Amnicon Falls State Park
Discover four stunning waterfalls, a historic covered bridge, and scenic river trails in this Wisconsin gem.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Waterfalls are at their peak
Amnicon Falls State Park
Best Time
Waterfalls are at their peak
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover four stunning waterfalls, a historic covered bridge, and scenic river trails in this Wisconsin gem.
"This is one of my favorite spots thus far. So much to see here."
👟 Wear sturdy shoes
Trails can be rocky and root-filled. Good footwear is essential for exploring safely near the falls.
📸 Capture the beauty
Bring your camera! The falls and covered bridge offer stunning photo ops year-round.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Upper and Lower Falls
Amnicon River
Witness the power of cascading water over ancient rock formations. Get up close for an immersive experience.
Snake Pit Falls
Island Trail
Often considered the most picturesque, this fall offers unique perspectives and photo opportunities.
Horton Covered Bridge
Near the park entrance
Step back in time at this historic covered bridge, a charming spot for photos and a glimpse of local heritage.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for the Best Views
Trail Preparedness is Key
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear sturdy shoes
Trails can be rocky and root-filled. Good footwear is essential for exploring safely near the falls.
📸 Capture the beauty
Bring your camera! The falls and covered bridge offer stunning photo ops year-round.
🧊 Winter traction
If visiting in winter, YakTraks or similar traction devices are highly recommended for icy trails.
🗺️ Explore the island
Don't miss hiking around the island for unique views, especially of Snake Pit Falls.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear sturdy shoes
Trails can be rocky and root-filled. Good footwear is essential for exploring safely near the falls.
📸 Capture the beauty
Bring your camera! The falls and covered bridge offer stunning photo ops year-round.
🧊 Winter traction
If visiting in winter, YakTraks or similar traction devices are highly recommended for icy trails.
🗺️ Explore the island
Don't miss hiking around the island for unique views, especially of Snake Pit Falls.
💧 Get close to falls
Sure-footed visitors can get very close to the water, even swim near Lower Falls.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Amnicon Falls State Park for its stunning natural beauty, particularly its multiple waterfalls and the charming covered bridge. The well-maintained trails offer accessible exploration, and many appreciate the opportunity to get close to the water. The park is considered a worthwhile destination for its scenic value and peaceful atmosphere, even drawing praise from those traveling from afar.
"This is one of my favorite spots thus far. So much to see here. We hiked for 3.5 hours and could have truly stayed all day. There are so many waterfalls and picturesque stops. The trails have ones less traveled and still get you back to the trails easy enough to explore and not stress about being lost."
ASHLEY QUINONES
"If you love waterfalls, this wonderful park has several that you can get right in front of, on top of, below, and to the sides. As long as you're sure-footed, you can really get all over them here! You can even swim right up to them in a few spots, like the Lower Falls section.
The trails here are nice, wide, and easy-going for the most part (there are some roots and rocks, but nothing terrible).
There are picnic tables and grills scattered around, and a lot of places to sit on the ground for a more traditional picnic with incredible scenery.
There are several parking locations throughout, and each has some incredibly picturesque views nearby.
Not much in the way of playground equipment that I saw, just a swingset, but there may be more in the campground area (didn't go over to that part).
I didn't notice any shelters, other than the historic covered bridge. Not a deterrent for me, but something to keep in mind if you visit on a rainy day.
This is well worth visiting even from across the country (or from other countries). If you're visiting Wisconsin, this should definitely be on your list. If you live here, but have never been, this is one of the places in our state you should go out of your way to see at least once in your life.
This place is absolutely gorgeous and so worth the drive!
As a side note, not really of any importance to anyone other than me, this review finally puts me at level 10 on Maps. Almost a decade of adding pictures and places, making videos and reviews.
I've always had an incredibly strong wanderlust and love of picture-taking. It brings me great joy showing people the weird and beautiful places to visit in our state (and country).
My hope is that I have helped to inspire others to get out and explore, and maybe shown people things they didn't even know existed.
I've been all over our country, and Wisconsin is an incredibly beautiful place that I don't think most people realize.
Time spent outdoors here is time well spent!"
Nathan Flaminio
"So many waterfalls to see during an interesting and varied hike. We parked in the first available parking lot off of County Road U and then hiked along the edge of the river on the nicely maintained path. The river churns and rolls along next to you as you walk, and the sound and interesting features of the water movement above and below the falls make the hike so enjoyable. After crossing the bridge, don't miss the chance to hike around the island and check out Snake Pit Falls on the far side. It was the most picturesque of them all! The hike around the island is a little more challenging than along the river. Watch your footing throughout the park as it is easy to trip over the rocks and roots on the paths."
Chanelle S
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Amnicon Falls State Park is located in South Range, Wisconsin, about 30 minutes from Duluth, Minnesota. You can reach it via County Road U. Many visitors find it a convenient stop when driving between Chicago and Canada.
Public transport options are very limited in this rural area. It is best to visit Amnicon Falls State Park by car.
The closest major city is Duluth, Minnesota, which is about a 30-minute drive away. Superior, Wisconsin, is even closer.
Yes, there are several parking locations throughout the park, each offering access to different scenic views and trailheads.
Absolutely! Amnicon Falls State Park is a great stop on a road trip from Chicago to Thunder Bay, Canada, following routes like I-90, I-94, US-53, and US-61.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Wisconsin State Parks typically require a park sticker for entry. You can purchase daily or annual passes at the park or online. Check the Wisconsin DNR website for current fees.
Amnicon Falls State Park is open year-round. Specific hours for facilities like visitor centers (if any) may vary seasonally, but the park grounds are generally accessible from dawn to dusk.
No advance booking is typically required for general park entry. However, if you plan to camp, reservations are highly recommended, especially during peak season.
Yes, the park is open year-round and offers a unique winter experience with frozen waterfalls and snow-covered trails. Be prepared for icy conditions. 
While you can get very close to the falls, always exercise caution and be aware of slippery surfaces. Swimming is permitted near Lower Falls, but be mindful of currents.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The park's main attractions are its four waterfalls (Upper, Lower, Snake Pit, and Now & Then Falls), the historic Horton Covered Bridge, and the scenic Amnicon River.
The park has about 1.8 miles of hiking trails, including a nature trail and an easy loop around the falls. These trails are generally well-maintained.
Yes, dogs are welcome on the trails at Amnicon Falls State Park, but they must be leashed.
Yes, there are picnic tables and grills scattered throughout the park, offering beautiful scenery for a meal.
You can explore interesting geological views along the Amnicon River, with the falls and rapids showcasing the power of water erosion.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no restaurants within the park itself. You'll find dining options in the nearby towns of Superior, Wisconsin, or Duluth, Minnesota.
Absolutely! The park has numerous picnic tables and grills, making it a perfect spot for an outdoor meal with scenic views.
Nearby Superior, WI, and Duluth, MN, offer a variety of dining options, from casual eateries to breweries like Ursa Minor Brewing.
The campground offers fire pits and picnic tables at each site, allowing for cooking your own meals.
Since there are no fancy bathrooms, it's best to come prepared for a rustic camping experience. Bring all your food and cooking supplies.
📸 📸 Photography
The areas around all four falls, especially Snake Pit Falls, and the Horton Covered Bridge are prime photography locations.
Yes, the trails allow you to get close to the falls from various angles, making it easy to capture their beauty.
Early morning or late afternoon often provide softer light and fewer crowds, ideal for capturing the falls and bridge.
Winter offers unique photographic opportunities with frozen falls and snow-covered landscapes, though be mindful of icy conditions.
Drone usage is subject to Wisconsin State Park regulations. It's advisable to check the official DNR website for current drone policies before flying.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While there isn't extensive playground equipment, the natural environment itself provides plenty of entertainment. Kids will love getting close to the water (with supervision, of course!) and exploring the island. Remember to bring sturdy shoes for everyone, as the paths can be uneven.
🚶♀️ Hikers and Nature Enthusiasts
For those seeking a deeper connection with nature, the park's open-year-round policy means you can experience its beauty in any season. From the roaring falls of spring to the frozen spectacle of winter, there's always something new to discover.
+1📸 Photographers
Consider visiting during the golden hours of early morning or late afternoon for the best lighting. The changing seasons also provide unique photographic opportunities, from the lush greens of summer to the vibrant colors of autumn and the icy formations of winter.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Waterfalls
The trails are generally well-maintained and easy to navigate, though some sections feature roots and rocks that require attention. The hike around the island, particularly to Snake Pit Falls, is often highlighted as the most picturesque and slightly more challenging.
During spring and early summer, the falls are at their most powerful due to snowmelt and rainfall. In autumn, the surrounding foliage adds a vibrant splash of color to the already stunning scenery. Winter transforms the park into an icy spectacle, with frozen cascades creating a magical, albeit slippery, landscape.
+1The Historic Horton Covered Bridge
Built in the late 19th century, the bridge evokes a sense of nostalgia and is a testament to traditional craftsmanship. Walking across it or viewing it from the riverbanks provides a different, more tranquil experience compared to the dynamic falls. It serves as a focal point for visitors, offering a moment of quiet reflection amidst the natural splendor.
While not as dramatic as the waterfalls, the covered bridge is an essential part of the Amnicon Falls experience, adding historical and architectural interest to the park's natural attractions. It’s a must-see for anyone visiting, offering a different kind of beauty and a chance to appreciate the area's heritage.
Camping and Picnicking
Campers should be prepared for a more rustic experience, as the park notes the absence of 'fancy bathrooms.' This simplicity, however, is part of the charm for many seeking an authentic outdoor escape. The campground is an excellent option for families or individuals wanting to immerse themselves in nature for a weekend getaway.
Beyond camping, the park features numerous picnic areas with tables and grills scattered throughout. These spots are ideal for day visitors looking to enjoy a meal surrounded by the park's scenic beauty. Whether you're camping overnight or just stopping for lunch, the picnic facilities enhance the overall visitor experience.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit