Fall Colors in Milwaukee, WI 2024
Maples and oaks decorate Milwaukee for nature's best annual festival
Best time: early September – late October
As the air begins to cool, vibrant autumn comes to Milwaukee. The largest city of the state of Wisconsin has no shortage of beautiful scenery since it's surrounded by Lake Michigan, and three rivers: the Menomonee, the Kinnickinnic, and the Milwaukee. The city also boasts 150 parks and miles of scenic trails, perfect for fall foliage walks.
When to see fall colors in Milwaukee
Fall foliage season in Milwaukee usually starts in early September and lasts for a few weeks. The peak season falls around the third week of October. The average temperature during this time is 71 °F (22 °C) to 59 °F (15 °C) so it's perfect for hiking and spending as much time outside as possible.
Grant Park
The most famous place to observe the golden autumn is Grant Park. Maple, birch, ravine, and white ash create beautiful scenery on the area of 381 ac (1.54 sq km). The park offers a place for any activity: hiking, cycling, and, of course, autumn picnics. The 2-mi (3.2-km) Seven Bridges Trail is one of the most popular fall hikes.
Holy Hill Basilica in Hubertus
Holy Hill Basilica in Hubertus is beautiful at any time of the year. But autumn is a special time, when everything looks immersed in colors. The basilica is surrounded by slopes covered with deciduous trees at an altitude of 1,300 ft (396 m). Visitors can climb a 178-step observation tower to enjoy a postcard-like view of Milwaukee.
Oak Leaf River Trail
Oak Leaf River Trail, running along Lake Michigan, is perfect for a fall bike trip or simply a long walk to enjoy magnificent views of the colored trees. Overall, 135 miles of trail are available for outdoor activities. The trail includes rural plains, hilly city streets, and Lake Michigan's beautiful shoreline. The western section of the trail goes along the Little Menomonee River through a beautiful deciduous forest. The trail goes further through W Kinnickinnic Parkway and Whitnall Park, ending on the shore of Lake Michigan.
Schlitz Audubon Nature Center
Another good fall destination in the Milwaukee area is the Schlitz Audubon Nature Center, which, in addition to the park, also has an observation tower 60 ft (18 m) high. 15 mi (25 km). Stop by the Mystery Lake to see some beautiful reflections and check out the observation deck overlooking the North Ravine Trail.
Practical info
When is the ideal time to get a view of fall colors in Milwaukee?
Milwaukee's fall foliage usually starts in September and lasts a few weeks, with its peak around the third week of October, offering the best viewing experience. The favorable weather, with temperatures ranging from 71 °F (22 °C) to 59 °F (15 °C), makes it a perfect time to enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking and other fall-themed adventures.
What is the temperature like during the Milwaukee fall foliage season?
During the Milwaukee fall foliage season, the weather is mild, with temperatures ranging from 71 °F (22 °C) to 59 °F (15 °C). It's a perfect time to enjoy numerous outdoor activities such as cycling, hiking, and picnicking. This comfortable average temperature also creates an environment that's exemplary for a beautiful scenery to take in the lovely autumn colors.
What other major attractions besides Grand Park offer fall foliage in Milwaukee?
Aside from Grand Park, Milwaukee offers several other magnificent destinations to explore fall foliage. The Schlitz Audubon Nature Center, which has a 60 ft (18 m) observation tower, and the 15 mi (25 km) Oak Leaf River Trail, which passes along Lake Michigan, showcasing magnificent views of the forests. Another great recommendation is Holy Hill Basilica in Hubertus, a significant religious site wonderfully adorned with lovely, colored trees every fall season.
