Brownstone Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrain
Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Easy
Trail Length
1.2 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
100 ft
About Brownstone Falls
Brownstone Falls is a stunning waterfall located in Copper Falls State Park, Wisconsin. It is part of the Bad River and is known for its dramatic drop and reddish-brown rock formations, which give the falls its name.
The Setting
Brownstone Falls sits at 971 feet within Copper Falls State Park, fed by the Tyler Forks River, in the foothills of Wisconsin.
Nearby Falls Worth Visiting
Potato River Falls (90 ft) lies 7.9 miles to the northeast.
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The easy 1.2-mile out-and-back trail gains 100 feet of elevation on the way to the falls.
Trail Description
The trail to Brownstone Falls is part of the Doughboys Nature Trail, a well-maintained loop that also includes views of Copper Falls. The trail is relatively flat with some stairs and boardwalks, making it accessible for most visitors.
What to Expect
Dogs are welcome.
Accessibility
The trail is not wheelchair accessible. Uneven terrain and elevation changes require steady footing.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Brownstone Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🤑 Fee: $8.00
🏊 Is There Swimming at Brownstone Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
The best time to visit is in the spring when water flow is at its peak, or in the fall for stunning foliage. Summer is also popular for warm weather and clear trails.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited.
Safety Information
Stay on marked trails and observe caution near the edges of the falls. Rocks can be slippery, especially after rain. Be aware of ticks and other insects in the area.
Current Water Conditions
7 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Lower than usual for this time of year
Based on 15 years of record
2.94 ft
Water depth at gauge
57°F
ColdBracing — limit time in water
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
Flow is lower than usual for this time of year. Water temperature is a bracing 57 degrees F, limit your time in the water. Expect excellent dissolved oxygen levels. Mineral content is typical.
Water Quality
Dissolved Oxygen
ExcellentSupports aquatic life
Conductance
Dissolved minerals in the water
About This Gauge
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge TYLER FORKS RIVER AT STRICKER ROAD NEAR MELLEN, WI (4 km away).
Today
Strong
8 cfs
8/10Tomorrow
Moderate
7 cfs
8/10Tue
Strong
10 cfs
8/10Wed
Strong
12 cfs
8/10Thu
Strong
13 cfs
8/10Fri
Moderate
15 cfs
9/10Sat
Moderate
12 cfs
9/10Best window: Fri — moderate flow, mostly sunny (trip score 9/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from mid March to early 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 Mellen 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 98 feet of descent through Brownstone Falls, a steep tiered drop rather than a single free fall. The brink sits at about 967 feet above sea level.
The ground changes about 94 feet in the 500 feet above the falls and 42 feet in the 500 feet below. The falls face northwest and stay mostly shaded, with soft, even light all day.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 967 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 98 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- Northwest
- Mostly shaded, so the light stays soft and even all day.
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
Brownstone Falls is located within Copper Falls State Park, near Mellen, Wisconsin. The park is accessible via State Highway 169. Once inside the park, follow signs to the main parking area near the trailheads.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Ample parking is available at Copper Falls State Park, including spaces near the trailhead leading to Brownstone Falls.
Elevation
971 feet above sea level
Coordinates
46.376339° N, -90.641017° W
Land Management
Managed by SDNR
Visitor Tips & Gear
Wear sturdy shoes as the trail may be slippery in wet conditions. Bring a camera to capture the scenic views. Arrive early during peak seasons to avoid crowds.
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This easy 1.2 miles hike is straightforward — comfortable trail shoes and plenty of water should do. Sun exposure on the trail makes good sun protection a must in summer.
Polarized Sunglasses (Knockaround)
Cuts glare off the water so you actually see the falls — and your photos turn out better too.
Columbia Watertight II Rain Jacket
Packs into its own pocket, seam-sealed, and keeps you dry from spray and surprise rain.
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.
JOBY GorillaPod Starter Kit
Wraps around railings and rocks for long-exposure waterfall shots — no flat surface needed.
Osprey Daylite Daypack
Light, organized, and just the right size for a day hike — fits water, snacks, and layers.
Where to Stay
Snow Otter Haus - 2
Snow Otter Haus - 1
Quality Inn Ironwood
Davos Chalet
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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Nearby Campground
MINERAL LAKE
10.7 miles away · 10 sites
Overview We apologize, this campground is currently closed. Recreation Boating, swimming and fishing are popular activities among visitors. A boat ramp to the lake is provided off of Forest Service Road 187, about a mile from the campground. Anglers can expect a catch of a variety of freshwater lake and river species, including musky, bass, walleye and pan fish. Eagle watching is also a popular pastime. The forest is home to hundreds of miles of off-road vehicle, hiking and mountain biking trails
Book on Recreation.govAdditional Information
Nearby Attractions
Copper Falls, Loon Lake, and the North Country National Scenic Trail.
Wildlife
The area is home to deer, birds, and other wildlife. Keep an eye out for bald eagles and other native species.
Cities near Brownstone Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
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