Big Manitou Falls Loop

The Big Manitou Falls Loop is approximately 0.9 km (0.6 miles) long and generally takes about 15 minutes to complete. This duration is for the short loop directly around Big Manitou Falls. If you opt for the longer loop that includes Little Manitou Falls, it will take longer.

Yes, the trail is generally considered easy and suitable for most fitness levels, including families with young children. However, there are sections with some moderate steepness and stairs, particularly on the Big Manitou Falls River Trail portion, which loses almost 200 feet of elevation. Shorter, more accessible walks directly to the waterfalls are also available from parking areas.

The primary highlight is Big Manitou Falls, Wisconsin's tallest waterfall, cascading 165 feet. You'll also see Little Manitou Falls, a beautiful 30-foot waterfall. The trail offers multiple lookout spots for stunning views of both falls, and you can observe towering sandstone and basalt cliffs along the Black River. A pedestrian tunnel provides access to additional viewing spots.

The trail winds through a diverse forest of balsam fir, spruce, aspen, and maple trees. Portions of the trail may include paved sections, wooden staircases, and viewing platforms. You'll follow the Black River, and some sections involve moderate steepness and stairs, especially near Big Manitou Falls.

Pattison State Park, where the trail is located, is home to nearly 200 species of birds and 54 species of mammals. Keep an eye out for various bird species and smaller mammals as you hike through the forest.

The trail is beautiful year-round. Spring offers strong water flow over the falls due to runoff, making for a dramatic spectacle. Fall brings vibrant foliage. While accessible in winter, conditions may vary, so check local reports. The trail is generally less crowded during off-peak seasons.

Parking is available within Pattison State Park, which provides direct access to the trailheads for both Big Manitou Falls and Little Manitou Falls. There are multiple parking areas designed for visitors to reach the waterfalls and the loop trail.

Yes, as the Big Manitou Falls Loop is located within Pattison State Park, a Wisconsin State Park System vehicle admission sticker is required for entry. You can find more information on fees and permits on the official Wisconsin DNR website: wisconsin.gov.

Yes, leashed dogs are permitted on the trail. Please ensure your dog remains on a leash at all times and that you clean up after them to maintain the park's natural beauty.

Yes, a portion of this loop coincides with the North Country National Scenic Trail (WI), a much longer route spanning several states. You may also find sections of the Beaver Trail intersecting or running concurrently with parts of the loop.

If time is a concern, you can opt for shorter walks directly to the waterfalls from nearby parking areas within Pattison State Park. This allows you to experience the impressive views of Big Manitou Falls and Little Manitou Falls without committing to the full loop trail.