Wisconsin has earned itself a solid reputation for fall colors, competing with long-time destinations like New Hampshire, Vermont, and the rest of New England for unspoiled fall foliage. As we draw nearer to the end of summer, romantic fall getaways surrounded by the fiery hues of autumn are on the hearts and minds of travelers around the country. The charming Northwoods town of Wausau is an excellent destination for a getaway. Find out where the best places are to see the Fall Colors here!
Jump to:
- Annual Fall Color Ride
- Hike Up Rib Mountain
- Paddle at Bluegill Bay Park
- Explore Big Eau Pleine Park or the Dells of the Eau Claire County Park
- Relax by the River Walk
- Escape into Oak Island or Fern Island
- Bike on the Mountain Bay State Trail
- Walk Through a Historic Neighborhood
Where are the Best Fall Colors in Wausau?
The predominant color in any given year largely depends on the amount of rain received each year and the prevailing weather patterns. Right now, the Wisconsin Fall Color Report is predicting that peak fall colors in Wausau will happen in the 3rd week of October 2026, though fall colors typically start to show themselves by late September and through the entire month of October. Once you’re here, these are the 8 best places to view the fall colors in Wausau, Wisconsin:
Annual Fall Color Ride
If you only have time to do one thing this fall in Wausau, make it a scenic chairlift ride up Granite Peak!
Hike Up Rib Mountain
If you want to be fully immersed in fall color, hike up to the top of Rib Mountain State Park. It’s the same mountain that houses Granite Peak Ski Area, but it’s a different way to see the fall colors. Along the way, you can stop at many of the lookout points, or you can wait for the views from the 60-foot observation tower at the top.
Paddle at Bluegill Bay Park
Enjoy the reflections of fall in Lake Wausau from Bluegill Bay Park at the base of Rib Mountain. Whether you choose to boat or paddle around the lake or take in a fall picnic on the shores, you’ll certainly enjoy the splendor of fall bouncing off the waters of Lake Wausau.
Explore Big Eau Pleine Park or the Dells of the Eau Claire
Take a hike at The Big Eau Pleine Park or the Dells of the Eau Claire County Park, both exceptionally beautiful during fall.
Relax by the River Walk
Meander along the River Walk in downtown Wausau, which follows the ebb and flow of the scenic Wisconsin River.
Escape into Oak or Fern Island
Head to Oak or Fern Island Park in the middle of the Wisconsin River, and enjoy the trail network that works its way through the island’s heavily wooded shoreline.
Bike on the Mountain Bay State Trail
Bring or rent a bike, and enjoy the miles of trails along the Mountain-Bay State Trail, where you’ll be surrounded by the colors of fall.
Walk Through a Historic Neighborhood
Enjoy the contrast of fall colors against the historic houses of Wausau, as you walk through the beautiful Andrew Warren Historic District.
