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Hike to Big and Little Manitou Falls in Pattison State Park

Superior, Wisconsin

4.0/5
based on 1 reviews

Details

Distance

2 miles

Route Type

Out-and-Back

Description

Added by Joe Whitson

Discover three waterfalls including the 165 ft. Big Manitou Falls. Hike through red pine and cedar forest. Paddle the lakes and explore the many islands and inlets.

Pattison State Park is a Northwoods paradise. Home to Big and Little Manitou Falls, water is a main attraction here. Big Manitou Falls is across the highway from the main park (accessible by a tunnel) and is the fourth tallest waterfall east of the rocky mountains. This is a great place to start your day - a quick walk and big return on your investment. The 165 ft drop flows into a foggy canyon, making it difficult to capture the entire falls in a single photograph. Cross back to the main part of the park and hike up the river a mile or so to Little Manitou falls. While only a trifling 31 ft drop, the smaller falls is the more impressive. The river, swollen with snowmelt, is worth spending some time exploring as well and an easy trail loops around the park, crossing the river near the falls. Head back to Interfalls Lake for some paddling or swimming.

Skip Superior, WI on your way back and head into Duluth, MN for dinner, a beer, and some music at Fitger's Brewhouse.

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Features

Stand Up Paddle
Camping
Photography
Kayaking
Swimming
Snowshoeing
Hiking
Bathrooms
Beach
Easy Parking
Family Friendly
Forest
Groups
Lake
Picnic Area
River
Scenic
Waterfall
Wildlife
Swimming Hole

Hike to Big and Little Manitou Falls in Pattison State Park Reviews

The waterfall is the tallest in Wisconsin. The state park is beautiful with a little beach on the lake. You can take a little walking tunnel to get to the waterfall from here. There are many places to view it along the Big Manitou Trail (.05 miles). I recommend walking across the foot bridge to the south side and taking the trail all the way down to the stream! Would definitely go again.

Leave No Trace

Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

Nearby

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Bike the Osaugie Trail

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Brewer Park Loop