Big Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrain
Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Easy
Trail Length
0.5 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
About Big Falls
Big Falls is a scenic waterfall located in Big Falls County Park, Wisconsin. It features cascading falls over rocky terrain, making it a popular spot for nature enthusiasts and photographers. The falls are surrounded by lush forest, offering a peaceful and picturesque setting.
The Setting
Big Falls sits at 820 feet along the Chippewa River, in the foothills of Wisconsin.
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
The trail to Big Falls is short and easy, making it accessible for most visitors. It leads through a wooded area to the waterfall, with minimal elevation gain. The path may be uneven in some spots due to rocks and roots.
What to Expect
Swimming is permitted. Dogs are welcome.
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 Big Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Big Falls?
✅ Swimming is allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are the best times to visit, as the water flow is typically strongest during these seasons. Fall offers beautiful foliage, while summer provides warm weather for outdoor activities.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited.
Safety Information
Be cautious near the water as rocks can be slippery. Avoid swimming during high water levels or strong currents. Always supervise children near the falls.
Current Water Conditions
1,110 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Much lower than usual for this time of year
Based on 133 years of record
2.53 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
This gauge is on a nearby waterway and may not reflect exact conditions at the falls.
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge CHIPPEWA RIVER AT CHIPPEWA FALLS, WI (15 km away).
Today
Moderate
1110 cfs
6/10Tomorrow
Moderate
1166 cfs
6/10Tue
Moderate
1236 cfs
6/10Wed
Moderate
1320 cfs
6/10Thu
Moderate
1344 cfs
6/10Fri
Moderate
1229 cfs
6/10Sat
Moderate
1282 cfs
6/10Best window: Today — moderate flow, mostly cloudy (trip score 6/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from late March to mid June, peaking in April.
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 Fall Creek 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.
1-meter lidar measures about 42 feet of descent through Big Falls, a steep tiered drop rather than a single free fall. The brink sits at about 820 feet above sea level.
The ground changes about 40 feet in the 500 feet above the falls and 11 feet in the 500 feet below. Facing southwest, the falls glow in afternoon and evening light.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 820 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 42 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- Southwest
- Glows in afternoon and evening light.
A slice through the lidar ground surface, from above the falls to downstream (heading southwest).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Big Falls is located in Big Falls County Park, near Eau Claire, Wisconsin. The park is accessible by car, and the falls are a short walk from the parking area.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
There is a designated parking area at Big Falls County Park, which provides easy access to the waterfall.
Elevation
820 feet above sea level
Coordinates
44.820794° N, -91.294321° W
Visitor Tips & Gear
Wear sturdy shoes as the trail may have uneven terrain. Bring insect repellent during warmer months, and be cautious near the water as rocks can be slippery.
Where to Stay
Home2 Suites Eau Claire South, Wi
SpringHill Suites by Marriott Eau Claire
Riverstone Suites by Cobblestone Hotels - Chippewa Falls
Holiday Inn Eau Claire South I-94 by IHG
Browse vacation cabins and private rentals nearby
Unique outdoor stays — tents, yurts, and treehouses
Rent a campervan or RV for your waterfall road trip
Some links are affiliate links. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
Additional Information
Nearby Attractions
Nearby attractions include Eau Claire Dells and other parks in the area, offering additional hiking and outdoor activities.
Wildlife
The area is home to various bird species, deer, and small mammals. Visitors may also encounter insects such as mosquitoes during warmer months.
Cities near Big Falls
Other waterfalls named Big Falls
23 other waterfalls share this name across the U.S.
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