Shale Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Oct 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrain
Photo Credits (5)
About Shale Falls
Shale Falls is a small, picturesque cascade tucked into Wisconsin’s Brule River State Forest and managed by the State Department of Natural Resources (SDNR) as part of the forest’s State Recreation Management Area (SRMA). Framed by layered shale rock and quiet, mixed woods, the falls are a peaceful, lesser-known destination that rewards visitors with serene views and good photo opportunities away from busier parks. The nearest developed camping is Horseshoe Lake Recreation Area, about 32.2 km away, so plan overnight stays accordingly. Check Brule River State Forest notices from SDNR before you go for any seasonal information or access updates.
The Setting
Shale Falls sits at 692 feet within Brule River State Forest, in the foothills of Wisconsin.
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
Difficulty: Moderate. Trail type: out-and-back. Terrain: wooded sections with uneven footing and short, moderate climbs; the route leads through forested tread to the waterfall. Surface/grade/class: SDNR records do not document a formal trail surface, grade, or technical class for this route, so expect natural, sometimes rocky or rooty trail conditions. Managed by: SDNR within Brule River State Forest (SRMA).
What to Expect
Visitors can expect a tranquil setting with a small waterfall cascading over shale rock formations. The area is surrounded by natural beauty, making it a great spot for photography and quiet reflection.
Accessibility
Accessibility information is not available. The trail may not be suitable for individuals with mobility challenges.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Shale Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Shale Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are ideal times to visit, as water flow is typically 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 be cautious of slippery rocks near the waterfall and uneven terrain on the trail. Check weather conditions and avoid visiting during heavy rain or icy conditions.
Current Water Conditions
These readings come from the USGS gauge on Bois Brule River, 10.6 miles away, not on Shale Falls's own stream. Use them as a sign of whether the area is running wet or dry.
116 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Much lower than usual for this time of year
Based on 81 years of record
1.54 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 BOIS BRULE RIVER AT BRULE, WI (17 km away).
Today
Barely Flowing
116 cfs
5/10Tomorrow
Barely Flowing
118 cfs
5/10Tue
Barely Flowing
115 cfs
5/10Wed
Barely Flowing
117 cfs
4/10Thu
Barely Flowing
125 cfs
3/10Fri
Low
133 cfs
4/10Sat
Low
129 cfs
4/10Best window: Today — barely flowing flow, sunny (trip score 5/10).
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 Brule hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
Is Shale Falls Frozen?
Updated about 17 hours agoNot frozen highs above freezing lately
Shale Falls is not frozen right now; highs have been above freezing. Yesterday ran 34°F to 25°F.
- Days below freezing
- 0 of the last 14
- Current cold streak
- 0 days
- Freezing days ahead
- 0 of the next 7
- Flow
- 118 ft³/s
Winter safety. Frozen falls are the one waterfall trip with a documented injury pattern: falling ice, and ice-glazed rock and trail. Wear microspikes, keep well back from the base and from overhangs, and never walk out on ice over moving water.
Estimate from Open-Meteo daily temperatures at the falls, the LiDAR-measured facing direction, and the nearest stream gauge. It is a likelihood, not a report from the trail. See every frozen waterfall in Wisconsin.
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 28 feet through Shale Falls over a long run of ledges. Elevation at the pin is about 695 feet.
The ground changes about 81 feet in the 500 feet above the falls and 30 feet in the 500 feet below. The falls face northeast and catch soft morning light.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 695 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 28 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- Northeast
- Catches soft morning light.
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
Shale Falls is located in a rural area of Wisconsin. Specific directions may vary, so it is recommended to use a GPS or consult local maps for the most accurate route.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking availability is unclear, but visitors may need to park along nearby roads or at designated trailheads if available.
Elevation
692 feet above sea level
Coordinates
46.691049° N, -91.600186° W
Land Management
Managed by SDNR
Visitor Tips & Gear
Wear sturdy footwear as the terrain may be uneven. Bring insect repellent during warmer months and check weather conditions before visiting.
Where to Stay
Lift Bridge Lodge, an Ascend Collection Hotel
Pier B Resort
South Pier Inn
Cobblestone Hotel & Suites - Superior Duluth
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
Horseshoe Lake Recreation Area
20 miles away · 0 sites
If you looking for an equestrian style base camp to explore area trails or a destination campground with plenty of room for your family, try the Horseshoe Lake Recreations Area located north of Ino, Wisconsin on the Washburn Ranger District. The terrain is gently rolling with a sandy loam surface ideal for horse riding. The trail weaves through towering pine and hardwood forests as well as through the area's open barrens. Whether you are interested in plants, scenery or wildlife, touring the trai
Book on Recreation.govAdditional Information
Nearby Attractions
Nearby attractions may include other natural landmarks and hiking trails in the region. Specific recommendations are not available.
Wildlife
The area may host a variety of wildlife, including birds, deer, and small mammals. Visitors should respect the natural habitat.
Cities near Shale Falls
Writing about Shale Falls? Embed this waterfall on your site for free.