Apple River Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrain
Photo Credits (4)
Difficulty
Easy
Trail Length
0.4 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
50 ft
About Apple River Falls
Apple River Falls is a small but picturesque waterfall located near Somerset, Wisconsin. It is part of the Apple River, a popular destination for tubing and outdoor recreation. The falls are surrounded by a mix of forested and rocky terrain, offering a serene natural setting.
The Setting
Apple River Falls sits at 741 feet along the Apple River, in the foothills of Wisconsin.
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The easy 0.4-mile out and back trail gains 50 feet of elevation on the way to the falls.
Trail Description
There is limited information about a specific trail leading to Apple River Falls. Visitors may need to explore the area on foot or follow informal paths to reach the falls.
What to Expect
Expect a peaceful and scenic waterfall surrounded by natural beauty. The area may be less developed, so visitors should prepare for uneven terrain and limited facilities.
Accessibility
The trail is short and relatively flat, but the surface may be uneven. Contact the managing agency for accessibility details.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Apple River Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Apple River Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are ideal for visiting, as water flow is typically higher due to snowmelt and rainfall. Fall offers beautiful foliage, while winter may provide a unique frozen waterfall experience.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter.
Safety Information
Visitors should be cautious of slippery rocks near the falls, especially after rain or during winter when ice may form. Always stay on safe, stable ground and avoid getting too close to the edge of the falls.
Current Water Conditions
220 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Much lower than usual for this time of year
Based on 2 years of record
3.10 ft
Water depth at gauge
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
Flow is well below normal for this time of year, so the waterfall may be a trickle.
About This Gauge
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge APPLE RIVER ABOVE 05341499 AT PARK IN SOMERSET, WI (4 km away).
Today
Low
251 cfs
3/10Tomorrow
Barely Flowing
222 cfs
4/10Thu
Barely Flowing
205 cfs
5/10Fri
Barely Flowing
202 cfs
5/10Sat
Barely Flowing
199 cfs
3/10Sun
Barely Flowing
194 cfs
5/10Mon
Barely Flowing
188 cfs
5/10Best window: Thu — barely flowing flow, partly sunny (trip score 5/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from late May to mid July, peaking in June.
How we calculate this
This is a transparent outlook, not a precise forecast. We take the waterfall's current flow strength (how it ranks against its historical normal for today, from the nearest USGS stream gauge), carry that ranking forward along the gauge's seasonal curve, and nudge it for forecast rain. Confidence is highest for the next day or two and falls further out. Always check official conditions and your own judgment before visiting — high flows can be dangerous.
Know when to go.
Get a free email alert when waterfalls near Somerset hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
Weather Forecast
The Terrain, Seen by LiDAR
Aircraft-mounted lasers measured this ground to within inches. Trees and buildings are digitally stripped away, leaving the bare shape of the land the water has carved.
The ground through the falls loses about 83 feet in steep steps rather than one leap. The ground at the falls is roughly 761 feet above sea level.
The ground changes about 24 feet in the 500 feet above the falls and 28 feet in the 500 feet below. The falls face northwest and glow in afternoon and evening light.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 761 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 83 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- Northwest
- Glows in afternoon and evening light.
A slice through the lidar ground surface, from above the falls to downstream (heading northwest).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Apple River Falls is located near Somerset, Wisconsin. The falls can be accessed via local roads, but specific directions may vary depending on the starting point. Visitors are advised to use GPS or consult local maps for accurate navigation.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking availability is unclear, but visitors may find parking along nearby roads or designated areas. It is recommended to check for signage or local guidelines.
Hours
Elevation
741 feet above sea level
Coordinates
45.157467° N, -92.712150° W
Visitor Tips & Gear
Wear sturdy footwear and bring a map or GPS device, as trails may not be well-marked. Check local conditions before visiting, especially during winter months when ice may make access more difficult.
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For this easy 0.4 miles trail, lightweight trail shoes and a water bottle are usually sufficient. Icy conditions are common in winter — traction cleats are a smart addition.
Columbia Watertight II Rain Jacket
Packs into its own pocket, seam-sealed, and keeps you dry from spray and surprise rain.
Polarized Sunglasses (Knockaround)
Cuts glare off the water so you actually see the falls — and your photos turn out better too.
Earth Pak Waterproof Dry Bag
Keeps your phone and gear dry when waterfall mist soaks everything else.
Waterproof Phone Pouch (AiRunTech)
Cheap insurance — take photos right next to the falls without killing your phone.
Kahtoola MICROspikes
Cult-favorite traction cleats that grip ice and wet rock — essential for winter waterfall hikes.
JOBY GorillaPod Starter Kit
Wraps around railings and rocks for long-exposure waterfall shots — no flat surface needed.
Where to Stay
The Outing Lodge
Best Western Plus New Richmond Inn & Suites
The Clear Lake Retreat
River Valley Inn & Suites
Browse vacation cabins and private rentals nearby
Unique outdoor stays — tents, yurts, and treehouses
Rent a campervan or RV for your waterfall road trip
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Additional Information
Nearby Attractions
The Apple River is a popular destination for tubing and other water activities. Somerset, Wisconsin, offers additional recreational opportunities and small-town charm.
Wildlife
The area around Apple River Falls may feature local wildlife such as birds, deer, and small mammals. Visitors should respect the natural habitat.
Cities near Apple River Falls
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