Freeman Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrain
Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Easy
Trail Length
1.0 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
About Freeman Falls
Freeman Falls is a quietly scenic waterfall tucked into Wisconsin’s wooded landscape, prized by hikers seeking a peaceful outing away from busier attractions. Its tucked-away feel makes it a great spot for a relaxed picnic or a short nature escape—photo-worthy cascades and riparian foliage reward visitors who take the trail down to the viewing area. As a lesser-known destination, Freeman Falls often offers a sense of solitude that pairs well with an easy afternoon hike. Reaching the falls involves a moderate out-and-back hike of about 2.4 miles round trip with roughly 350 feet of elevation gain. The route threads through forested terrain and can become muddy after rain, so sturdy footwear is recommended. With a brief but steady climb and a manageable distance, the trail is well suited to day hikers looking for a short wilderness experience without technical scrambling or special gear.
The Setting
Freeman Falls sits at 873 feet along the Red River, in the foothills of Wisconsin.
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
Trail length: 2.4 miles round trip (out-and-back). Elevation gain: approx. 350 feet. Difficulty: moderate. Surface and route: the path follows a natural dirt tread through wooded terrain and may feature exposed roots and leaf litter; expect muddy sections after rain. Grade and feel: mostly moderate grades with a few short, steeper pitches—non-technical hiking suitable for fit beginners and regular day hikers. Conditions: wear good traction footwear and be prepared for wet or slippery footing during and after precipitation.
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 Freeman Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Freeman Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are the best times to visit, as the waterfall is typically more active due to snowmelt and rainfall.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited.
Safety Information
The trail may be slippery after rain, and there are no guardrails near the waterfall. Exercise caution, especially with children.
Current Water Conditions
114 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
About average for this time of year
Based on 33 years of record
5.80 ft
Water depth at gauge
55°F
ColdBracing — limit time in water
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
Flow is about average for this time of year. Water temperature is a bracing 55 degrees F, limit your time in the water.
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 RED RIVER AT MORGAN ROAD NEAR MORGAN, WI (10 km away).
Today
Barely Flowing
115 cfs
5/10Tomorrow
Barely Flowing
115 cfs
4/10Tue
Barely Flowing
115 cfs
4/10Wed
Barely Flowing
124 cfs
3/10Thu
Low
129 cfs
4/10Fri
Barely Flowing
120 cfs
5/10Sat
Barely Flowing
124 cfs
3/10Best window: Today — barely flowing flow, partly sunny (trip score 5/10).
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 Gresham 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 bare-earth surface loses about 24 feet through the falls, but gradually, the profile of a cascade rather than a plunge. The ground at the falls is roughly 870 feet above sea level.
The ground changes about 7 feet in the 500 feet above the falls and 25 feet in the 500 feet below. Facing northeast, the falls 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
- 870 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 24 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- Northeast
- 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 northeast).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Freeman Falls is located near the town of Elroy, Wisconsin. Access may require navigating rural roads, so using a GPS or map is recommended.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
There is limited parking available near the trailhead. Visitors should plan to arrive early, especially during weekends or peak seasons.
Elevation
873 feet above sea level
Coordinates
44.844145° N, -88.737326° W
Visitor Tips & Gear
Visit during spring or after rainfall for the best water flow. Bring bug spray during summer months, as mosquitoes can be present. Arrive early to secure parking and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
Where to Stay
Boarders Inn & Suites by Cobblestone Hotels - Shawano
Cobblestone Inn & Suites - Clintonville
Haven Hotel Shawano WI
Landmark Motel
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
BOULDER LAKE
21 miles away · 99 sites
Overview Boulder Lake Campground is located on the shores of Boulder Lake in northern Wisconsin. It is the forest's largest campground but campsites fill up fast. The campground is home to individual and group sites, making it an ideal location to relax with friends or family. Recreational opportunities abound. Recreation Boulder Lake provides ample opportunities for power boating, water skiing, fishing and swimming. Anglers might catch walleye, northern pike, bass or panfish. Ice fishing is also
Book on Recreation.govAdditional Information
Nearby Attractions
The Elroy-Sparta State Trail, a popular rail-trail for biking and hiking, is located nearby.
Wildlife
Visitors may encounter birds, deer, and other small woodland animals in the area.
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