Bayfield, Wisconsin, may be best known as the gateway city to the Apostle Islands, but our charming town is also an excellent place to explore the great outdoors. The outdoor adventures are limitless whether you are interested in hiking, paddling, biking, fishing, bird watching, or chasing waterfalls. This summer, we invite you to plan a day trip from Bayfield to see some of the most beautiful waterfalls in Northern Wisconsin. There are 25 spectacular waterfalls along the Southern Shores of Lake Superior, with five of them right in Bayfield County. Stay with us at Old Rittenhouse Inn and discover the beautiful waterfalls near our historic inn!
Houghton Falls State Natural Area
Ten miles from Old Rittenhouse, you will find the 70-acre Houghton Falls Natural Area. Once you arrive at the parking lot, you will take the wooded trail to see a series of small waterfalls known as Echo Dells. As you continue further down the path, you will find Houghton Falls and picturesque views from the Lake Superior shoreline.
Potato River Falls
Potato River Falls is an impressive Northern Wisconsin waterfall, a 50-minute drive away from Houghton Falls. This easily accessible 50-foot waterfall can be seen by taking the maintained trail from the parking lot. You will be rewarded with an observation deck with fantastic fall views!
Superior Falls
Superior Falls is one of the tallest waterfalls in Wisconsin, cascading around 110 feet into the Montreal River. The falls get their namesake from the proximity to Lake Superior. You can view the falls from the parking lot or try adventuring down the steep trail for a closer look.
Saxon Falls
Five miles down the road from Superior Falls, you can visit Saxon Falls at the site of a dam. Park by the powerhouse to access the trail to the overlook. You will see Saxon Falls from the top and one of the deepest gorges in the midwest.
Copper Falls State Park
Copper Falls State Park is a must-visit during your Northern Wisconsin waterfall tour. This impressive state park is home to ancient lava flows, deep gorges, and spectacular waterfalls. Doughboys Nature Trail is a 1.7-mile route that will take you past Copper Falls, Brownstone Falls, and the Tyler Forks cascades.
Northern Wisconsin Bed and Breakfast
Northern Wisconsin Bed and BreakfastBegin your tour of the best waterfalls in Northern Wisconsin from Old Rittenhouse Inn. Our Bayfield bed and breakfast offers spectacular views of Lake Superior from our cozy accommodations. Choose from our 12 guest rooms and luxury suites, and experience the charm of our Queen Anne Victorian mansion. Explore the great outdoors around Bayfield this summer!