Copper Falls State Park

Copper Falls State Park sits in Ashland County in Wisconsin’s Northwoods, about two miles northeast of Mellen. The park protects a dramatic stretch of the Bad River and Tyler Forks River as they cut through ancient volcanic rock, forming a series of copper-tinted waterfalls and deep gorges that have been sculpting this landscape for millions of years. The dark, iron-stained water and surrounding red and black rock give the falls their distinctive reddish-brown color, and the surrounding hemlock, northern hardwood, and mixed conifer forest adds to the sense of raw, unhurried wilderness that keeps people returning here.

The Waterfalls and Gorges

The falls are the reason most people make the drive to Mellen, and they deliver. Copper Falls itself drops about 30 feet over a basalt ledge into a narrow gorge, while Brownstone Falls, just upstream on the Tyler Forks, presents an equally striking plunge. The two rivers meet near the gorge floor, and the trail system is designed to show off both from multiple vantage points. Observation decks and sturdy wooden bridges bring visitors close to the action without requiring any technical scrambling. The gorge walls in some places rise 60 to 100 feet above the water, exposing geological layers that date back over a billion years. Visiting in late September and early October adds the bonus of hardwood color reflecting off the dark water.

Trails Through the Gorge and Forest

The park has 17 miles of trails ranging from a crushed-granite, universally accessible path near the gorge viewpoints to longer backcountry loops through quieter stretches of forest. The main gorge loop, roughly two miles, is the most traveled route and connects the primary waterfall overlooks with the bridge crossings. It involves some moderate elevation change on wooden staircases and packed-surface paths, making it accessible for most hikers with reasonable mobility. For those wanting more distance, longer trails branch north and west into upland forest terrain where foot traffic thins considerably. The North Country National Scenic Trail passes through the park, adding a long-distance hiking connection for those following that corridor across the upper Midwest. In winter, groomed cross-country ski trails cover a portion of the trail network.

Swimming, Paddling, and the Lake

Loon Lake, within the park boundaries, provides a sandy swimming beach with a designated swim area and a paved accessible trail to the water’s edge. No lifeguard is on duty, so swimmers take responsibility for their own safety. The lake also has a small carry-in boat access for canoes and kayaks, making it a calm option for paddlers who want flatwater rather than the churning rivers below the falls. Fishing is available in both the lake and the rivers, with the Bad and Tyler Forks rivers holding rainbow, brown, and brook trout. A Wisconsin fishing license is required.

Camping

The campground at Copper Falls has over 50 sites accommodating tents and RVs, including sites with electrical hookups. A group camp area is available for organized parties. The campground is within easy walking distance of the trailhead and beach, which makes it a practical base for spending multiple days exploring the park rather than trying to pack everything into a single visit. Reservations are strongly recommended from late spring through early fall and can be made through the Wisconsin DNR reservation system.

Pet Policy

Leashed pets are welcome in many outdoor areas of the park, including the campground and the pet-friendly picnic area adjacent to the main picnic area. Pets are not permitted on the Doughboys Nature Trail, the route that leads to Copper Falls and Brownstone Falls, so there is no pet-friendly option for viewing those two falls. Pets are permitted on the Red Granite Falls Trail and on the Takesson and Vahtera Trails when they are not groomed for skiing. The leash must be eight feet or shorter at all times, and pets must remain under control and may not be left unattended. Pets are not permitted on the swimming beach or in the water at the designated swim area. Owners are expected to clean up after their animals throughout the park.

Wildlife to Be Aware Of

Black bears are present throughout the park and are more commonly encountered near campsites and trailheads, particularly during summer and fall when they are actively foraging. Store all food, coolers, and scented items in your vehicle or a bear-resistant container when not in use. Never leave food unattended at a campsite, and avoid cooking smells lingering on clothing or gear kept in your tent. If you encounter a bear on the trail, give it space, make noise, and do not run.

Deer ticks are a significant concern throughout the park, including on the gorge trails, in brushy areas along the lakeshore, and in grassy meadow edges. The risk is present from early spring through late fall, peaking in late spring and early summer. Wear long pants tucked into socks, use insect repellent containing DEET or permethrin on clothing, and do a thorough tick check on yourself, children, and pets after every outing. Prompt removal of attached ticks reduces the risk of Lyme disease and other tick-borne illnesses.

White-tailed deer move through the park regularly and are especially active at dawn and dusk. They are most often seen along roadsides and on quieter trail sections. Use caution when driving park roads in low light, and be aware that deer can react unpredictably if approached.

Practical Information

Copper Falls State Park is located at 36764 Copper Falls Road, Mellen, Wisconsin 54546, about two miles northeast of downtown Mellen via State Highway 169 and Copper Falls Road. The park entrance and parking areas are well signed from the highway. A vehicle admission pass is required to enter. Rates differ for vehicles with Wisconsin plates and out-of-state plates, and a 12-month pass is available as an alternative. Current pricing is listed on the Wisconsin DNR admission page. The park is open year-round from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m., though some facilities including the beach and full campground services are seasonal. The Doughboys Trail is not maintained in winter, and portions may close when ice and snow make the rock stairs slippery. Snowshoeing is available on other trails where conditions allow. Cell service in the area is limited, so downloading maps or printing information before arrival is advisable.