Wisconsin is home to so many stunning communities, parks and wildlife preserves. So, it’s no wonder that come fall, the state transforms into an autumnal wonderland that feels less like a Midwest destination and more like a picturesque scene that’s straight out of a movie. In honor of the season, here are some of the best places to see fall leaves in Wisconsin from mid-September from October.
[Originally posted October 2022]
Holy Hill
Hubertus
The Holy Hill Basilica and National Shrine of Mary Help of Christians is a Roman Catholic shrine that’s settled in Hubertus and is dedicated to the Blessed Virgin Mary—which makes sense why it’s such an ethereal spot. You don’t need to venture abroad to get a taste of a classically European castle; just simply stop by Holy Hill. While it looks like something straight out of a fairy tale year-round, it’s especially magical when seeking fall leaves in Wisconsin. For more information, visit www.holyhill.com.
Blue Mound State Park
Blue Mounds
Perched atop the highest point in southern Wisconsin at 1,719 feet of elevation is Blue Mound State Park—one of the most popular destinations in the state that’s known for its stunning views and undeniably unique geological features. The area is lush and filled with a vibrant wildlife scene that takes on a whole new kind of beauty in the fall. A Wisconsin State Park System vehicle admission sticker is required to visit. For more information, visit dnr.wisconsin.gov/topic/parks/bluemound.
Peninsula State Park
Fish Creek
Settled within the heart of Door County is Peninsula State Park—a 3,776-acre Wisconsin state park that boasts nearly eight miles of pure Green Bay shoreline. Beyond pristine hiking trails and picturesque bike paths, the state park is loved for its breathtaking, waterside fall foliage. A Wisconsin State Park System vehicle admission sticker is required to visit. For more information, visit dnr.wisconsin.gov/topic/parks/peninsula.
Lapham Peak
Delafield
Those looking to get a glimpse of the state’s prettiest, untouched landscapes will love the sights at Lapham Peak—a glaciated area that’s loved for its unique hiking, backpacking and cross-country trekking options. Plus, those looking to get a different vantage point of the fall leaves in Wisconsin can climb a 45-ft. observation tower that’s located atop the highest point in Waukesha County. A Wisconsin State Park System vehicle admission sticker is required to visit. For more information, visit dnr.wisconsin.gov/topic/parks/laphampeak.