The Midwest may not be the first region that comes to mind when you think of natural wonders…but maybe it should be? It’s home to some of the country’s most stunning parks. From lakeshores to waterfalls to rugged landscapes, “flyover country” sure does deliver. In no particular order, here’s my list of the 10 most stunning parks in the Midwest:
1. Apostle Islands National Lakeshore – Wisconsin
(One of) Wisconsin’s crown jewels, this national lakeshore is located at the very top of the state and consists of 21 islands and 12 miles of mainland on Lake Superior. Visitors can explore sandstone sea caves (via kayak, I suggest), hike through old-growth forests, and take in stunning views of the lake.
As a Wisconsin native, I vividly remember my first trip to the Apostle Island’s National Lakeshore. I remember thinking the park looked so otherworldly to me – completely different from the part of Wisconsin I grew up in. While in the area, stay and explore Madeline Island, the only year-round inhabited Apostle Island. A Don’t Miss This Tip: Grab a drink at Tom’s Burned Down Cafe. You won’t regret it!
2. Voyageurs National Park – Minnesota
This park, which is located in Northern Minnesota near the Canadian border, is home to a vast network of interconnected lakes and waterways, making it ideal for canoeing and kayaking. Visitors can also hike through boreal forests and see a variety of wildlife, including moose and bald eagles.
To me, Voyageurs National Park is quintessential Minnesota. There are four large lakes and 25 smaller lakes. Rent a cabin nearby or pack the tent and set up camp on one of the many secluded islands.
If the aurora is active and the sky is clear, stay up a little later to try and catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights. They can show up any time of year but winter is your best bet!
3. Isle Royale National Park – Michigan
Isle Royale National Park is considered to be one of the most beautiful yet isolated parks in the country. It’s located on an island, which explains why it’s one of the least visited national parks. Visitors can explore rugged forests, hike along rocky shores, and observe wildlife, including wolves and moose.
Isle Royale is a backpacker’s paradise. In fact, my first backpacking trip brought me to this gorgeous remote island in the middle of Lake Superior, and it has left a wonderful little mark on me ever since.
4. Badlands National Park – South Dakota
Is Badlands National Park the crown jewel of the Midwest? Certainly could be. This one’s a stunner. The Badlands feature otherworldly landscapes with towering rock formations and deep canyons. Visitors can hike through the rugged terrain and see bison, pronghorn, and bighorn sheep. Even the drive around them is super stunning.
About 90 minutes west of Badlands National Park is Mount Rushmore National Memorial and the adorable little town of Keystone, SD. Bring your camera!
5. Pattinson State Park – Wisconsin
I have a penchant for Wisconsin State Parks and this one’s a thing of beauty. Pattison State Park is known for its impressive waterfalls, including Big Manitou Falls, which drops 165 feet, and is Wisconsin’s largest waterfall. Visitors can also hike through the forest and along the Black River.
6. Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore – Michigan
I made an impromptu detour during a roadtrip through the UP of Michigan to Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore and I’m so glad I did. It’s absolutely gorgeous.
This lakeshore features towering sandstone cliffs, turquoise waters, and stunning waterfalls. Visitors can kayak along the shoreline or hike through the forest to see the park’s natural wonders.
7. Indiana Dunes National Park – Indiana
My mini golden doodle and I braved the busy trails at Indiana Dunes National Park, which is located less than an hour outside of Chicago. This park is home to 15 miles of Lake Michigan shoreline and towering sand dunes. Visitors can swim, hike, and birdwatch in this unique ecosystem. On a clear day, you can see the Chicago skyline in the distance.
8. Cave Point County Park – Wisconsin
Don’t let the fact that Cave Point’s designation as a ‘county park’ fool you. This Door County gem is absolutely stunning no matter the season. In fact, I’d suggest making your way there during the winter, when I find the park to be extra gorgeous and way less crowded.
Sturgeon Bay’s Cave Point features stunning limestone sea caves and in the summer, the underwater caves are popular among scuba divers. Visitors can also hike along the shoreline and take in views of the lake, but be careful, the terrain is rugged!
9. Amnicon Falls State Park – Wisconsin
Located outside of Superior, Wisconsin in the Northwest part of the state, Amnicon Falls State Park is home to a series of impressive waterfalls and rapids along the Amnicon River. Visitors can hike through the forest and take in the park’s natural beauty.
The geology of Amnicon Falls is fascinating:
While there hasn’t been an earthquake in Douglas County in 500 million years (give or take), there is a major fault line that runs right through the area. In fact, you can see the “Douglas Fault” for yourself when you visit Amnicon Falls: state on the covered bridge and you’ll notice the dark basalt of the upper falls and the sandstone layers just below. It’s pretty rare to see a fault line up close here in the U.S. so here’s your chance!
10. Split Rock Lighthouse State Park – Minnesota
Every photographer’s dream, Split Rock Lighthouse State Park in northeastern Minnesota is home to a historic lighthouse and stunning views of Lake Superior. Visitors can hike along the shoreline or tour the lighthouse to learn about its history.
The park offers 12 miles of hiking trails plus plenty of beautiful rivers and streams for fishing. Split Rock connects to 15 miles of the paved Gitchi-Gami STate Trail for hikers, runners, snowshoe enthusiasts and fat bike riders.
Note: Split Rock River waterfalls are located along the Superior Hiking Trail but access is weather dependent.
The Midwest is home to some of the most stunning parks in the country. From lakeshores to waterfalls to rugged landscapes, there’s something for everyone to explore and enjoy. Whether you’re a nature lover or just looking for a weekend getaway, these 10 parks are sure to impress!
