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Big Manitou Falls
BigManitouFalls-WI-015-050507.jpg
Big Manitou Falls, the water's brown tint is caused by minerals
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Location Superior, Douglas County, Wisconsin, United States
Coordinates 46°32′10″N 92°07′17″W / 46.5360520°N 92.1213038°W / 46.5360520; -92.1213038
Elevation 958 ft
Total height 165 ft
Watercourse Black River

Big Manitou Falls is a really tall waterfall located in Wisconsin. You can find it on the Black River, which is a smaller river that flows into the Nemadji River. This amazing waterfall is part of Pattison State Park in Douglas County, Wisconsin. It's about 13 miles south of a city called Superior.

Wisconsin's Tallest Waterfall

Big Manitou Falls is the highest waterfall in all of Wisconsin. It drops an incredible 165 feet! To give you an idea, that's like falling from the top of a 16-story building. The water's brownish color comes from minerals in the rocks and soil.

A Special Name from Native Americans

Long ago, Native American tribes lived near these powerful falls. They believed they could hear the voice of the Great Spirit in the loud, roaring sound of the water. Because of this special connection, they gave the waterfall the name "Gitchee Manitou." This name means "Great Spirit" in some Native American languages. It shows how much they respected and honored this natural wonder.

Pattison State Park and Protection

In 1920, the land around Big Manitou Falls became a state park. This means the area is protected by the state government. It helps make sure that the waterfall and the beautiful nature around it can be enjoyed by everyone for many years to come. In 2003, the falls received even more protection when it was named a unit of the Wisconsin State Natural Areas Program. This program helps to preserve Wisconsin's best natural places.

Visitors to Pattison State Park can enjoy hiking trails that offer amazing views of Big Manitou Falls. It's a great place to see the power and beauty of nature up close!

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