Madison Road Trip

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Waterfalls

Houghton Falls Nature Preserve/Echo Dells

Not to be confused with Houghton Falls, MI, this wonderful preserve is an off-the-beaten track gem. Well groomed trails and wooden paths wind through piney woods, past a small waterfall, sandstone overhangs and a winding creek. The path ends on… Continue Reading →

Upper and Lower Potato River Falls

Expect some stairs when visiting the Potato River Falls. But the climbing is worth the view. Not quite as impressive as Copper Falls, but the red water and rocky falls are still a trip worth making. Sadly, no potatoes spotted… Continue Reading →

Interstate Falls

Not the most romantic of names, nor the most awe-inspiring of falls. But Interstate Falls are still a good hike with a nice waterfall view. Hat tip to Troy Hess, author of Waterfalls of Wisconsin: The Wild Waters of Intrigue,… Continue Reading →

Copper Falls

Copper Falls State Park is one of the most breathtaking parks in Wisconsin. Trails wind along the Bad River, giving visitors fantastic views of canyons and waterfalls. The dark red water, due to the amount of pine tannins in the… Continue Reading →

Devil’s Kettle Trail

The “Devil’s Kettle” may be over-selling it a bit much; sauce-pan may be more apt. But this short trail and kettle – created by a teeny waterfall – is a fun, short hike. The kettle, so round as to appear… Continue Reading →

Lake Redstone

Lake Redstone and its waterfall are a delightful find. A short drive from the Dells, it has a large sandy beach, lots of shady spots to picnic, great boating, and a decent sized waterfall. All in all, a perfect spot to spend a sunny day.

Gabbro Falls

We got the tip-off on these hidden falls from the owner of the Northwoods General Store & Coffee House in Wakefield MI (stop by for ice cream, lattes, toys, maps and tons of other fun tchotchkes!) Head north on Baker… Continue Reading →

The Dells of the Eau Claire River State Natural Area

The Dells of the Eau Claire River State Natural Area is an amazing parcel of land, hidden from view. The trail from the parking lot winds through woods, which soon turn into low, boggy areas (very probably buggy in warm… Continue Reading →

Governor Dodge State Park

Governor Dodge State Park is a vast 5,000+ acre park only an hour drive from Madison. A true four-season park, it has a vast variety of things to see and do. There are high meadow hikes, a waterfall, winding gorge… Continue Reading →

Pewit’s Nest State Natural Area

Pewit’s Nest State Natural Area is a surprise hidden in the rolling fields around Baraboo. The entrance and parking lot is tucked in the sharp curve of County Road W. Up a short path is a beautiful little sandy pool,… Continue Reading →

Porcupine Mountains (The Porkies)

Few places in the Midwest are as gorgeous the Porcupine Mountains. Located on the edge of The Upper Peninsula (Da Yoop) on Lake Superior, this area is “Peter Jackson Eat Your Heart Out” gorgeous. Dotted with fantastic waterfalls, pristine (and… Continue Reading →