Discover When Leaves Change Color in Wisconsin (Plus 5 Places with Beautiful Foliage)

Autumn’s colorful foliage in Wisconsin conveys stunning vistas to individuals who adore fall or merely want to take it easy and appreciate nature. Colors range from fiery red, rusty orange, or caramel brown to golden, dazzling tones of yellow. 

Several coniferous and deciduous native tree species in addition to a wide variety of bushes, herbaceous plants, and botanical species can be found in Wisconsin. From cedars to firs to maple and oak trees. 

The Badger State is a show-stopper when it comes to seeing the leaves change. Although most people think of Wisconsin as endless fields and tasty cheese, the stunning scenery throughout the fall is reason enough to book a flight. 

Whether you’re traveling from Minnesota or all the way from California, consider checking out the fall foliage all around Wiscon. Here’s a handy guide to make your trip the best it can be! 

When Do Leaves Change Color in Wisconsin?

Autumn color normally begins to appear in the middle of September and lasts throughout October. Colors of leaves start to change from North to South. The colder areas of the state change first. 

The Wisconsin Fall Color Report is a great resource to make sure you plan your leaf-peeping trip accordingly. When the leaves emit a redder hue, it is when the shifting leaves are at their peak. Yet, the”peak” foliage appears in various sections of Wisconsin at different points during the fall.

The second and third weeks of October mark the greatest color period in northern Wisconsin. The third and fourth weeks of October mark the height of the color period in Central Wisconsin. In the fourth and first weeks of November, southern Wisconsin will experience a magnificent color display.

Top Places to See Fall Foliage in Wisconsin

1. Milwaukee

With all the activities that fall brings, Milwaukee has a ton of new, interesting things to do. Milwaukee boasts a wide variety of fantastic fall events, from picking apples to brewery festivals.

Milwaukee ought to be on the radar of autumn weekend destinations, whether you decide to take in the vibrant foliage or participate in the fun events. Although the Milwaukee Film Festival is the largest art event in the city, the fall foliage is still at its most beautiful around the last week of September and the start of October.

Your senses will be delighted by the city’s cultural heritage, as well as the state’s natural beauty and autumnal colors. You’ll come away with stories to tell! Two of Wisconsin’s creepiest hotels, which may or may not be haunted, are in Milwaukee. Book a room to make your fall trip unforgettable.

2. Appleton

Stop by Appleton if you want to experience fall foliage, Wisconsin, and the peace of nature! Some of Wisconsin’s most spooky locations sit near Appleton, so you can enjoy additional frightening activities this autumn.

One of the most exciting things to do in Wisconsin in October is to visit the biggest haunted house estate in the Midwest. Exploring and learning of the city’s history and architecture, taking in autumnal foliage, touring the Houdini museum, and basking in the relaxing and friendly attitude are just a few of the top things to do in Appleton. 

Bubolz Nature Preserve offers beautiful hiking routes and a lodge with a number of attractions. The third week of October is the ideal time for a trip to Appleton since you can experience the best display of the fall colors and appreciate its splendor.

3. Lake Geneva

The Lake Geneva area is the best location in Wisconsin to view the enchantment of the autumn colors, drawing tourists from far and wide. You’ll have plenty of freedom to explore and breathe in the cool fall air with each step thanks to the multitude of lakes, fishing spots, nature parks, and outdoor leisure sites. 

We strongly advise going to Geneva Lake Shore Path. Consider taking a stroll along a portion of Geneva Lake’s 21-mile shore route to get some exercise. A backdrop of intense fall color makes the amazing estates and stately buildings that surround the lake appear even more remarkable.

A spectacular and unforgettable experience is hot air ballooning above the canopy of trees. Up to mid-November, Lake Geneva Balloon Company offers excursions. 

4. Minocqua

Traveling down Rustic Road 58 in Minocqua, one of three unique state-approved roads in the region will take you through cedar valleys, two babbling rivers, and hardwood and scented pine woodlands. 

Capture the amazing grandeur of the vibrant reds, intense yellows, and inviting oranges in the fall as they sweep over the area. There are countless lakes, rivers, and streams nearby where you can go boating, watch the sunset, or go for a walk among the many bodies of water.  

The town offers picturesque, alluring, and expansive views of Wisconsin’s fall foliage thanks to its over 107,000 acres of forested land along with some of the most enjoyable hiking in Northern Wisconsin. 

5. Douglas County 

Make the most of your autumn getaway by traveling to Douglas County during the first week of October. This is the ideal location if you’re looking to unplug and immerse yourself in nature. 

Visit Lake Superior to see the magnificent foliage, and then go hiking in the tranquil surroundings of the brightly colored woodlands. The Superior Municipal Forest, which has 4,400 acres of forest area, provides a fantastic picture of how the natural world is changing. 

You can go off the paved path in the woods and relax among the numerous types of trees.

Summary of the Best Places to See Leaves Change in Wisconsin 

1. Milwaukee 

2. Appleton

3. Lake Geneva

4. Minocqua

5. Douglas County