This Picturesque Wisconsin State Park Is A Must-Visit Fall Destination For Leaf Peepers

There's nothing quite like fall. Throwing on a sweater due to the crisp in the air, catching a bit of extra sleep as the days noticeably shorten, and maybe grabbing a pumpkin spice latte — they might be a bit oversaturated, but they're still a nostalgic fall staple. And, of course, plans have to be made to appreciate the spectacle of colors on all the trees. Quick autumn tree info: the beautiful fall foliage we get to enjoy is mostly influenced by daylight and temperature, with trees at higher elevations or northern latitudes changing color earlier as their chlorophyll fades and other pigments become visible. The timing of peak color varies by region, and, lucky for us, America is full of stunning locales to admire the phenomenon, like Maryland's gorgeous park in the Blue Ridge Mountains. 

But for those who might not know, Wisconsin is low-key beautiful and having a moment, breaking tourism records three years in a row. There may be an increase in visitors, but there's still plenty of natural beauty to see without the crowds, like Rib Mountain State Park. Located just outside of Wausau in central Wisconsin (about three hours from Minneapolis and four hours from Chicago), Rib Mountain stands under 700 feet tall, so it's more of a hill, but it's one of the oldest geological formations on Earth (1.5 billion years old). 

One of the best places in the Midwest to witness the vibrant hues of autumn, the park offers panoramic views, quiet wooded trails, and a peaceful escape into nature. Whether you're a hiker, photographer, or just looking for a relaxing weekend in nature surrounded by fall color, Rib Mountain is a must-visit destination, with the color forecast predicting the peak in late October.

One of the essential hacks for a leaf-peeping fall vacation is having a home base. Rib Mountain State Park is just outside a town of 40,000, so there are plenty of cozy hotel options for all styles and budgets, such as the rustic Cedar Creek Hotel or the chateau-like Grand Lodge Hotel Wausau. Fall is also the perfect time to go on your next camping adventure, and the nearby campground at DuBay Park is open until the end of October.

The park is a hilly 1,528 acres, with over 15 miles of forest trails to explore, and makes the perfect autumn day-trip. For a more casual experience, jump on the chairlift at the Granite Peak Ski Area on the north end. It can take up to six people and goes at a nice casual pace, perfect for children and for admiring the vistas along the way. Cruise to the top of the hill, take a leisurely hike, and then make your way back down via the chairlift or on-foot — be sure to book in advance as the lift sells out often, especially on Saturdays.

To do some more hiking, visitors can enter via the State Park Road on the other side of the park — you'll need a Wisconsin parks tag or to purchase a day-pass. Once there, choose the hike that fits your timetable — maps are available online. Pack a picnic and take the Gray Trail (1.5 mi), stopping to enjoy your lunch near the amphitheater. Or take a longer jaunt on the Quarry Trail to check out carved stone formations, and then hit the 60-foot observation tower on the way back for the best views of Wausau and surrounding countryside.

While Rib Mountain State Park is a great day-trip into nature, the nearby area has plenty of quaint activities for a memorable autumn getaway in central Wisconsin. Wausau is worth exploring, with boutique stores, lovely coffee shops, and plenty of quality comfort food for a chilly day. In the heart of downtown, on the 400 Block, is the Harvest Fest every fall. It's perfect for families, with free pumpkins for kids, a petting zoo, and special treats for youngsters wearing costumes. The Wausau Farmers' Market runs Wednesdays and Saturdays until November, and is worth checking out for fresh local products, while Monk Botanical Gardens are spectacular during fall.

The ideal autumn trip to Rib Mountain would be starting the day with coffee in town, before hitting the chairlift to the top of the hill for a late morning and early afternoon spent hiking the colorful forest. Then grab a late lunch at a delicious Wausau establishment like Red Eye Brewing before going to another rustic autumn spot for the evening. The family-owned Rock Ridge Orchard is a lovely place to wander through rows of apple-laden trees, the experience made even sweeter with a warm apple cider donut fresh from the farm stand or a glass of their hard cider.

You could also try the corn maze on Willow Springs Gardens farm. Getting lost while dashing through towering stalks is perfect for kids, while the rural charm and simple joy of the challenge make it fun for everyone. A day spent hiking under vibrant foliage, enjoying cozy cuisine, then enjoying the evening on a farm is quintessential fall fun. As an autumn destination for leaf-peeping and more, Rib Mountain State Park and the Wausau area deliver.