Big Manitou Falls

Big Manitou Falls is the tallest waterfall in Wisconsin at 165 feet, a dramatic plunge on the Black River within Pattison State Park. The river drops in a series of cascades and a final powerful plunge over dark basalt and brownstone, with the spray creating a misty veil visible from multiple overlooks along the gorge rim. The falls are part of the same ancient volcanic rock formation that underlies much of the Lake Superior basin, and the dark, iron-rich stone gives the water a distinctive amber tint as it churns through the gorge below.

The falls are accessible via a network of short trails from the main picnic area, accessed through a pedestrian tunnel under the park road. The Big Manitou Falls River Trail runs along the gorge for about half a mile downstream, with several overlooks providing different perspectives of the falls and gorge from both sides of the Black River. The overlooks are reached by relatively easy walking, though some viewpoints require descending stairs. The park has over 7 miles of trails total.

Spring snowmelt produces the most impressive water flow, transforming the falls into a thundering spectacle. Summer brings comfortable temperatures and lush forest. Fall foliage in northern Wisconsin is stunning, typically peaking in mid to late September. The park also features Little Manitou Falls, a 31-foot cascade further downstream. Pattison State Park offers camping, swimming in Interfalls Lake, and picnic facilities, making it an excellent full-day destination.