Every season of the year is an exciting time to explore Wisconsin’s boundless natural settings, from famous caves to sparkling blue lakes. Let’s look at some appealing outdoor destinations that Wisconsin offers.
Apostle Islands National Lakeshore
Apostle Islands National Lakeshore is a sprawling area along Lake Superior encompassing miles of shoreline and more than 21 small islands. This area has marinas that are hubs for boating and fishing and scenic trails along its islands.
Copper Falls State Park
Copper Falls State Park, stretching over 3,000 acres, is popular among hikers, bikers, and anglers. The picturesque rapids and waterfalls of the Bad River are visible from nearby trails. The park is also home to native wildlife, including bears, fishers, wolves, and more.
Devil’s Lake State Park
Devil’s Lake State Park sees millions of visitors annually. A short drive from Madison, this park is known for its bluffs overlooking a lush forest and a 360-acre lake. No matter the season, Devil’s Lake is a natural paradise. With more than 400 campsites, this camping hotspot has ample room for visitors to stay in solitude.
Cave of the Mounds
While above ground at Cave of the Mounds, you would never know that a giant subterranean network of incredible caverns is below your feet. Below ground, Cave of the Mounds is a huge limestone cave that has become a popular tourist attraction, with gorgeous geologic formations covering the walls, floor, and ceiling. Visitors can explore this cave by themselves or take one of its guided tours, and the mild but cool temperatures within the cave allow it to be open year-round.
Ice Age National Scenic Trail
The Ice Age National Scenic Trail is a vast trail in Wisconsin that traces where a massive glacier sat just 15,000 years ago. This nearly-1,200-mile trail leads hikers and bikers through forests, rivers, and waterfalls and showcases the edge of where this giant glacier once stood. Brave explorers set out to hike the trail, a multi-month effort, and are rewarded with unmatched views of Wisconsin’s nature.
Pattison State Park
Pattison State Park is a serene natural wonderland on the Black River encompassing more than 1,400 acres. This park is home to Big Manitou Falls, the largest waterfall in the state and over 165 feet tall. The park has trails highlighting its famous waterfalls, a beach, a pleasant lake, and numerous campsites. Native wildlife at Pattison includes bears and more than 200 species of birds.
Olbrich Botanical Gardens
It is hard to match the serenity of strolling through a botanical garden. If visitors want to enjoy an oasis within Wisconsin’s capital city of Madison, Olbrich Botanical Gardens is the place to be. Olbrich Botanical Gardens’s 16-acre outdoor garden features immaculately landscaped displays boasting colorful plants and flowers that bloom across the Midwest. There is also a 10,000-square-foot conservatory that houses tropical and subtropical plants.
