Copper Falls State Park, January 2020

 A magical winter day at Copper Falls State Park, Mellen, Wisconsin

Copper Falls State Park in northern Wisconsin is by far my favorite park and I have visited it many times. My recent visit on a snowy January day was one of my best experiences. I left in the morning on a beautiful sunny day with blue sky to drive to Ashland, Wisconsin. About half way (near Cable to be precise) I ended up driving in a snowstorm. I did not recall the weather report calling for a snowstorm?? But then around Lake Superior things can change quickly. On my way home I had planned to visit Copper Falls State Park (near Mellen) but did not know what to expect. As it turned out the park was right at the edge of that storm. It was mostly cloudy but once in a while the sun would peek through and surprise me with some magical moments. I only met 4 people on snow shoes during my 2 hrs stay so I felt I had the whole place to myself. And I thoroughly enjoyed the solitude!!

Follow me along on my hike through the park: 
(click on the photos to get a larger view)

One of those surprise moments of sunlight as I started my hike on a small snow shoe packed trail

Copper Falls seen from "the backside"

The confluence of the Bad River and Tyler Fork river

Two favorite Cedar trees along the Tyler Fork river with an interesting "Ice Cave"

A bit of sunshine peeking through the trees along the Tyler Fork river

Along the Tyler Fork river

The Cascades, Tyler Fork river - half frozen

View towards the Bad River gorge

The most magical moment happened as I stood at the overlook towards the Bad River gorge - the sun came through the clouds and illuminated snow crystals that blew off the trees

The most magical moment happened as I stood at the overlook towards the Bad River gorge - the sun came through the clouds and illuminated snow crystals that blew off the trees

Copper Falls, view from "the front"

Brownstone Falls - looks like dressed for a wedding

Snowy path - I loved the snow decorating the railings