern Wisconsin. There are many options for outdoor recreation, such as hiking, biking, kayaking, canoeing, fishing, golfing and more. You can also take advantage of the many scenic overlooks, parks, trails and wildlife areas that offer stunning views of the changing leaves.
One of the most popular ways to view the fall colors is by taking a scenic drive along the country roads and highways that wind through the forests and hills. You can follow one of the many designated fall color routes that showcase the best scenery in each county, or create your own itinerary based on your interests and preferences. A great way to see some northern Wisconsin color is The Northwoods Fall Art Tour. This route covers 90 miles through Vilas, Oneida and Iron counties in northern Wisconsin, where you can visit over 30 artists’ studios and galleries that showcase their work in various media. You can also enjoy the scenic views of lakes, rivers and forests along the way.
Where to Go for the Best Views
Northern Wisconsin is home to some of the most spectacular fall color viewing spots in the state, where you can see a variety of trees and plants that create a stunning contrast of hues. Some of the best places to go for fall color viewing include:
– Bayfield County: This county is located on the shores of Lake Superior and offers breathtaking views of the lake and the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore. One of the best places to view fall colors is the Juniper Rock Overlook, which offers a panoramic view of the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest and Lake Superior.
– Price County: This county is located in central northern Wisconsin and boasts some of the highest elevations in the state. One of the best places to view fall colors is Timm’s Hill, which is the highest point in Wisconsin at 1,951 feet above sea level. You can climb up a 60-foot observation tower and enjoy a 360-degree view of the surrounding countryside.
– Washburn County: This county is located in northwestern Wisconsin and features over 950 lakes and rivers that reflect the fall colors. One of the best places to view fall colors is Hunt Hill Audubon Sanctuary, which is a 600-acre nature preserve that offers hiking trails, wildlife viewing and educational programs.
– Sawyer County: This county is located in northeastern Wisconsin and is part of the Hayward Lakes area, which is known for its fishing and outdoor recreation opportunities. One of the best places to view fall colors is Lost Land Lake Lodge, which is a historic resort that offers cozy cabins, boat rentals and a restaurant overlooking Lost Land Lake.
– There are also amazing viewing locations scattered across northern Wisconsin. One such location is Corrigan’s Lookout.
Fall Colors at Corrigan’s Lookout
When to Go for Peak Colors
The peak time for fall colors in northern Wisconsin varies depending on the weather conditions, elevation and tree species. Generally speaking, peak color usually occurs in mid-September to early October in northern Wisconsin, but it can vary by a week or two depending on factors such as temperature, rainfall and sunlight.
To plan your trip accordingly, you can check out the official Travel Wisconsin Fall Color Report, which provides updated information on the percentage of peak color in each county across the state. You can also sign up for email alerts or download an app that will notify you when your favorite destinations reach peak color.
Fall colors in northern Wisconsin are a sight to behold, and there are many ways to enjoy them. Whether you prefer a scenic drive, a hiking adventure, a relaxing getaway or a family-friendly outing, you can find something that suits your taste and budget in this beautiful region. Don’t miss this opportunity to witness one of nature’s most spectacular shows and create lasting memories with your loved ones. Happy leaf peeping!