Sullivan Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrain
Photo Credits (2)
Difficulty
Easy
Trail Length
0.6 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
80 ft
About Sullivan Falls
Sullivan Falls is a small, picturesque cascade on Sullivan Creek that spills over a rocky ledge into a shallow, sun-dappled pool. Framed by a mix of pine and deciduous trees, the falls offer a peaceful forested setting that’s perfect for a short nature break, photography, or a quiet picnic beside flowing water. The site is well-suited to visitors looking for an easy outing: the trail to the falls is brief and accessible, making Sullivan Falls a popular stop for families and day hikers. If you’d like to turn the visit into an overnight trip, Boulder Lake Campground lies about 9.76 km (roughly 6.1 miles) away, providing nearby primitive camping and an opportunity to enjoy the area across multiple days.
The Setting
Sullivan Falls sits at 974 feet along the Wolf River, in the foothills of Wisconsin.
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The easy 0.6-mile out-and-back trail gains 80 feet of elevation on the way to the falls.
Trail Description
The trail to Sullivan Falls is an easy 0.6-mile out-and-back with about 80 feet of elevation gain, so most hikers can reach the falls with minimal effort. The route passes through a shaded wooded area of mixed pine and deciduous trees and is relatively flat, making it family- and dog-friendly. The path may be lightly worn or unmarked in places, so bringing a map or using a GPS app and paying attention to natural landmarks is recommended for first-time visitors.
What to Expect
Dogs are welcome.
Accessibility
The trail is short and relatively flat, but the surface may be uneven. Contact the managing agency for accessibility details.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Sullivan Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Sullivan Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are ideal times to visit, as the water flow is typically stronger due to snowmelt and rainfall.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited.
Safety Information
Exercise caution around the falls, as the rocks can be slippery. Be mindful of ticks and other insects in the area. Cell service may be limited, so plan accordingly.
Current Water Conditions
254 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Lower than usual for this time of year
Based on 59 years of record
7.66 ft
Water depth at gauge
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
Flow is lower than usual 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 WOLF RIVER AT LANGLADE, WI (16 km away).
Today
Low
254 cfs
6/10Tomorrow
Low
254 cfs
5/10Tue
Low
254 cfs
5/10Wed
Low
274 cfs
4/10Thu
Moderate
285 cfs
5/10Fri
Low
264 cfs
6/10Sat
Low
274 cfs
4/10Best window: Today — low flow, partly sunny (trip score 6/10).
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 Middle Village 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 16 feet through the falls, but gradually, the profile of a cascade rather than a plunge. The ground at the falls is roughly 973 feet above sea level.
Both above and below, the ground is gentle; the falls are the one abrupt step in an otherwise easy-going creek. Facing south, the falls sit in full sun for most of the day, best photographed early or late.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 973 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 16 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- South
- Sunlit most of the day. Go early or late for softer light.
A slice through the lidar ground surface, from above the falls to downstream (heading south).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Sullivan Falls is located near the town of Gordon, Wisconsin, in Douglas County. It can be accessed via a short drive from County Road Y. The falls are situated within a forested area, and visitors may need to follow a short, unmarked path to reach the site.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
There is limited roadside parking available near the falls. Visitors should ensure they park safely and avoid blocking any access roads.
Elevation
974 feet above sea level
Coordinates
45.052756° N, -88.659272° W
Visitor Tips & Gear
Wear sturdy shoes as the trail may be uneven in places. Bring insect repellent during the summer months as mosquitoes can be prevalent. Visit after a period of rain for a more robust water flow.
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For this easy 0.6 miles trail, lightweight trail shoes and a water bottle are usually sufficient. 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
Super 8 by Wyndham Antigo
Sleep Inn Antigo
Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Antigo by IHG
Soak, Relax & Explore! Walk to Wolf River
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
6.1 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
Nearby attractions include Pattison State Park and Amnicon Falls State Park, both of which feature additional waterfalls and hiking opportunities.
Wildlife
The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, birds, and small mammals. Visitors may also spot wildflowers during the spring and summer months.
Cities near Sullivan Falls
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Other waterfalls named Sullivan Falls
1 other waterfall shares this name across the U.S.
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