Where to see fall color in Boulder Junction

September 10, 2020

Prime fall color is right around the corner in the Northwoods, and Boulder Junction is the perfect place to take in this awe-inspiring show of nature. Whether you’re hiking, biking, driving, or boating, here are the best ways to experience the color show.

Before you get started, be sure to check out our fall color report (posted seasonally) on our website to see what conditions are like in the area. (And don’t forget your camera!)

On the road

One of the best ways to see Boulder Junction’s fall color is through your windshield as you drive a winding rural road on a beautiful autumn day. And one of the best places to do that is on Rustic Road 60 (also known as County Highway K), which travels east for 12 miles from just south of Boulder Junction to the neighboring community of Star Lake. Along the way, you’ll pass former logging camps, an old sawmill and several Northwoods lakes.

See more Vilas County scenic drives here.

On the hiking trails

If you’d like to take in Boulder Junction’s fall color at a little slower pace, find a hiking trail to explore. With plenty of trails to discover at places like the North Lakeland Discovery Center or the vast Northern Highland-American Legion State Forest, you’ve got no lack of options for a scenic stroll. See a Boulder Junction hiking guide here.

And don’t forget to download the free Vilas County trails app, where you can search for recreational trails (for hiking and much more) by location, length and other criteria.

On the biking trails

Tackle single-track mountain bike trails or enjoy a paved paradise—the choice is yours in Boulder Junction. Our bike trails will take you through beautiful scenery wherever you choose to ride. The Heart of Vilas County Paved Bike Trail stretches for more than 50 miles across the Northwoods, including a segment that travels through Boulder Junction. No fee or trail pass is required.

Head to the nearby WinMan Trails to ride half-mile to 12-mile loops of mountain biking trails amid the beautiful scenery of northern Wisconsin.

On the water

There are nearly 200 lakes within 10 miles of Boulder Junction, so that means a lot of opportunities for getting on the water—don’t miss paddling gems like Allequash Lake or the area’s secluded lake chains  In addition to the area’s scenic glacial lakes, canoers and kayakers can also paddle through wonderful Northwoods scenery on the Manitowish River.

See more information about canoeing, kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding in Boulder Junction.

Boaters can enjoy a cruise (or even cast for a few trophy fish) on the public-access lakes surrounding Boulder Junction. If you don’t have a boat, don’t worry—rentals are available at local businesses.

After a day (or weekend) of exploring beautiful Northwoods color, you’re going to need a place to stay. Browse our lodging property listings and find a cozy cabin or welcoming motel.