Options for fall splendor are limitless in Wisconsin
Wisconsin is truly awash in fiery fall colors from October through early November. To help you plan your excursions, be sure to check out the Fall Color Report to see when and where colors are at their peak. The Wisconsin Department of Tourism, through Travel Wisconsin, shares a wealth of fall events and activities for your enjoyment. As they say, "Put the Awe in Autumn."
Some of the best autumn scenery in the state can be enjoyed at the many Wisconsin State Parks. The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) lists 50 state parks and recreation areas, covering nearly 156,000 acres, which attract over 20 million visitors annually.
Beyond the state parks, Door County and the Driftless Area are known for their picturesque fall vistas. You can also enjoy a bird's-eye view of the Wisconsin River Valley without breaking a sweat by taking the scenic chairlift ride at Granite Peak Ski Area in Wausau.
Fall is a fantastic time of year to enjoy hiking in Wisconsin. Hikers can find more than 2,700 miles of trail at Wisconsin state park properties, perfect for everything from short distances to multi-day excursions. Wisconsin is one of the only states to have two National Scenic Trails: the Ice Age Trail and the North Country Trail (found in the northwest corner of the state).
Take a bike ride on one of the many fantastic Wisconsin Bike Trails. Among the popular choices each fall are the Elroy-Sparta Trail, the Badger State Trail, and the Fox River State Trail. Outagamie County also maintains four trail systems for biking or hiking throughout the county.
If driving is your preference, Travel Wisconsin lists eleven scenic fall drives. A top recommendation is the Kettle Moraine Scenic Drive, which takes you through both the north and south units of the Kettle Moraine State Forest, offering some of the best fall scenery in the state.
Fall is the perfect time to visit local wineries, as harvest events are taking place at wineries and vineyards around the state. Travel Wisconsin has a great list of Wisconsin wineries to explore.
To plan your outdoor adventure, the DNR's "Find A Park" page allows you to filter and search properties by various activities such as hiking, biking, horseback riding, or other amenities, including accessible features. Visitors can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities, nature events, and conservation presentations at the state park properties.
