Pattison State Park
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Pattison State Park

4.7
·2k reviews·Superior, United States

Discover Wisconsin's tallest waterfall, Big Manitou Falls, and explore scenic trails, a beach, and abundant nature.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring mornings

Waterfalls at peak flow

CrowdMedium
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Pattison State Park

Pattison State Park

Best Time

Spring mornings

Waterfalls at peak flow

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Discover Wisconsin's tallest waterfall, Big Manitou Falls, and explore scenic trails, a beach, and abundant nature.

4.7
(2k reviews)

"This is one of the top must-see locations in Wisconsin, and I can't recommend visiting enough!"

Vertical photo
TIP

📸 Bring Your Camera!

The views of both Big and Little Manitou Falls are stunning. Capture the power and beauty of these natural wonders.

👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes

Trails can be uneven and slippery, especially near the falls. Comfortable, closed-toe shoes are essential.

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Quick Facts

Hours

Rating

4.7 · 1,771 reviews

Type

State Park

👶 Good for kids♿ Wheelchair accessible🅿️ Accessible parking

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Big Manitou Falls

Big Manitou Falls

Main viewing area

Wisconsin's tallest waterfall, a breathtaking 165-foot cascade. A must-see for its sheer power and beauty.

TikTokInstagram
Little Manitou Falls

Little Manitou Falls

Short trail from main lot

A picturesque and serene waterfall, often described as a hidden gem. Offers a different, more intimate beauty.

TikTokInstagram
Black River Hiking Trails

Black River Hiking Trails

Various trailheads

Explore miles of scenic trails along the Black River, offering diverse landscapes and wildlife viewing opportunities.

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Planning Your Visit

Chase Wisconsin's Tallest Waterfall

Pattison State Park is home to Big Manitou Falls, Wisconsin's tallest waterfall at 165 feet. Plan your visit to witness this natural wonder and explore the equally impressive Little Manitou Falls. Consider the season for optimal waterfall flow and trail conditions. TikTok+1

Trail Accessibility & Conditions

While many trails are family-friendly and well-maintained, the path to the base of Big Manitou Falls can be strenuous. Check current trail conditions, especially after heavy rain or snowmelt, and be prepared for elevation changes. InstagramReddit

Best Times

When
Spring mornings
Why
Waterfalls at peak flow
Crowd
Medium
When
Summer afternoons
Why
Beach access & warmer weather
Crowd
High
When
Winter
Why
Fewer crowds, frozen beauty
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

A favorite morning hike #statepark #lakesuperior #pattisonstatepark #waterfall
@hannie__bananie98
7.6K likes • 188K views

📸 Bring Your Camera!

The views of both Big and Little Manitou Falls are stunning. Capture the power and beauty of these natural wonders. TikTokReddit

👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes

Trails can be uneven and slippery, especially near the falls. Comfortable, closed-toe shoes are essential. InstagramReddit

What is your favorite midwest waterfall? Located in Superior, WI and 30 minutes from Duluth, MN is the largest waterfall in Wisconsin! Pattison State Park contains short trails leading to Big Manitou Falls and Little Manitou Falls. #wi #wisconsin #midwest #waterfall #midwestwaterfalls #statepark #discoverwisconsin #wistateparks
@hittheroad.jacki
6.9K likes • 154.6K views
PATTISON STATE PARK - Superior, WI 🏕️ 🤩 This park is home to the tallest waterfall in the state! Big Manitou Falls is 165 feet tall and absolutely breathtaking. Little Manitou is also impressive and doesn’t feel very little! 🥾 I recommend parking in the main lot by the park office. From there, make your way to the Beaver Trail. You can take this loop trail to spurs to the falls. In total, it w...
thatwisconsincouple
3.9K likes • 142.6K views

💧 Check Waterfall Flow

Spring snowmelt offers the most dramatic flow, but the falls are impressive year-round. Instagram

🚗 Park Smart

The main lot by the park office is a good starting point for accessing trails to both falls. Instagram

Big Manitou Falls at Pattison State Park, WI was just amazing!! July 2025 #wheretherhoadesgo #hiking #waterfall #chasingwaterfalls
wheretherhoadesgo
5 likes • 203 views

Tips

from all over the internet

📸 Bring Your Camera!

The views of both Big and Little Manitou Falls are stunning. Capture the power and beauty of these natural wonders. TikTokReddit

👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes

Trails can be uneven and slippery, especially near the falls. Comfortable, closed-toe shoes are essential. InstagramReddit

💧 Check Waterfall Flow

Spring snowmelt offers the most dramatic flow, but the falls are impressive year-round. Instagram

🚗 Park Smart

The main lot by the park office is a good starting point for accessing trails to both falls. Instagram

☀️ Pack for the Weather

Northern Wisconsin weather can change quickly. Layers are recommended, even in summer. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.7
(2k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Pattison State Park for its stunning waterfalls, well-maintained trails, and beautiful natural scenery. The park offers a great mix of accessible viewpoints and more challenging hikes, with camping facilities adding to its appeal. Some find the descent to Big Manitou Falls strenuous, but overall, it's considered a top Wisconsin destination.

"Beautiful well maintained park. The hikes along the river, by the wetlands and to the two different waterfall sites are exceptional. The hiking trails were in wonderful shape. They are for the most part easy and family friendly. I camped overnight in my tent and the facilities were clean and my site was in good shape."

Cindy Puzio

"Nice campground tucked in the woods. Short drive to Superior and Duluth for day trips. The hike to the high falls is pretty neat, nice views for sure. Bring your camera! We can't wait to see how the new bathroom building turns out after construction. We'll definitely be back."

Brittni Dye

"Lots of great hiking at this park. Campsites are all pull-through which is convenient, but still offer privacy between campsites. Both Big and Little Manitou Falls were impressive, but I felt the views of Little were better. Park is also very convenient to Superior (15-20 minutes) giving you great flexibility on your trip."

Zach Wedel

What People Like

Spectacular waterfalls
Well-maintained trails
Beautiful natural scenery

What People Dislike

Strenuous waterfall descent

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Pattison State Park is located in Superior, Wisconsin. It's about a 30-minute drive from Duluth, Minnesota. TikTokInstagram If driving from further afield, use GPS coordinates or follow signs for the park. Parking is available at various lots, with the main lot near the park office being a convenient starting point for many attractions. Instagram

Yes, Pattison State Park is conveniently located just about 30 minutes from Duluth, Minnesota, making it a popular day trip destination for those visiting the Twin Ports area. TikTokInstagram

From the main park entrance, follow the signs for Big Manitou Falls. There is a main parking lot with a short walk to the viewing areas. Instagram

Yes, Pattison State Park is accessible in winter, offering a unique experience with frozen waterfalls and fewer crowds. Trails may be snow-covered, so appropriate winter gear is recommended. Instagram

Public transportation options to Pattison State Park are limited. It is best accessed by private vehicle. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Yes, an annual Wisconsin state park sticker or a daily admission fee is required to enter Pattison State Park. Instagram

Pattison State Park is generally open year-round from 8 AM to 11 PM. However, specific facilities like the nature center may have limited hours. It's always a good idea to check the official Wisconsin DNR website for the most up-to-date information. Instagram

Admission to Pattison State Park requires a Wisconsin state park sticker. An annual sticker covers entry to all state parks, or you can purchase a daily permit. Instagram

Yes, Wisconsin state park stickers can be purchased online through the Wisconsin DNR website, or at park offices and other authorized vendors. Instagram

Discounts are typically not available for daily park entry. However, an annual sticker offers the best value if you plan to visit multiple Wisconsin state parks throughout the year. Instagram

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

The trails to Big Manitou Falls and Little Manitou Falls are the most popular. The Beaver Trail offers access to Big Manitou Falls, and other trails wind along the Black River. Instagram+1 Some trails can be strenuous, especially the path down to the base of Big Manitou Falls. Reddit+1

The walk to the main viewing area of Big Manitou Falls is relatively easy. However, the trail descending to the base of the falls is steep and can be challenging, especially for older visitors or those with mobility issues. Reddit

Yes, Pattison State Park offers camping facilities, including campsites with pull-through access that provide privacy. InstagramReddit There are also hike-to campsites available for a more primitive experience. Reddit

Families can enjoy hiking to the waterfalls, swimming at the beach on Interfalls Lake, picnicking, and exploring the nature center. Instagram+1

Yes, Pattison State Park features a beach on Interfalls Lake, offering a place to swim and relax during warmer months. Instagram

Swimming is generally permitted at the designated beach on Interfalls Lake. Swimming in the Black River itself may be restricted or unsafe due to currents and depth. Instagram

Pets are generally allowed in Wisconsin State Parks but must be leashed and are not permitted in park buildings or on designated swimming beaches. Always check park-specific regulations. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

The viewing platforms for Big Manitou Falls and the scenic overlooks for Little Manitou Falls are prime photography locations. The trails along the Black River also offer beautiful natural shots. TikTokReddit

Late afternoon can offer beautiful lighting on Big Manitou Falls, making it look like an 'oil painting.' Reddit Early morning can also provide softer light and fewer crowds. TikTok

Drone usage in Wisconsin State Parks is subject to specific regulations. It's crucial to check the Wisconsin DNR's drone policy before flying to ensure compliance. TikTok

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the grandeur of Big Manitou Falls. A telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife. A sturdy tripod is recommended for low-light conditions or long exposures. Reddit

Yes, Pattison State Park is home to various wildlife. Remember to maintain a safe distance and avoid disturbing the animals. Instagram

Pattison State Park (2026) – Best of TikTok, Instagram & Reddit Travel Guide