Wisconsin is absolutely wonderful – and by that we mean it’s full of natural beauty that never ceases to leave us in awe of the stunning sights ahead. Want proof? We thought you might, which is why we compiled this list of some of the state’s best natural wonders. Brimming with natural beauty and sure to impress, these stunning sites belong on your bucket list. Take a look:
1. Apostle Islands Sea Caves
The most notable feature of the Apostle Islands has got to be the red-brown sandstone sea caves that dot their shores. Thousands of years in the making, the caves were carved out by the mighty waters of Lake Superior. Though a great visit year-round, the caves are especially stunning during winter when filled with dazzling ice formations.
Address: 415 Washington Ave, Bayfield, WI 54814Read more about it right here.
2. Cave of the Mounds
This National Natural Landmark attracts roughly 100,000 visitors per year, which isn’t surprising when you learn that the subterranean wonder boasts an intricate array of stalactites and stalagmites. Thanks to lighted walkways and informative guides, touring the cave, which is 40’ to 70’ below ground, is a breeze.
Address: 2975 Cave of the Mounds Rd, Blue Mounds, WI 53517
Read more about the best time to visit the cave right here.
3. Niagara Escarpment
This Niagara Escarpment is basically a 1,000-mile rock ledge that extends from New York, through Ontario, Michigan, Wisconsin, and Illinois. As the name implies, it’s the cliff that forms the nation’s most notorious waterfall, Niagara Falls. There are several places in Wisconsin where you can view the significant escarpment, including Cave Point County Park (pictured), Peninsula State Park, and High Cliff State Park.
Address: 5360 Schauer Rd, Sturgeon Bay, WI 54235Read more about it right here.
4. Devils Lake State Park Rock Formations
Home to 500’ quartzite bluffs and spectacular rock formations, Devils Lake State Park has been deemed one of the most scenic and geographically interesting places in the state. Among the park’s most recognizable rock formations is a stone arch known as Devils Doorway and Balanced Rock, which, as the name implies, features a large rock resting, or balancing, atop another.
Address: S5975 Park Rd, Baraboo, WI 53913
Read more about it right here.
5. Great Lakes
No list of natural wonders would be complete without mentioning the two Great Lakes that border Wisconsin – Lake Superior and Lake Michigan. Truly great, the lakes provide ample recreational opportunities, including fishing, swimming, sailing, and kayaking – and that’s in addition to magnificent ocean-like vistas.
Address: 1824 Washington Harbor Rd, Washington, WI 54246Read more about it right here.
6. Horicon Marsh
The marsh of all marshes, Horicon Marsh is the largest freshwater cattail marsh in the nation! Its massive size is just one of its notable features, though. It’s also a migratory stop for Canada geese and is home to the largest nesting population of redhead ducks east of the Mississippi, making it a paradise for photographers and bird-watchers.
Address: N7725 WI-28, Horicon, WI 53032Read more about it right here.
7. Big Manitou Falls
Standing at 165’, the aptly-named Big Manitou Falls takes the title of Wisconsin’s tallest waterfall. And at just 2’ shorter than Niagara Falls, it’s the fourth tallest waterfall east of the Rockies! Easily accessible, Big Manitou Falls is located in Pattison State Park. The park is also home to Little Manitou Falls, a smaller, 30’ version of Big Manitou Falls.
Address: 6294 WI-35, Superior, WI 54880 Read more about it right here.
8. Natural Bridge
Of all the natural wonders in Wisconsin, the natural sandstone arch in Natural Bridge State Park is one of the most impressive. Truly a sight to see, the geologic anomaly is the largest natural bridge in the state. But that’s not its only claim to fame. It’s also been determined to be the oldest known site of human habitation in the upper Midwest.
Address: E7992, North Freedom, WI 53951
Read more about it right here.
9. Interstate State Park
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Wisconsin’s oldest state park just so happens to be home to one of the state’s best natural wonders - the Dalles of the St. Croix River. An incredible geologic gem, the Dalles formed when melted glacier water flowed through the St. Croix valley, carving gorges and cliffs into the hard basalt lava rock that filled the area. In addition to the Dalles, the park offers lots of opportunities for outdoor fun, including hiking, camping, fishing, and rock climbing.
Address: WI-35, St Croix Falls, WI 54024
Read more about it right here.
Did you know Wisconsin was home to these incredible wonders? Have you already visited any, or all, of them? What would you add to this list? Tell us in the comments section.
These aren’t the only wonderful sites in Wisconsin. Read about another here.
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