Where to see Rusk County's best fall color

Rusk County comes alive with color every fall, and there are so many ways to explore this beautiful region of northwestern Wisconsin. Here's a look at how to enjoy your fall color trip, whether you're driving, walking, boating, or ATVing.

In your car

Wisconsin's system of Rustic Roads highlights less-traveled county highways noted for their natural beauty. That's particularly true for Rustic Road 114 in northwest Rusk County, which is located in the picturesque Blue Hills region. This 13-mile gravel route offers a great view of fall colors, as well access to several scenic lakes, including Perch, Audie and Bucks.

On two feet

Western Rusk County is home to a segment of the state's longest recreational trail--the 1,000-mile Ice Age Trail. The 12-mile section that passes through Rusk County offers an outstanding way for hikers to take in fall color as they pass remote lakes, gently flowing rivers and unique rock formations. To get to the Rusk County segment, just head west from Weyerhaeuser on County Highway O; parking is allowed on the side of the road by the trailhead.

The Reclaimed Flambeau Mine Nature Trails offer five miles of trails alongside the Flambeau River, traveling through meadows, wetlands and forests bursting with fall color. The trails are open to hikers and bikers, and leashed dogs are also allowed on the trail.

Discover more fall hiking routes here or see all hiking options here.

On the water

Interested in getting out on Rusk County's lakes and rivers to catch a little fall color (and maybe some fish)? Rusk County boasts more than 250 lakes and flowages of all sizes where anglers can track down musky, walleye, bass, perch and much more. If you want to leave the fishing tackle at home, boaters can also find fun and wonderful scenery in Rusk County in the fall.

Rusk County is the land of four rivers and getting out in a canoe or kayak is a great way to see fall colors from the water. Paddlers can explore several trip options on the Flambeau, Chippewa, Jump and Thornapple rivers, as well as public-access lakes like the Holcombe Flowage and Lake Flambeau (Dairyland Flowage). Learn more about canoeing & kayaking in Rusk County.

On your ATV

Rusk County offers great opportunities for ATVing, and there's no more scenic time than fall to get out on the trails. Head to the Blue Hills to find a beautiful 24-mile route or head to the Rusk County Forest for great riding. There's even a dedicated ATV campground at Perch Lake. Rusk County's ATV trails are open until the end of December (or whenever snowmobile trail grooming starts). Learn more about ATVing in Rusk County.