September in Wisconsin Dells is the perfect time for a drive. The air turns crisp, the leaves begin their transformation, and country roads reveal some of the state’s most beautiful landscapes. Whether you’re chasing fall colors or just looking for a quiet escape, these scenic drives near the Dells deliver unforgettable views.
Highway 12 – Rolling Hills and Farmland
Highway 12 stretches through the heart of Sauk and Columbia Counties, offering winding roads framed by farm fields and gentle hills. In September, fields of corn and soybeans turn golden while roadside maples and oaks begin to show their first touches of red and orange. It’s a classic Wisconsin countryside drive, best enjoyed with the windows down and a stop at a roadside stand for fresh produce.
Devil’s Lake Loop – Bluffs and Lakeside Beauty
Few drives in Wisconsin are as rewarding as the loop around Devil’s Lake State Park. The route winds past the park’s towering bluffs and provides access to several overlooks where you can pull off and take in the lake from above. In early fall, the oaks and maples that cling to the cliffs glow against the deep blue water, making this one of the most dramatic autumn views near the Dells.
Columbia County Backroads – Hidden Tunnels of Color
Just south of Wisconsin Dells, the backroads of Columbia County offer some of the most enchanting fall scenery. Narrow country lanes wind beneath canopies of trees, creating natural tunnels of gold and crimson. These roads are quieter than the highways, making them ideal for a slow, relaxing afternoon drive. It’s the kind of scenery that feels like a postcard come to life.
Wisconsin River Road – River Views and Peaceful Overlooks
Following the curves of the Wisconsin River, this drive offers wide-open vistas and peaceful pull-offs to admire the water. The sandstone bluffs and pine forests along the river create a unique mix of rugged beauty and calm reflection. In September, the riverbanks glow with the colors of early fall, and the stillness of the water mirrors the changing leaves above.
Stay Close to the Colors with High Tide Stays
The best way to enjoy Wisconsin’s fall beauty is at your own pace, and a scenic drive near the Dells is the perfect start. From winding farm roads to dramatic lake overlooks, September offers endless opportunities to explore. At High Tide Stays, you’ll be just minutes from these routes, giving you a comfortable home base to return to after a day on the road.
Book your September stay today and experience Wisconsin’s fall colors from behind the wheel and by the fire at High Tide Stays.
