Top 20 Outdoor Adventures in Wisconsin

Nestled along the western edge of Lake Michigan, the Kettle Moraine State Forest’s Northern Unit lies about an hour northwest of Milwaukee, offering a sprawling playground for outdoor enthusiasts. Its Ice Age Trail segment winds through rolling hills sculpted by glaciers, challenging hikers with steep climbs like the Scuppernong Ridge while rewarding them with panoramic views of deep kettles and glacial lakes. Unique to this area is its dramatic topography, rare in otherwise flat Wisconsin, making spring and fall especially captivating when wildflowers bloom or foliage blazes in vibrant hues.

Further north, near the city of Eagle River, the Eagle River Chain of Lakes stands as a water lover’s paradise roughly two hours from Green Bay. Paddleboarders and kayakers can explore interconnected lakes framed by dense forests and occasional sandy beaches. The route from Big Lake to Lynx Lake is particularly popular, weaving through quiet coves perfect for spotting loons and eagles. Summer mornings offer calm waters and a chance to catch mist lifting off the surface, enhancing the serene wilderness vibe.

In the Driftless Area’s southwestern corner, about 90 minutes south of La Crosse, Perrot State Park commands attention with its cliffs overlooking the Mississippi River Valley. The Firelane Trail here is a moderately strenuous loop that traverses wooded ridges and bluff edges, culminating in awe-inspiring overlooks of the river’s winding path. The park’s distinctive karst topography—marked by caves and sinkholes—sets it apart from the rest of the state’s glaciated landscape. Late afternoon light is perfect for photography, casting long shadows and warm tones across the valley.

Heading northeast from Madison by roughly two hours, the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore on Lake Superior’s southern shore presents an aquatic adventure with its sea caves and historic lighthouses. Kayaking along the sandstone caves near the mainland’s Stockton Island reveals sculpted rock formations accessible only by water. Fall is an especially magical time to visit, when the vivid autumn colors reflect off the cold blue waters, and the crowds wane. Guided tours also delve into the islands’ maritime history and Native American heritage, enriching the paddle with stories.

Not far from the twin cities of Minneapolis-St. Paul, about two hours east, the Ice Age National Scenic Trail offers another highlight at Devil’s Lake State Park near Baraboo. The park’s signature trail ascends to the East and West Bluff overlooks, dramatic quartzite cliffs rising 500 feet above the lake. The trail’s steep switchbacks and rocky terrain test hikers, but the summit views of the shimmering lake surrounded by forested hills reward every step. Spring’s wildflower blooms and summer’s warm weather draw large crowds, but early morning hikes can provide quiet solitude.