Wisconsin Road Trip: Lake Michigan to Devils Lake

Explore Wisconsin's diverse landscapes across a 5,150 km route connecting 26 key destinations. From Lake Michigan's Great Lakes shoreline through Milwaukee and Door County to the wilderness areas of Peshtigo River, Trempealeau National Wildlife Refuge, and Devils Lake, this route showcases the state's natural and cultural landmarks including the Wisconsin State Capitol and Holy Hill National Shrine.

Distance
5150.3 km
Mode
route
Start
Welcome to Wisconsin
End
Anderson Park
Stops
26
Video author
travmap
Updated

Stops on this route

  1. Welcome to Wisconsin
  2. Lake Michigan — Second largest of the Great Lakes and largest freshwater lake in the US
  3. Peshtigo River — Hidden gem flowing through Governor Earl Peshtigo River State Forest, 9,000+ acres of pristine wilderness
  4. Lake Geneva — Pristine alpine-style lake surrounded by elegant Victorian mansions and luxury resorts, popular for boating and waterfront dining.
  5. Fox River
  6. Big Round Lake
  7. Trempealeau National Wildlife Refuge — 6,200 acres protecting Mississippi River floodplain with wetlands, forests, and prairies
  8. Half Moon Lake — Serene crescent-shaped lake nestled in Wisconsin's Northwoods with lush pine shores
  9. Devils Lake — Dramatic glacial lake enclosed by 500-foot quartzite bluffs, Wisconsin's most visited state park with hiking and water sports.
  10. Balsam Lake — Tranquil northern Wisconsin lake surrounded by dense forests, offering peaceful fishing and cottage retreats.
  11. La Crosse — Hidden gem tucked in dramatic bend of Mississippi River where Wisconsin meets Minnesota and Iowa; features Grandad Bluff (600 ft overlook) and scenic Riverwalk
  12. Baileys Harbor — Charming Door County village on Lake Michigan known for its protected harbor, lighthouse, and coastal cherry orchards.
  13. Door County — Boasts more shoreline than any other US county; combines rich history with breathtaking natural beauty
  14. Port Washington — Charming harbor town on Lake Michigan shore; features iconic Purehead Lighthouse at harbor entrance
  15. Milwaukee Art Museum — Iconic museum on Lake Michigan shores featuring distinctive wing-like Quadracci Pavilion that unfurls at sunrise and folds at sunset
  16. Holy Hill National Shrine of Mary — Gothic Revival church perched on a scenic hilltop in Fond du Lac County, a spiritual pilgrimage destination with panoramic views.
  17. Wisconsin State Capitol — Monumental Renaissance Revival building in Madison topped with a gilded dome, serving as the seat of Wisconsin government.
  18. Eau Claire — Historic river city in west-central Wisconsin known for its vibrant downtown, cultural venues, and outdoor recreation access.
  19. La Crosse Riverside Park Bandshell — Historic outdoor concert venue along the Mississippi River hosting summer performances and community events in scenic parkland.
  20. Stevens Point — Central Wisconsin city at the confluence of two rivers, recognized for craft brewing heritage and outdoor adventure access.
  21. Apostle Islands — Chain of 22 islands in Lake Superior featuring sea caves, lighthouses, and pristine beaches ideal for kayaking and exploration.
  22. Sister Bay
  23. Green Bay — Major city on Lake Michigan shores
  24. Kenosha County Courthouse — Romanesque Revival landmark showcasing ornate architecture and historical significance in southeastern Wisconsin.
  25. Lake Menomin — Dam-created reservoir offering fishing, boating, and scenic trails through Dunn County's rolling countryside.
  26. Anderson Park — Waterfront recreational area featuring hiking paths, scenic overlooks, and natural habitat preservation along Wisconsin's landscape.

Useful for your trip

Timing
Visit Lake Michigan beaches during summer months when swimmers frequent local beaches for the best water activity experience.
Tip
Explore the Geneva Lakeshore Path, a public footpath offering views of stunning Midwest homes and gardens along the lakeshore.
Tip
Experience Lake Geneva from a hot air balloon for an unforgettable aerial perspective of the area.
Transport
Use the Fox River water trail for a scenic float down the river, perfect for lazy river experiences accessible from Milwaukee and Lake Geneva areas.
Tip
Enjoy water activities at Lake Geneva including swimming, fishing, canoeing, scenic hikes, and bike rides along multiple trails.
Tip
Visit Peshtigo River for whitewater rafting suitable for intermediate to advanced paddlers, with scenic county parks and hiking trails.
Tip
Explore Trempealeau National Wildlife Refuge trails to spot bald eagles, hear spring peepers in marshlands, and learn about beaver dam habitats through guided tours.
Tip
Visit Half Moon Lake in Wisconsin's Northwoods for kayaking, fishing, and tranquility amid serene crescent-shaped waters and lush pine shores.
Tip
Fish at Big Round Lake which offers ideal habitat for musky, bass, pike, panfish, and walleye with a public boat landing.
Where to stay
Milwaukee offers 1,400 acres of beaches and parkland adjacent to Lake Michigan, named one of Travel Channel's top 11 city beaches.

Video on this route

Wonders of Wisconsin | Secret Places Only Locals Know About | Travel Video 4K

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