Friday, June 12, 2015

Copper Falls State Park, Mellen, WI

It is fair to say, Copper Falls is one of the more popular state parks in Wisconsin and for good reason! The falls are beautiful and big! There is a rich history here; many different Native American tribes, copper mining, and the CCC and WPA. There are nice hiking trails, two different campgrounds, and a beach. What's not to love? 

This Wisconsin gem is located just northeast of Mellen, WI. It might be a bit of a haul, but definitely worth the drive. Once you get to the area, there are endless hiking opportunities in the nearby Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest; beaches, ATV routes, biking, camping, birding, etc. 

My favorite hike at Copper Falls is the Red Granite Falls hike. This is the one I frequent most because it is the only dog friendly hike in the park. This is a 2.5 mile trail that contains two different loops which is great because for the most part you are experiencing something new. This trail is less populated and not quite as popular as the Doughboys' Nature Trail which takes you around the big falls. 

Red Granite Falls hike begins near the parking lot at the beach by Loon Lake. It traverses up into the woods on crushed granite and soft mud/grass. There are small spurs coming off the main trail to allow hikers to get a better look at the falls. You can climb up on the rocks, watch the water gush through, feel the spray, or just take a breather. The trail continues up and down past small pond, large glacial erratics, and through the mixed hardwood forest. After a rain there are many different kinds of fungi that pop up among the various wildflowers. Keep a look out for butterflies and other beautifully winged insects. 







The Doughboys' Nature Trail is a 1.7 mile trail that offers scenic views of Copper Falls, Tyler Forks, the Bad River, and Brownstone Falls. This trail is more popular and also has educational signage discussing the unique geology of the area as well other nature and history facts. If you are good on your hike and bring a few dollars, you can visit the concession stand for the ride home or back to your campsite. I recommend the ice cream!

The North Country National Scenic Trail also runs through segments of Copper Falls, in case you feel like hiking a ways.

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