The Top Fall Color Viewing Spots in Northern Wisconsin

I Spy with My Little Eye the Top Fall Color Viewing Spots in Northern Wisconsin

With splashes of vibrant colors like red, yellow, green, orange and purple – the fall landscape in Northern Wisconsin is one that can’t be missed. Stunning 360° views of tamaracks, maples, and oaks fill the region of the Northwoods. No matter where you go, there are fall color viewing spots to find. We’ve gathered four of the greats in the region for you to check out on your next Sunday drive.

Bayfield County Autumn Getaway

In Bayfield County, one of the best places to view fall colors is the Juniper Rock Overlook. Located between Grand View and Cable in the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest. It is a 2-mile round trip hike and peaks at a sixty-foot cliff overlooking the vast forest. The trail is uneven but manageable for all skill levels. To get there, take County Hwy D south from Grand View, turn left on Club Lake Rd., and then left again on Old Grade Rd/FR 202. Continue past Wisco Rd/FR 378 until you see a parking area on the right side of the road. Grab your hiking boots and your camera – it’s an incredible sight to see!

Fall colors in Bayfield County

Fall in Love with Price County

Get the ultimate view of fall colors from the highest point in the state – Timm’s Hill in Ogema. A scenic drive down rustic roads and a quick 0.4 mile hike up the hill will bring you to the observation tower, where you can see for miles from the top of the 1,951 feet of elevation. Round out your trip with a picnic at the foot of the hill or meal at a quaint local cafe.

Fall colors in Price County

Soak in the Fall Colors in Washburn County

Not every fall color viewing spot needs to involve hiking and biking (although we recommend it!). Hop aboard the Wine and Cheese Train Ride on the Wisconsin Great Northern Railroad. Soak in the fall colors, Wisconsin-made wine and cheese, and the flowing waters of the Namekagon River while you experience a one-of-a-kind trip. Visit the Spooner Train Ride to book your 2-hour fall color getaway today!  

Fall colors in Washburn County

Experience the Vibrant Colors in Sawyer County/Hayward Lakes

There is an abundance of beautiful places to see the fall colors in Sawyer County and the Hayward Lakes area. Climb into the mouth of the giant muskie at the National Freshwater Fishing Hall of Fame for an elevated view of downtown Hayward and nearby Lake Hayward.

Located just two miles east of Hayward off of Highway 77 is one of the area’s most stunning spots to view mother nature’s beauty. Hatcher Creek County Park is home to biking and walking trails that traverse a ridge overlooking the Namekagon River Valley. You can also sign up for any one of the six curated fall color tours in and around the Hayward Lakes area by visiting www.haywardlakes.com or visiting the information center located at 15805 US HWY 63, Hayward, Wisconsin. 

Fall colors in Sawyer County/Hayward Lakes

The fall color season in the area can be short so take advantage of some of these great spots mentioned or events in the area listed below as well: 

Saturday, October 1 – 44th Annual Stone Lake Cranberry Fest
Saturday, October 1 – Fall Harvest Festival in Phillips, WI
Saturday, October 8 – Jack O’ Lantern Festival in Spooner, WI
Friday, October 7 – Sunday, October 9; Bayfield Apple Festival in Bayfield, WI 


September to mid-October, the region is enveloped in fall energy. It’s no wonder people drive from all around to see the changing colors in Northern Wisconsin. They are simply mesmerizing. Just don’t forget to stop, soak in the crisp fall air, and snap some pictures. It’s a sight you will want to see for years to come. Learn more about Northern Wisconsin HERE.

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