Are you looking for an adventurous vacation spot that offers amazing outdoor activities and breathtaking natural beauty? A visit to Copper Falls State Park in Wisconsin should be on your list. This state park spans over 3,000 acres and features picturesque waterfalls, rugged trails, and stunning scenery. Whether you’re a hiker, backpacker, or nature enthusiast, Copper Falls State Park has something for everyone. From stunning views to relaxing picnic spots, a trip to this park is a must-have experience. Let’s take a closer look at what makes this park so special, along with my picks for best hikes at Copper Falls!
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History of the Park
Nestled in the heart of Wisconsin lies Copper Falls State Park, a gem of natural beauty and historical significance. Indigenous tribes, including the Ojibwe and Menominee, once called this land home, and their enduring presence can still be felt amongst the babbling streams and lush forests. But the park’s history goes even deeper than human habitation, with geologic formations dating back billions of years to the Precambrian era. It wasn’t until the early 1920s that this land was designated as a state park, preserving its beauty and history for future generations to enjoy and appreciate. Today, Copper Falls State Park remains a popular destination for nature lovers, hikers, and history enthusiasts alike.
Best Time to Visit
If you’re planning a trip to Copper Falls State Park in Wisconsin, it’s important to consider the weather you’ll encounter. The park experiences four distinct seasons, each with its unique climate and outdoor activities. During summer, temperatures range from 70-80 degrees Fahrenheit, making it perfect for camping and hiking. Winter is the time for snow sports like cross-country skiing and snowshoeing, where temperatures dip to 0 degrees Fahrenheit. If you’re looking to catch autumn colors, mid-September to mid-October is the best time to visit, and spring is known for its rain showers and budding flowers. So whether you prefer the heat or the cold, there’s never a bad time to visit Copper Falls State Park and enjoy the natural beauty of Wisconsin.
Camping at Copper Falls State Park
If you’re looking for a great camping spot in Wisconsin, Copper Falls State Park is definitely worth checking out. The park has two campgrounds to choose from: the North Campground and the South Campground. The North Campground is perfect for those who want to be close to the main picnic area, and it has 32 sites available. While there are only 4 non-electric sites, there are 28 sites with electrical hookups, so you’ll have the option to bring along your RV if you’d like.
The campground also has two vault toilets and water fountains. If you’re looking for a more secluded camping experience, the South Campground is nestled in a valley and has 23 non-electric sites available. Four of these sites are walk-in, which means you’ll get to enjoy a bit of extra peace and quiet. The backpack campsite is also a great option if you’re up for a bit of a challenge, but make sure to book in advance to secure your spot! Overall, Copper Falls State Park is a beautiful and peaceful place to camp and enjoy the great outdoors.
What to Do at Copper Falls
Trails
Copper Falls State Park offers over 15 miles of hiking trails, ranging from easy to challenging trails. One of the popular trails is the Doughboy’s Trail that extends for a mile and leads you through the forest alongside the Bad River. It’s an easy trail suitable for all hikers. If you’re looking for a more challenging hike, try the North Country National Scenic Trail, which passes through the park. This trail is for experienced hikers and backpackers, and it offers stunning views of the park’s waterfalls and scenery. Before you begin your hike, make sure to pick up a map at the park’s visitor center.
Waterfalls
The park is known for its stunning waterfalls. The centerpiece of the park is Copper Falls, a 60-foot waterfall that cascades into a scenic gorge. You can view the waterfall from a two-level observation platform or hike down to the gorge to see it closer. In addition to Copper Falls, the park also features Brownstone Falls, which is a smaller waterfall that can be viewed from above, as well as picturesque cascading rapids.
Picnic Spots and Wildlife
Copper Falls is also a great place to spend a relaxing day with family and friends. The park has several picnic areas with tables, benches, and grills scattered throughout the park, many of which offer stunning views of the waterfalls and surrounding beauty. You can also have a picnic near the Lake of the Falls, which is another scenic spot in the park to enjoy.
Copper Falls State Park is home to various wildlife species, including white-tailed deer, black bears, and raccoons. The park is also an excellent destination for bird-watching enthusiasts, with over 200 bird species calling the park home. Birdwatchers may find migratory birds stopping in the park during their migration.
Best Hikes at Copper Falls
Doughboy’s Nature Loop Trail
If you’re looking for a peaceful hike in the heart of nature, you have to check out Doughboy’s Nature Loop Trail at Copper Falls State Park. This 1.7-mile trail is the perfect way to spend an afternoon, taking in the amazing views of Copper Falls, Brownstone Falls and the Tyler Forks cascades. The well-maintained trail features mature hardwoods, old-growth Eastern hemlock, Eastern white cedar, old-growth pine, and the occasional wildlife sighting.
Keep in mind that parts of the trail are inaccessible during the winter due to ice and snow, but during the warmer months, the accessible 0.5 miles of the trail is perfect for anyone. You can find the trailhead near the concession building, and the North Country Trail runs along the eastern section of the Doughboys’ Trail. You won’t regret exploring this stunning trail and all that it has to offer in terms of terrain and elevation changes.
Meadow Trail
If you’re looking for a moderately easy and rewarding hike, the Meadow Trail at Copper Falls State Park in Wisconsin is definitely worth checking out. At 1.5 miles in length, it’s perfect for a morning or afternoon adventure. The trail, located just south of the beach, offers a gently rolling, looped path that takes hikers along the park’s wooded perimeter. Along the way, you’ll get to take in views of the recovering forest, and if you’re lucky, spot some of the local wildlife like songbirds, whitetail deer, and butterflies. One thing to keep in mind, however, is that the trail can be a little soggy at times due to the high amounts of rainfall in the area. The birds and spring wildflowers make this one of the best hikes at Copper Falls. Regardless, it’s a great place to get outside and soak up the natural beauty of Wisconsin.
Vahtera Loop Trail
Nestled in the heart of Copper Falls State Park, the Vahtera Trail is a must-do for any outdoor enthusiast. This 1.7-mile trail cuts through an array of northern hardwood, hemlock stands, and pine forest. It also offers some stunning views of the region. If you’re looking for a more leisurely stroll, consider tackling the 1.2-mile inner loop, which features a tranquil beaver pond surrounded by Eastern hemlock. Meanwhile, the 1.7-mile outer loop is a bit more challenging, with hilly terrain that will get your heart pumping. But the effort is well worth it — you’ll weave through glacial deposits and enjoy a moderate downhill section that will leave you gasping. To access the trail, park at the Ballfield Parking Lot and get ready for an unforgettable hike or bike ride on some of Wisconsin’s most beautiful terrain.
Waterfall Trail
Hiking the Waterfall Trail at Copper Falls State Park in Wisconsin is an unforgettable experience. The 1-mile loop of the Purple trail offers a fantastic winter adventure for those looking to explore the outdoors. Accessed from the park’s north end, this multi-use winter trail grants easy access to both Copper Falls and Brownstone Falls. Even with its snow-covered terrain, the trail is perfect for snowshoeing or walking as it is rolled for that purpose, though skiing is permitted. The trailhead location is easy to locate, making it easy to start your journey. Although pets are not allowed on this trail, fear not, the scenery alone will make up for it. The beautiful waterfalls along this trail make it one of the best hikes at Copper Falls. The Waterfall Trail guarantees breathtaking views and is perfect for those looking for a shorter, yet equally as beautiful hiking experience.
Red Granite Falls Trail
Calling all nature enthusiasts! If you’re looking for an adventure, you won’t want to miss hiking the Red Granite Falls Trail at Copper Falls State Park in Wisconsin. Clocking in at 2.5 miles, this trail is perfect for families or groups of explorers looking to take on some of the park’s most varied terrain and ecosystems. Starting at Loon Lake and winding up at Red Granite Falls on the Bad River, the gravel path promises stunning views along the way. Plus, with the trail’s wide and durable gravel surface, you don’t need to worry about the weather or elevation getting in the way of your exploration. The variety of environments along the trail make it one of the best hikes at Copper Falls. So what are you waiting for? Head to Copper Falls State Park for a one-of-a-kind experience on the Red Granite Falls Trail.
What to Wear
My clothing recommendations for hiking at Copper Falls State Park varies depending on when in the season you’re going. If you opt for shorts, I like the Prana double peak shorts, but you might want to start with a pair of warm leggings under them if it’s cold. For hiking pants, my go to are the double peak joggers.
On top, for summer hiking I start with a tri-blend t shirt or tank, and then layer on an SPF pullover if it’s warmer outside, or a smartwool pullover if it’s cold or windy. And I usually carried my rain jacket. Finally, my go to hiking shoes are merrell siren sports. They’re comfortable, waterproof, and have Vibram soles which are super grippy, which you’ll appreciate for hiking on all the limestone and granite out there!
In summary, Copper Falls State Park provides the ideal escape for anyone looking for a natural retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city. With an abundance of hiking trails, magnificent waterfalls, stunning picnic spots, and wildlife sightings, Copper Falls State Park offers an unforgettable experience that will leave you with memories that will last a lifetime. Plan your visit to Copper Falls State Park today and immerse yourself in Wisconsin’s natural beauty!
That’s my list! I hope this helped you plan and get excited for the best hikes at Copper Falls! What are your favorite hikes in this beautiful area?
As always, please practice Leave No Trace principles when enjoying the outdoors! Check local trail and weather conditions before any hike.
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