Skillet Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Oct 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrain
Photo Credits (5)
About Skillet Falls
Skillet Falls is a small, picturesque cascade tucked along the Wisconsin River in the Dells region of Wisconsin. Framed by sculpted sandstone and unusual rock formations, the falls offer a peaceful spot that draws photographers and nature lovers who appreciate quiet river scenery and textured, glacially carved cliffs. Many visitors experience the falls from the water, where the downward flow and surrounding sandstone create a photogenic, painterly scene. The Dells area also includes notable nearby natural features such as Pewit's Nest State Natural Area, outside Baraboo in Sauk County, whose deep gorge was carved during the retreat of the last glacier. Pewit's Nest’s history adds local color—at one time a waterwheel and mill stood on the site, and an individual even lived in the solid sandstone—making the broader area great for combining a river trip to Skillet Falls with short hikes and geological sightseeing.
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
There is no officially designated, maintained hiking trail that leads directly to Skillet Falls; most visitors reach it by watercraft such as kayaks or guided boat tours on the Wisconsin River.
What to Expect
Visitors can expect to see a serene waterfall surrounded by unique sandstone formations characteristic of the Wisconsin Dells area. The falls are relatively small but offer a peaceful and scenic experience.
Accessibility
The falls are not wheelchair accessible due to the need for watercraft to reach the location.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Skillet Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🤑 Fee: $0.00
🏊 Is There Swimming at Skillet Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are ideal times to visit, as water levels in the Wisconsin River are typically higher, enhancing the waterfall's flow.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited.
Safety Information
Exercise caution when kayaking or boating near the falls, as the currents in the Wisconsin River can be strong. Always wear a life jacket and follow safety guidelines provided by rental operators.
Current Water Conditions
These readings come from the USGS gauge on Baraboo River, 7.3 miles away, not on Skillet Falls's own stream. Use them as a sign of whether the area is running wet or dry.
313 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
About average for this time of year
Based on 92 years of record
7.60 ft
Water depth at gauge
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
Flow is about average for this time of year.
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 BARABOO RIVER NEAR BARABOO, WI (12 km away).
Today
Barely Flowing
313 cfs
5/10Tomorrow
Barely Flowing
313 cfs
5/10Mon
Barely Flowing
326 cfs
4/10Tue
Low
347 cfs
4/10Wed
Low
345 cfs
4/10Thu
Low
354 cfs
4/10Fri
Low
360 cfs
4/10Best window: Today — barely flowing flow, partly sunny (trip score 5/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from early March to late May, peaking in March.
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 West Baraboo 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 26 feet through Skillet Falls over a long run of ledges. Elevation at the pin is about 971 feet.
Both above and below, the ground is gentle; the falls are the one abrupt step in an otherwise easy-going creek. Facing northwest, 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
- 971 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 26 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
Skillet Falls is located near the Wisconsin Dells area. Access is typically via boat tours or kayaking along the Wisconsin River, as the falls are not directly accessible by road or hiking trails.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking is available at nearby boat tour facilities or kayak rental locations in the Wisconsin Dells area.
Elevation
981 feet above sea level
Coordinates
43.446651° N, -89.772902° W
Visitor Tips & Gear
Consider visiting during the spring or early summer when water levels are higher, as the flow of the falls may be more impressive. Bring a camera to capture the stunning rock formations and natural beauty.
Where to Stay
AmericInn & Suites by Wyndham Baraboo Event Center
avid hotel Wisconsin Dells Lake Delton by IHG
Tru By Hilton Wisconsin Dells
Staybridge Suites - Wisconsin Dells - Lake Delton 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
Wisconsin Dells attractions, including other rock formations like Witches Gulch and Stand Rock.
Wildlife
The area is home to various bird species, including herons and eagles, as well as small mammals and aquatic life.
Cities near Skillet Falls
Writing about Skillet Falls? Embed this waterfall on your site for free.