Copper Falls State Park

Ancient lava flows, deep gorges, and spectacular waterfalls make Copper Falls one of Wisconsin's most scenic parks. Log buildings built by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s add to the park's charm.

Brownstone falls in high water
In times of high water, Brownstone Falls are especially dramatic.
Photo by Jeff Peters

There are many things to do—hiking, picnicking, fishing, and swimming. The park is one of the highlights of the North Country National Scenic Trail in Wisconsin.

For overnight stays, there are 54 regular campsites, a group camping area big enough for 40 people, a backpack campsite, and, for people with disabilities, a rustic cabin. Average season snowfall of more than 100 inches enables the park to maintain 12 kilometers (8 miles) of cross-country ski trails.

How to Get There

Copper Falls is about 2 miles northeast of Mellen in Ashland County. Take State Highway 13 to the north side of Mellen and turn (northeast) on State Highway 169. Go about 1.8 miles. The park entrance will be on your left. Geographic coordinates are 46° 20' 51.8" N, 90° 38' 34.0" W.

In the Area

Ashland and Bayfield Counties [exit DNR]
Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest [exit DNR]
Mellen [exit DNR]—accommodations, activities, dining, events, and more
North Country National Scenic Trail

More Information

Master Plan [PDF, 418KB]

For more information, ask

Benjamin Bergey, manager,
Copper Falls State Park
36764 Copper Falls Road
Mellen, WI 54546.
(715) 274-5123

Last Revised: Wednesday November 25 2009