Big Manitou Falls

Big Manitou Falls is one of two waterfalls located in Pattison State Park. This waterfall on the Black River has the largest drop in the state of Wisconsin at 165 feet. It is also the fourth highest waterfall east of the Rocky Mountains. The water from the Black River cascades into a gorge made of both sandstone and basalt.

There are viewpoints of Big Manitou Falls on both the north and south side of the river. There are two parking areas for visitors to use to access the viewing areas. There is a large parking lot just past the entrance into the park that also serves the beach. From this lot head southwest past a shelter building and take the tunnel under Wisconsin Highway 35. The other smaller lot is just south of the entrance off County Road B. Cross County Road B to get to the viewing areas.

Since this waterfall is located in a state park, a fee must be paid to enter the park. A day use or annual permit can be purchased at the Park Office.