Wisconsin is home to stunning natural wonders and scenic hot spots that stretch from the majestic Lake Superior shoreline to the western coast of Lake Michigan. It would take a lifetime to visit them all, but we know of a handful of spots that can help you take the edge off your curiosity about Wisconsin’s breathtaking sights. In fact, here’s a look at some of the state’s most enchanting landmarks.
Pattison State Park
Across the 1,436 acres of Pattison State Park is a gorgeous forest surrounded by family campsites, wildlife habitats, and more than seven miles of hiking trails. Follow the main trail for a scenic trip along the Black River and toward vantage points with incredible views of the areas two waterfalls. The first is Big Manitou Falls, the highest in the state with a 165-foot drop. The second is Little Manitou Falls at 31 feet high. Other points of interest include three cross-country ski loops and a 300-foot sand beach on Lake Superior with ample sunning spots and nearby picnicking opportunities.
Cave of the Mounds
Cave of the Mounds is home to stunning crystallized rock specimens dating back 500 million years. They were first discovered in 1939 and received a National Natural Landmark designation in 1988. In addition to miles of intricate limestone formations, you’ll find glistening pools, beautiful outdoor gardens, and scenic trails past rolling grasslands, woodland forests, and steep sinkholes. Meanwhile, the kids can dig for gemstones and fossils and visit the gift shop to pick up their very own colorful geode souvenirs.
Apostle Islands National Lakeshore
The Apostle Islands National Lakeshore is a scenic archipelago that serves as a gateway for water activities such as boating, fishing, sailing, and kayaking. You’ll also find miles of maintained hiking trails, majestic sandstone cliffs, historic lighthouses, and a series of shipwreck remains. If you need another cool thing to do, check out the western mainland portion that blooms stunning ice caves in the winter.
Witches Gulch
Witches Gulch is a truly unique oasis of moss-covered sandstone formations first discovered by landscape photographer Henry Hamilton Bennet in the late nineteenth century. Getting to the gulch is only possible via the Upper Dells Boat Tour and once you’re there, you’ll immediately fall in love with the stunning canyon backdrop. Take a 2-mile loop trail through a hardwood forest with towering rock formations and sidewall torches as your guides. Be sure to take plenty of photos and stop by the small souvenir shop before you go.
Devil’s Lake State Park
You’ll never run out of things to do at Devil’s Lake State Park. This expansive greenscape is one of the oldest and most visited landmarks in the state. It offers gorgeous sandy beaches, scenic hiking trails, and geologic treasures such as 500-foot quartzite rock bluffs with stunning views of Devil’s Lake. Other attractions include lush forests, hundreds of plants and wildlife species, and a nature center with educational exhibits and interactive, hands-on activities.
Your Wisconsin road trip wouldn’t be complete without a stop at one of these famous natural landmarks. Which one are you most excited to visit?
Image via Flickr by aarongunnar
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