Home to Wisconsin’s tallest waterfall, Pattison State Park features the magnificent Big Manitou Falls plunging 50 meters (165 feet) into the Black River. This 1,476-acre natural treasure offers visitors a perfect blend of dramatic waterfalls, serene forests, and recreational opportunities just 15 kilometers (9.3 miles) south of Superior. Whether you’re planning a day trip or a camping adventure, this guide will help you discover the best experiences this spectacular park has to offer.
Getting There & Planning Your Journey
Pattison State Park is located at 6294 S State Road 35, Superior, WI 54880. The park is easily accessible by car and is approximately 20 minutes from Superior or 30 minutes from Duluth, Minnesota. If you’re coming from further away, the nearest major airports are in Duluth (DLH) and Minneapolis-Saint Paul (MSP).
The park is open year-round from 6:00 AM to 11:00 PM. A Wisconsin State Park vehicle admission sticker is required for entry. Daily passes cost $13 for Wisconsin residents and $16 for non-residents. Annual passes are available for $28 (residents) or $38 (non-residents), which is a great value if you plan to visit multiple Wisconsin state parks.
Best Time to Visit Pattison State Park
Each season offers a unique experience at Pattison State Park, but the most popular time to visit is during the summer months (June through August) when temperatures typically range from 18-26°C (65-80°F). This is ideal for swimming at the beach, camping, and enjoying all hiking trails.
Recommended Seasons:
- Summer (June-August): Perfect for swimming, camping, and all trails are accessible. Waterfalls may have lower flow during dry periods.
- Fall (September-October): Spectacular foliage colors make this an excellent time for photography and hiking. Temperatures range from 7-18°C (45-65°F).
- Spring (May): Waterfalls are at peak flow from snowmelt, though some trails may be muddy. Temperatures range from 10-18°C (50-65°F).
Seasons to Avoid:
- Winter (December-March): While the park offers winter activities like snowshoeing, many facilities are closed and trails can be difficult to navigate. Temperatures often drop below -12°C (10°F).
- Early Spring (April): Melting snow creates muddy conditions on trails, and facilities may still be limited.
Getting Around Locally
The best way to explore Pattison State Park is on foot via the park’s 9 kilometers (5.6 miles) of hiking trails. The park is relatively compact, making it easy to visit both Big and Little Manitou Falls in a single day. Most visitors drive to the park and then hike between attractions.
If you’re staying in Superior or Duluth, having your own vehicle is essential as there’s no public transportation to the park. For those flying in, renting a car is highly recommended to explore both the park and surrounding attractions.
Where to Stay
Pattison State Park offers 62 campsites, including 18 with electrical hookups, making it an excellent option for those who want to immerse themselves in nature. The campground includes modern amenities such as showers and flush toilets during summer months, plus a sanitary dumping station for RVs.
Camping Options:
- Family Campsites: 59 standard sites, including 18 with electrical hookups
- Walk-in Sites: 3 remote sites for a more secluded experience
- Amenities: Showers, flush toilets (summer), fire rings, picnic tables
Nearby Accommodations:
- Superior, WI: Various hotels and motels (15-20 minutes from park)
- Duluth, MN: Wide range of accommodations from budget to luxury (30 minutes from park)
- Vacation Rentals: Several cabins and Airbnb options within 10-15 minutes of the park
Reservations for campsites can be made up to 11 months in advance through the Wisconsin DNR website or by calling 1-888-947-2757. During peak summer weekends and holidays, campsites fill quickly, so booking well in advance is recommended.
Dining & Local Cuisine
There are no dining facilities within Pattison State Park, so visitors should plan to bring their own food and drinks. The park has several picnic areas with tables near both the main entrance and Little Manitou Falls, making it perfect for a scenic lunch break.
Nearby Dining Options:
Superior, WI (15-20 minutes)
- Earth Rider Brewery
- Anchor Bar
- Gronk’s Grill & Bar
Duluth, MN (30 minutes)
- OMC Smokehouse (BBQ)
- Duluth Coffee Company
- Portland Malt Shop (ice cream)
Picnic Supplies
- Super One Foods (Superior)
- Duluth’s Best Bread
- Mount Royal Fine Foods (Duluth)
For campers, there are grocery stores in Superior where you can stock up on supplies. Many visitors bring coolers with prepared meals or simple cooking ingredients to use at their campsite’s fire ring.
Attractions, Sightseeing & Activities
Pattison State Park’s main attractions are its two spectacular waterfalls and beautiful lake, but there’s plenty more to explore throughout its 1,476 acres of forests, wetlands, and rivers.
Must-See Attractions:
Big Manitou Falls
Wisconsin’s tallest waterfall at 50 meters (165 feet). Multiple viewing platforms offer different perspectives of this impressive natural wonder. Don’t miss the selfie stand at the south overlook for a perfect photo opportunity.
Little Manitou Falls
A charming 9.5-meter (31-foot) twin waterfall located in the southern part of the park. Visitors can get much closer to these falls and explore the rocky area at the base.
Interfalls Lake
A beautiful lake with a 91-meter (300-foot) sandy beach perfect for swimming during summer months. The lake includes a swimming area with changing rooms and restrooms nearby.
Hiking Trails & Outdoor Experiences
With over 9 kilometers (5.6 miles) of trails, Pattison State Park offers hiking experiences for all skill levels. The trails wind through diverse ecosystems including forests of balsam fir, birch, aspen, and spruce.
Popular Trails:
Beaver Trail
A 3.2-kilometer (2-mile) loop around Interfalls Lake that connects to Little Manitou Falls. This moderately easy trail offers beautiful views of both the lake and river.
Little Manitou Falls Trail
A short 0.8-kilometer (0.5-mile) trail from the south parking area to Little Manitou Falls. Perfect for families with young children or those with limited mobility.
Big Manitou Falls Overlook Trail
Several short, interconnected trails lead to different viewpoints of Big Manitou Falls. The south viewpoint offers the most direct view of the falls.
Seasonal Outdoor Activities:
Summer Activities:
- Swimming at Interfalls Lake beach
- Fishing for northern pike, walleye, and panfish
- Wildlife viewing (nearly 200 bird species visit the park)
- Photography, especially at the waterfalls
Winter Activities:
- Cross-country skiing on tracked trails
- Snowshoeing through the winter landscape
- Winter photography of ice formations at the falls
- The path to Big Manitou Falls overlook is kept cleared in winter
Nearby Attractions & Day Trips
While Pattison State Park offers plenty to keep you busy, the surrounding area is rich with additional attractions worth exploring. Consider adding these nearby destinations to your itinerary.
Within 30 Minutes:
Amnicon Falls State Park
Just 19 kilometers (12 miles) east of Pattison, featuring a series of picturesque waterfalls and a historic covered bridge. Perfect for combining with your Pattison visit.
Superior, Wisconsin
Explore the SS Meteor Maritime Museum, Barker’s Island Beach, and the Richard I. Bong Veterans Historical Center.
Duluth, Minnesota
Visit Canal Park, the Aerial Lift Bridge, Lake Superior Aquarium, and the Lake Walk along the shoreline.
Within 1-2 Hours:
- Apostle Islands National Lakeshore: Famous for its sea caves, historic lighthouses, and beautiful island scenery
- Copper Falls State Park: Home to more spectacular waterfalls and the popular Doughboy Trail
- Madeline Island: The largest of the Apostle Islands, accessible by ferry from Bayfield
Practical Travel Tips
Make the most of your visit to Pattison State Park with these helpful tips and important information.
Park Fees & Hours
- Open daily from 6:00 AM to 11:00 PM year-round
- Wisconsin State Park vehicle sticker required
- Daily: $13 (WI residents), $16 (non-residents)
- Annual: $28 (WI residents), $38 (non-residents)
Accessibility
- The path to Big Manitou Falls is paved and accessible
- Path to Little Manitou Falls has paved surface or crushed stone
- Accessible picnic areas and restrooms at main entrance
- Some wheelchair accessible trails with packed gravel/dirt pathways
What to Bring
- Water and snacks (no food services in park)
- Insect repellent (especially May-August)
- Sunscreen and hat for beach areas
- Camera for waterfall photography
- Swimwear during summer months
Important Information:
- Pets: Allowed in most areas but must be on a leash no longer than 2.4 meters (8 feet) at all times
- Cell Service: Can be spotty within the park; download maps in advance
- Weather: Conditions can change quickly; check forecasts and dress in layers
- Camping Reservations: Book well in advance for summer weekends through the Wisconsin DNR website
- Drinking Water: Available near the campground and main entrance during summer months
Ready for Your Pattison State Park Adventure?
From the thundering cascade of Big Manitou Falls to the tranquil shores of Interfalls Lake, Pattison State Park offers some of Wisconsin’s most spectacular natural scenery. Whether you’re hiking through ancient forests, swimming at the sandy beach, or capturing the perfect waterfall photograph, this hidden gem in northern Wisconsin promises unforgettable outdoor experiences for visitors of all ages.
With proper planning using this guide, you’ll be well-prepared to enjoy everything this remarkable state park has to offer. Pack your hiking boots, grab your camera, and get ready to discover why Pattison State Park remains one of Wisconsin’s most treasured natural destinations.
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