As the weather begins to cool and transitions from summer to fall, it becomes easier to find an excuse for a fall getaway to witness the vibrant foliage. While there are numerous places to enjoy autumnal colors, one of the most picturesque is just 10 miles northwest of Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Havenwoods State Forest, located a short drive from the state’s most populous city, is the only urban state forest in the area. In addition to stunning fall foliage views, the forest offers over 200 acres of hiking trails, biking routes, and water attractions.
While many may associate the state forest with summer activities, it transforms into a leaf lover’s dream during the fall season. As temperatures drop, the leaves shift from bright green to shades of gold, brown, orange, and purple. The peak foliage timing depends on factors such as sunlight and temperature, but in Wisconsin, the peak typically occurs between mid-September and October.
Because Havenwoods State Forest is less than 10 miles from Milwaukee, visitors can plan a full day or even a weekend trip. There are numerous fall-related activities available in and around the city. Travelers can explore pumpkin patches and apple orchards, celebrate Oktoberfest in one of the most German-populated cities in the country, or test their courage at local corn mazes or ghost tours.
Havenwoods State Forest, Wisconsin’s only urban state forest, spans 237 acres of fields and woods that are open year-round. For those looking to fully immerse themselves in the beauty of autumn, the forest offers a variety of nature activities. It features more than six miles of trails for hikers and runners, sprawling wetlands, woods, and grasslands. There are four distinct trails that vary in length, scenery, and difficulty, with the shortest being 0.7 miles and the longest stretching to 2.7 miles. These trails guide visitors through tallgrass prairies, hardwood forests, ponds, and bridges, providing a continuous immersive experience of the fall foliage.
In addition to the trails, the forest includes a geocaching adventure, picnic areas, dog-friendly walking paths, biking trails, and the Environmental Awareness Nature Center. The “Trek Through Time” geocaching adventure starts at the nature center and encourages visitors to solve puzzles while learning about the historical significance of the forest. The nature center also hosts seasonal exhibits that educate visitors about the history of the forest and the animals that inhabit it. During the fall, the forest offers family-friendly events such as animal feeding, arts and crafts, and guided nature hikes.
No matter how someone chooses to enjoy Havenwoods State Forest, its proximity to downtown Milwaukee allows locals and tourists to escape the city’s hustle and bustle for a peaceful fall retreat.
Planning a fall adventure to Milwaukee and Havenwoods State Forest is straightforward. Tourists can fly into the Milwaukee Mitchell International Airport and rent a car for the 16-mile drive to the forest. There are numerous motels and hotels, including both chain and boutique options, in and around the greater Milwaukee area.
Once accommodations are secured, travelers can enjoy a range of autumnal activities for both adults and families, both within the city and just outside of it. For example, the Peck & Bushel apple orchard is located 30 miles from the city, where over 30 varieties of organic apples are grown on more than 30,000 trees. If visitors are interested in corn mazes and pumpkin patches, they can take a 30-mile drive to the Elegant Farmer, where they can enjoy homemade fall delicacies like Apple Pie Baked in a Paper Bag and the signature Pumpkin Apple Bread.
For those who prefer to stay closer to Milwaukee, there are still plenty of seasonal activities to enjoy. The city’s annual Oktoberfest takes place early each October in downtown Milwaukee, offering a celebration similar to the original German event. For those seeking a spooky experience, they can stay at one of Milwaukee’s haunted hotels, such as Brumder Mansion Bed & Breakfast or Pfister Hotel, or explore the city’s mysterious past on a ghost tour. Those looking to continue their foliage hunt can take in the sights at Lake Park, Lakeshore State Park, and Grant Park, all of which are located near Lake Michigan in downtown Milwaukee.
