Entry 98: Pattison State Park: Wisconsin’s Tallest Waterfall and a Legacy of Conservation

 

Pattison State Park, located just south of Superior, Wisconsin, is not only a haven for outdoor recreation but also a place steeped in cultural and geological significance. The land has been home to Indigenous peoples for thousands of years, especially the Ojibwe, who lived in harmony with the rivers, lakes, and forests of the region. The Nemadji River and surrounding waterways served as vital transportation and fishing routes, and the area is still considered sacred to many Native communities today.

The park’s modern history began in 1917 when Martin Pattison, a successful lumber baron and conservationist, donated the land to the state. At a time when logging was destroying much of Wisconsin’s wilderness, Pattison recognized the importance of protecting the towering 165-foot Big Manitou Falls—the tallest waterfall in the state. His gift helped launch the preservation of this extraordinary landscape and sparked a long-standing commitment to conservation.

During the Great Depression in the 1930s, the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) transformed Pattison State Park into a model of sustainable public recreation. The CCC constructed trails, shelters, bridges, and picnic areas that are still in use today, blending utility with a rustic aesthetic that honors the land’s natural contours.

Geologically, the park is just as impressive as it is scenic. The waterfalls were formed nearly 10,000 years ago, shaped by retreating glaciers during the last Ice Age. The dramatic black volcanic basalt over which the waterfalls plunge is a striking contrast to the lush, green forests that surround them. Big Manitou and Little Manitou Falls continue to captivate geologists and photographers alike with their powerful flow and ancient rock formations.

Today, Pattison State Park spans over 1,400 acres and offers something for every type of nature lover. Visitors can enjoy camping, hiking, birdwatching, swimming in Interfalls Lake, and peaceful picnic spots with forest views. The park is also the focus of ongoing restoration work to recover from past windstorms and control invasive species, ensuring the area remains healthy and beautiful for generations to come.

Whether you’re standing at the base of Big Manitou Falls or walking the forest trails once built by the CCC, Pattison State Park offers a deep connection to Wisconsin’s natural and cultural heritage.

Pattison State Park
6294 WI-35, Superior, WI 54880

Other Things to Do Nearby:

• Amnicon Falls State Park – Just 20 minutes away, it’s another gem with waterfalls and scenic bridges.

• Wisconsin Point – A long, sandy peninsula great for birdwatching and catching a Lake Superior sunrise.

• Fairlawn Mansion & Museum – A Victorian-era house museum in Superior with exhibits on local history.

Family-Friendly Places to Eat Nearby:

• Anchor Bar – A quirky local burger joint known for its cheap prices and big flavor.

• Vintage Italian Pizza (VIP) – A family-friendly pizzeria with hearty portions and casual atmosphere.

• Eddie’s World Famous Ribs & BBQ – Great BBQ just off the highway, perfect after a long day of hiking.