7 Wisconsin waterfalls you can actually swim in

Check out these seven waterfalls in Wisconsin that you can dive into for a magical swim. 

Water is incredibly powerful. So powerful, in fact, that it’s been able to carve and erode beautiful scenic rock formations for billions of years. With Wisconsin being home to over 800 miles of Great Lakes shoreline, including Lake Michigan and Lake Superior, we have our share of natural wonders thanks to water. 

Some of those fabulous formations include over 400 waterfalls in Wisconsin, including quite a few you can swim and wade into. If you’re looking for places to splish and splash beside the pool and love being surrounded by nature, you’ll definitely want to add these seven Wisconsin waterfalls to your bucket list this summer. 

1. Dells of Eau Claire Park

Located in the town of Plover, the waterfall at the Dells of Eau Claire Park isn’t just a great place to take a dip. The waterfall and surrounding rock formations are known for their unique geological features, including volcanic rock palisades and the gorgeous views carved in the rock by the falling water.

Around the falls area, there is about a 1.0-mile trail you can hike that’s considered easy and accessible. Access to the waterfall, beach area, and campsite are easy to reach, with amenities like picnic tables, open shelters, grills, and bathrooms. Consider making your waterfall adventure a whole-day excursion at the Dells of Eau Claire.

2. Amnicon Falls

Amnicon Falls State Park is home to several beautiful waterfalls, thanks to the Douglas Fault. The Upper Falls area tells a fascinating story of an earthquake and volcano that happened half a billion years ago, leaving behind dark basalt (remaining hard lava) and sandstone in the Lower Falls space. Although we don’t think of Wisconsin as home to earthquakes, volcanoes, and other natural wonders, Amnicon Falls paints a lasting picture of these events that took place so long ago.

Take in the gorgeous Amnicon Falls from a footbridge or during a 2.0-mile hike around the area. The trails in the area around the falls aren’t steep, making this a visit for people of all ages and abilities. Swimming and wading in the falls are allowed, but be on the lookout for slippery rocks and fluctuating water levels. 

3. Potato River Falls

Come to the town of Gurney (about 20 miles West of Hurley, WI) and take in the beautiful sights of the Upper and Lower Potato River Falls. This waterfall features a 90-foot drop over the Upper and Lower Falls into Bad River. You’ll enjoy swimming and exploring the river when you get to the base of the Lower Falls area. 

You can access both falls from a parking area. While the trek isn’t long, it is steep, including 131 steps to the Upper observation area and 204 steps to the Lower observation area. Visitors rave about the sights but repeatedly warn that the trek up and down the falls is a bit difficult. 

4. Lake Redstone Waterfall

Redstone Waterfall is one of the best-kept secrets in the small village of La Valle, WI. The waterfall in Lake Redstone County Park is a remote area with a swimming hole at the base of the fall — a perfect place to splish and splash in that won’t be overcrowded. 

Although the waterfall isn’t naturally occurring, the clean and cool water flows freely (with the help of a dam) and makes for a relaxing nature day for all who visit. Between the beach, playground, and waterfall area, it’s about 30 acres, giving you easy access to all the park has to offer. 

5. Lost Creek Falls

Located southwest of Cornucopia, in Bayfield County, is the lovely Lost Creek Falls. These falls feature an 8-foot plunge, in addition to cascades. There’s also a smaller 3-foot cascade a short distance downstream, making it a great place to wade in and cool off. 

The hike to these falls is moderately difficult, spanning about 2.0 miles round trip. You’ll cross two bridges through the woods on your way to the falls. Be sure to pack plenty of bug spray for your journey through the dense but delightful forested paths, and make sure to take a stroll behind the waterfall — something that makes Lost Creek Falls stand out among other waterfalls in Wisconsin. 

6. Morgan Falls

Tucked away in Marengo is the gorgeous Morgan Falls, flowing 80 to 100 feet over granite ledges. The falls weave into a small pool you can wade into at the very bottom  — perfect for a quick dip after you explore. To see the falls from all angles, take an easy 1.2-mile roundtrip hike from the parking lot. 

If you’re feeling adventurous during your trek to Morgan Falls, continue another 1.5 miles to St. Peter’s Dome (affectionately known as Old Baldy). Its high point ensures incredible views of Lake Superior and the Apostle Islands. The additional hike is much more steep and rugged than the path to Morgan Falls. 

7. Dave’s Falls 

Located in Marinette County, this small but mighty waterfall will be the picture-perfect spot to hang back, chill, and go for a swim. Divide into an Upper Falls and Lower Falls section, Dave’s Falls is a fairly easy-to-access spot. Although the distance isn’t far, be aware of rouge rocks and roots on the path leading to the falls. 

Enjoy the scenic beauty of the river right before the falls from a wooden footbridge as you hike. The further up the falls you go, the more difficult the hike is. But for those who want dazzling rapids, a safe place to swim, and a picnic-perfect place to spend the day, the Lower Falls is minutes away from the parking lot. 

This article first appeared on Good Info News Wire and is republished here under a Creative Commons license.