Did you know that Copper Falls State Park is home to some of the oldest exposed rock in North America? Dating back over 1 billion years, these ancient lava flows have been sculpted by water and time into one of Wisconsin’s most spectacular landscapes. This hidden gem in northern Wisconsin offers visitors a chance to witness nature’s artistic prowess through dramatic waterfalls, deep gorges, and pristine forests.
Park Overview: Wisconsin’s Waterfall Wonderland
Established in 1929, Copper Falls State Park spans 3,068 acres (1,242 hectares) of breathtaking wilderness in Ashland County. The park’s centerpiece is the dramatic series of waterfalls along the Bad River and its tributary, Tyler Forks, where water plunges through ancient volcanic rock formations, creating a spectacle that draws nature lovers from across the Midwest.
The park features 27 km (17 miles) of hiking trails, including a segment of the North Country National Scenic Trail, a swimming beach at Loon Lake, fishing opportunities, and year-round recreational activities. Historic log buildings constructed by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s add cultural interest to this natural wonderland.
Getting There & Planning Your Journey
Copper Falls State Park is located near the small town of Mellen in northern Wisconsin, approximately:
- 322 km (200 miles) north of Madison
- 386 km (240 miles) northeast of Minneapolis-St. Paul
- 112 km (70 miles) from Duluth, Minnesota
The nearest major airports are in Duluth, Minnesota and Minneapolis-Saint Paul, Minnesota. From either airport, you’ll need to rent a car to reach the park. to plan your journey.
The park address is 36764 Copper Falls Road, Mellen, WI 54546. Once you arrive in the area, the park is well-signed and easy to find.
Best Time to Visit & Weather Tips
Recommended Seasons
Summer (June-August)
Peak season with warm temperatures ranging from 18-27°C (65-80°F). All park facilities are open, and trails are in prime condition. Perfect for swimming in Loon Lake and enjoying extended daylight hours for hiking.
Fall (September-October)
Many consider this the most spectacular time to visit as the forest transforms into a canvas of red, orange, and gold. Temperatures range from 7-18°C (45-65°F), and the park is less crowded than summer.
Spring (April-May)
The waterfalls are at their most powerful due to snowmelt, but trails can be muddy. Temperatures range from 4-15°C (40-60°F). Wildflowers begin to bloom, and wildlife becomes more active.
Winter (November-March)
For the adventurous, winter transforms the park into a snow-covered wonderland. Temperatures often drop below freezing, ranging from -15 to 0°C (5-32°F). The park offers excellent cross-country skiing and snowshoeing opportunities.
Pro Tip: Late September to early October offers the perfect combination of comfortable temperatures, spectacular fall colors, and fewer crowds. This is widely considered the ideal time to photograph the falls.
Entrance Fees & Reservations
To enter Copper Falls State Park, you’ll need a Wisconsin State Park admission sticker:
- Wisconsin Residents: $8 daily or $28 annual
- Non-Residents: $11 daily or $38 annual
- Seniors (65+): Discounted rates available
Purchase your admission sticker at the park entrance station or online through the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources website. If you’re planning to camp, reservations are highly recommended, especially during summer and fall weekends.
Campsite reservations can be made up to 11 months in advance and often fill quickly for summer weekends and holidays. Book early to secure your spot!
Where to Stay: Lodging Options
Camping Within the Park
Copper Falls State Park offers 59 campsites, including:
- Family Campground: 56 sites, 24 with electrical hookups
- Accessible Cabin: 1 cabin designed for visitors with disabilities
- Backpack Campsites: 2 remote sites for a more secluded experience
Amenities include flush toilets, showers, drinking water, and a dump station. Each site has a fire ring and picnic table. Camping fees range from $18-$35 per night, depending on the site type and residency status.
Nearby Accommodations
If camping isn’t your style or you’re looking for additional options, several lodging alternatives are available in nearby towns:
Mellen (5 km/3 miles)
The closest town to the park offers a few small motels and bed & breakfasts with basic amenities.
Ashland (29 km/18 miles)
This larger town on Lake Superior offers more lodging options, including chain hotels, historic inns, and vacation rentals.
Getting Around Locally
A personal vehicle is essential for exploring Copper Falls State Park and the surrounding area. Public transportation is limited in this rural region of Wisconsin.
Within the park, all major attractions are accessible via well-maintained hiking trails. The main trail system forms loops of varying lengths, allowing you to tailor your exploration to your fitness level and available time.
Attractions, Sightseeing & Activities
Must-See Waterfalls
Copper Falls
The park’s namesake waterfall drops 9 meters (29 feet) through a dramatic red-brown gorge. The reddish color comes from the high copper content in the ancient volcanic rock.
Brownstone Falls
Where Tyler Forks meets the Bad River, this 10-meter (33-foot) waterfall cascades over dark brown sandstone, creating one of the park’s most photogenic spots.
Red Granite Falls
A series of smaller cascades over distinctive red granite formations, accessible via a short spur trail from the main loop.
Top Hiking Trails
Doughboys’ Nature Trail
2.7 km (1.7 miles) | Moderate
The park’s signature trail loops around the Bad River gorge, offering spectacular views of both Copper and Brownstone Falls from multiple observation platforms.
North Country National Scenic Trail
Varies | Moderate to Difficult
This long-distance trail passes through the park, offering extended hiking opportunities and connections to wider trail networks.
Red Granite Falls Trail
1.2 km (0.75 miles) | Easy
A shorter, accessible trail that leads to picturesque cascades over distinctive red granite formations.
Seasonal Activities & Recreation
Summer Recreation
- Swimming: Loon Lake offers a designated beach area with changing facilities
- Fishing: Try your luck for brook and brown trout in the Bad River and Tyler Forks
- Canoeing/Kayaking: Bring your own or rent from nearby outfitters
- Picnicking: Several scenic picnic areas with tables and grills
- Wildlife Viewing: Watch for white-tailed deer, black bears, and over 100 bird species
Winter Activities
- Cross-Country Skiing: 14 km (8.7 miles) of groomed trails for both classic and skate skiing
- Snowshoeing: Explore the winter landscape on designated trails
- Winter Photography: Capture the falls partially frozen in stunning ice formations
- Wildlife Tracking: Fresh snow reveals the movements of the park’s winter residents
Dining & Local Cuisine
Within the park, dining options are limited to:
- Concession stand (seasonal, typically open summer weekends)
- Picnic areas with grills for self-prepared meals
For more substantial dining options, head to nearby towns:
Mellen (5 km/3 miles)
Small-town eateries serving homestyle Wisconsin cuisine, including:
- Burgers and sandwiches
- Friday fish fry (a Wisconsin tradition)
- Local craft beers
Ashland (29 km/18 miles)
More diverse dining options on Lake Superior, featuring:
- Fresh lake fish
- Farm-to-table restaurants
- Cafés and bakeries
Local Specialties
Don’t miss these Wisconsin culinary traditions:
- Cheese curds (fresh and fried)
- Bratwurst
- Cranberry dishes (Wisconsin is the leading producer)
- Supper club dining experience
Practical Travel Tips
What to Pack
- Sturdy hiking shoes or boots
- Layered clothing (weather can change quickly)
- Rain gear, even in summer
- Insect repellent (May-September)
- Sunscreen and hat
- Reusable water bottle
- Camera for capturing the falls
- Binoculars for wildlife viewing
Park Facilities
- Visitor Center with exhibits
- Flush toilets and showers (campground)
- Pit toilets (throughout trails)
- Picnic areas with tables and grills
- Playground
- Amphitheater for ranger programs
- Gift shop (seasonal)
- Firewood sales (to prevent invasive species)
Safety Information
- Stay on designated trails
- Keep a safe distance from cliff edges
- Never swim in the rivers or falls
- Store food securely to avoid attracting wildlife
- Check for ticks after hiking
- Cell service is limited in the park
- Carry a basic first aid kit
- Inform someone of your hiking plans
Accessibility Information
Copper Falls State Park offers several accessible features:
- Accessible cabin available for overnight stays (reservation required)
- Accessible campsites in the family campground
- Paved pathways at the visitor center and picnic areas
- Accessible fishing pier on Loon Lake
- Portions of trails are accessible with assistance
- Accessible restrooms at the visitor center and campground
The park also offers an adaptive kayak for visitors with mobility challenges (available by reservation).
For specific accessibility questions or to reserve adaptive equipment, contact the park office at 715-274-5123.
Nearby Attractions Worth Exploring
Apostle Islands National Lakeshore
56 km (35 miles) | 45-minute drive
Explore 21 islands and 19 km (12 miles) of mainland with stunning sea caves, historic lighthouses, and pristine beaches along Lake Superior.
Bad River Tribal Lands
24 km (15 miles) | 20-minute drive
Learn about the culture and history of the Bad River Band of Lake Superior Chippewa, who have called this region home for centuries.
Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park
97 km (60 miles) | 1.5-hour drive
Michigan’s largest state park features old-growth forest, Lake Superior shoreline, and more waterfalls to explore.
Plan Your Copper Falls Adventure
Copper Falls State Park offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, outdoor recreation, and cultural history. From the thundering waterfalls carved through billion-year-old rock to peaceful forest trails and refreshing swimming spots, this northern Wisconsin gem deserves a spot on every nature lover’s bucket list.
Whether you’re planning a weekend camping trip, a day of hiking, or a multi-day exploration of northern Wisconsin’s natural wonders, Copper Falls provides unforgettable experiences in every season. Pack your hiking boots, grab your camera, and prepare to be amazed by one of the Midwest’s most spectacular state parks.
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