- Please be considerate of others when you view a waterfall
- Don't spoil this special setting for others trying to connect with nature.
- Never jump off waterfalls. Never dive into, or swim in plunge pools
- Water depths will vary and there are often submerged ledges that you cannot see. Rocks and logs can also be hidden beneath the surface of the water.
- Undertows normally form in the plunge pools at the base of waterfalls with strong currents that can drag you and keep you underwater.
- Never wade or swim in the waters above or below a waterfall
- Most streambeds and riverbeds above a waterfall are solid rock that will be slippery. The currents can be deceptively strong and may push you over the falls.
- Streambeds and riverbeds are often rocky with sharp hidden edges below the spill pools.
- Never get too close to a ledge or drop-off
- Some of Wisconsin’s most scenic waterfall areas do not have protective fencing
- A few more tips to enjoy your visit
- Wear shoes or hiking boots with a good grip (no flip flops!).
- Since many waterfalls are in remote areas, a medical rescue could take hours.
- Mist from waterfalls can cause slippery rocks or mud along trails close to waterfalls. So watch your footing as you walk near the waterfall.
- Some of the hiking trails cross streams or are wet from springs. So, bring an extra pair of shoes and socks to leave in the car in case your feet get wet. An extra change of clothes is a good idea if you get caught in rain.
- Take time to enjoy the waterfall ...after all the effort you take to get there!
- Bring a snack and water.
- Practice "Leave No Trace" by removing any trash you bring in and any that you may find.
- Please respect the plant life, don’t break branches to get a better view.
- Do not approach or feed any wildlife you may encounter.
- During winter:
- Many times, a winter view is better since there are no leaves on the trees to hide parts of the falls.
- Watch for icy patches along the trail and from mist of the waterfalls. Bring a walking stick and always tap the snow drifts (hard) whenever you think you may be close to the edge of a creek or river. Open water may be several feet away and it may look like you will be stepping on snow-covered solid ground, but looks can be deceiving. Snowbanks often form over a thin layer of ice and can extend several feet from the banks of streams and rivers over flowing water. You may step through the snow into the cold waters, or worse, fall in completely.