LiDAR terrain view · USGS 3DEP
Gilmer Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrainAbout Gilmer Falls
Tucked away in a quiet wooded stretch of Wisconsin, Gilmer Falls is a small, lesser-known cascade on a tributary creek that offers a peaceful, picturesque stop for people who appreciate secluded nature scenes. The falls sit amid dense forest and seasonal undergrowth, making the setting especially lovely in spring runoff or after a summer rain. Because the waterfall is on private property, access can be restricted — plan ahead, seek permission from landowners where required, and tread lightly to preserve the area’s tranquility. For those who do visit, expect a low-key, off-the-beaten-path experience rather than a developed day-use site. The approach is informal and can involve uneven footing and short bushwhacks through woodland; bring appropriate footwear and be prepared for limited signage or maintained infrastructure. Respect property boundaries and local rules, and carry out what you carry in to help keep this small waterfall serene for others.
The Setting
Gilmer Falls sits at 863 feet along the Red River, in the foothills of Wisconsin.
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
There is no officially documented USFS trail number or maintained public trail to Gilmer Falls. A commonly used route to the falls is an approximately 2.4-mile out-and-back hike with about 350 feet of elevation gain, and is typically rated moderate in difficulty. Surface, grade, and formal trail class are not documented, so hikers should expect natural, uneven terrain, possible informal boot paths, and short sections of off-trail travel. Access may cross or approach private land — obtain permission when necessary and follow Leave No Trace practices.
What to Expect
Expect a small, tranquil waterfall surrounded by natural scenery. The area may not have any developed facilities or marked trails.
Accessibility
Accessibility is unknown, and the area may not be suitable for visitors with mobility challenges.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Gilmer Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Gilmer Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are typically the best times to visit, as water flow is likely to be higher due to snowmelt and rainfall.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited.
Safety Information
Visitors should exercise caution when exploring undeveloped areas. Be aware of slippery rocks, uneven terrain, and potential wildlife encounters. Always respect private property boundaries.
Current Water Conditions
113 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
57°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 57 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 (11 km away).
Today
Barely Flowing
114 cfs
5/10Tomorrow
Low
123 cfs
4/10Thu
Low
128 cfs
4/10Fri
Barely Flowing
119 cfs
5/10Sat
Barely Flowing
114 cfs
4/10Sun
Barely Flowing
114 cfs
5/10Mon
Barely Flowing
114 cfs
5/10Best 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.
1-meter lidar shows the creek losing roughly 21 feet through Gilmer Falls over a long run of ledges. Elevation at the pin is about 862 feet.
Both above and below, the ground is gentle; the falls are the one abrupt step in an otherwise easy-going creek. 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
- 862 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 21 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
The exact location of Gilmer Falls is not widely documented, but it is believed to be near the town of Gilmer in Wisconsin. Visitors should research local maps and confirm access permissions before planning a visit.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking availability is unclear, as the waterfall is on private property. Visitors should inquire locally or contact property owners for guidance.
Hours
Elevation
863 feet above sea level
Coordinates
44.842479° N, -88.722604° W
Visitor Tips & Gear
Contact local authorities or property owners to confirm access permissions. Bring appropriate footwear if walking through natural terrain.
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
Some links are affiliate links. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
Nearby Campground
BOULDER LAKE
20.9 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
Explore other natural attractions in Wisconsin, such as state parks or larger waterfalls like Big Manitou Falls.
Wildlife
The area may host typical Wisconsin wildlife, including birds, deer, and small mammals.
Cities near Gilmer Falls
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