National Parks and Natural Wonders That Make Wisconsin a Must-Visit
Just a short drive north from Milwaukee, you’ll find the Kettle Moraine State Forest, a sprawling natural wonder that showcases Wisconsin’s unique glacial topography. About 45 minutes northwest of the city, the forest is divided into two units, but the Southern Unit near Whitewater offers some of the most rewarding hikes. The Ice Age National Scenic Trail cuts through here, following the ridges left by receding glaciers thousands of years ago. The Parnell Tower Trail is a standout, climbing about three miles to a fire lookout tower that rewards hikers with panoramic views of rolling moraine hills and serene kettle lakes. This patchwork of hills and wetlands is unlike any other landscape in the Midwest, making it an excellent place for birdwatching and spotting rare plants. Early autumn is especially magical when the foliage turns vibrant reds and golds, adding a fiery backdrop to the rugged terrain.
Further west, near the quaint city of Eau Claire, you can explore the Chippewa River State Trail, which stretches through the scenic river valley. This multi-use trail links Eau Claire to the charming village of Durand, winding close to the Chippewa River’s banks. Cyclists and walkers enjoy the relatively flat, easy route that passes through forests, wetlands, and riverside parks. What makes this trail special is the blend of natural beauty and small-town charm, with plenty of spots to pause at riverside overlooks or local cafés. Springtime brings wildflowers and the cheerful sounds of migrating songbirds, while summer evenings offer stunning sunsets along the water, perfect for a leisurely ride or picnic.
Down in southwestern Wisconsin, about an hour from Madison, the Driftless Area is a geological treasure that defies the flatness typical of much of the Midwest. The richly forested bluffs and deeply carved river valleys here provide a playground for outdoor enthusiasts. In the town of Viroqua, the nearby Blue Mounds State Park boasts the highest point in southern Wisconsin, standing at 1,719 feet. Hiking the Devil’s Doorway Trail, a challenging three-mile loop, leads you through towering oak savannas and offers dramatic views of the surrounding valleys. The park’s unique sandstone cliffs and caves add a sense of adventure. Fall is an ideal time to visit, when the cool air and colorful leaves make the strenuous climb especially rewarding.
If you find yourself near the northern border, just an hour east of Superior, Apostle Islands National Lakeshore on Lake Superior offers a striking coastal wilderness experience. This cluster of 22 islands, accessible by ferry from Bayfield, is renowned for its sea caves, old-growth forests, and sandy beaches. Kayaking around the islands in summer lets you paddle into caves carved by waves and explore secluded bays alive with wildlife. The area’s maritime history is preserved at the Bayfield Maritime Museum, where you can learn about the lighthouse keepers and shipwrecks that shaped the region. Winter transforms the scene entirely: when cold enough, the lake freezes and guides visitors onto the ice to walk to the caves, a surreal and otherworldly adventure not found elsewhere in the state.
Closer to Madison, the University of Wisconsin Arboretum offers a serene sanctuary showcasing Wisconsin’s native ecosystems within city limits. Just a 15-minute drive from downtown, this 1,200-acre site features a network of walking trails through restored prairie, oak savanna, and wetlands. The Prairie Loop Trail is a highlight, winding about two miles through vibrant wildflower meadows buzzing with pollinators. The arboretum’s dedication to ecological restoration makes it a living laboratory and a peaceful retreat. Late spring and early summer bring a burst of color, as prairie grasses sway and wild lupine blooms. It’s a perfect spot for families and nature lovers seeking quiet beauty close to the city.
In northeastern Wisconsin, about 30 minutes from Green Bay, the Niagara Escarpment State Natural Area offers a striking limestone ridge that stretches across the region. The scenic hike to the lookout point on the Escarpment Trail treats visitors to sweeping views of Lake Michigan’s distant waters and the lush forest below. This geologic feature is part of a larger escarpment that extends into Canada and hosts rare plant species adapted to its rocky soils. Fall is prime time to visit when the mix of hardwoods paints the landscape in fiery hues, enhancing the dramatic cliffs and vistas. Birdwatchers also flock here during migration seasons to spot hawks riding the thermals above the ridgeline.
Lastly, the charming town of Bayfield on Lake Superior’s shore serves as the gateway to the Apostle Islands and a destination in its own right. Just under three hours north of Minneapolis and a bit over four from Milwaukee, Bayfield’s historic waterfront district invites visitors to stroll past galleries, eateries, and shops with locally crafted goods. Sampling freshly caught Lake Superior fish at a lakeside eatery or exploring the Bayfield Farmers Market offers a taste of the region’s culinary heritage. The nearby Bayfield Peninsula Scenic Drive provides a leisurely way to soak in farmland, orchards, and forested hillsides. Summer and early fall bring festivals celebrating local culture and the bounty of the lake, making this lakeside village a warm-hearted contrast to Wisconsin’s wild spaces.