ID

10 things to do in Eau Claire this fall

Story Categories
Student Experience
Authored on
10 things to do in Eau Claire this fall
Updated on: October 1, 2025
Published on:
Intro text

There are so many places, events and things to do that will get Blugolds out exploring the campus and community. See why Eau Claire is consistently listed among the cool, hip, small cities in which to live.

Sections

1) Apple picking

Nothing says Midwest fall like the crunch of a fresh-picked apple. Just a short drive from campus, local orchards offer apple picking, cider donuts, wagon rides, glass blowing and more — perfect for a fall day out. Check out this list of area orchards in Eau Claire and Chippewa counties.

2) Blugold fall athletic events

Blugold pride runs high during fall sports at UWEC! From football and soccer to volleyball, tennis and more, there’s something for everyone. Grab your gear, rally your crew and cheer on your fellow students. See the full calendar of all fall sports.

Football game for UWEC in Carson Park

3) Fall hikes

Crisp fall air makes hiking even better — and you don’t have to go far. Start with the scenic 1.3-mile Putnam Trail along the Chippewa River or take the flatter Putnam Drive path. Ready to explore even more? Check out this Chippewa County Land Conservancy article, “10 hidden hiking gems in the Chippewa Valley.”

4) See the fall colors

As if the views on campus weren't enough, the Eau Claire and Chippewa Valley areas offer up some pretty magical places to see fall colors. See the Top Places to See Fall Colors In & Near Eau Claire — and don't forget to bring along your pumpkin spice latte!

A beautiful fall shot of the Chippewa river with changing trees in the background.

5) Haunted houses and trails

Find all the frights at the spookiest houses and trails around. Some of these haunting options are close to campus, and some call for a quick road trip. Go with a group of friends for the scare of your life! Check out all haunted house and trails details.
 

6) The Eau Claire Farmers Market

From fresh produce and local art to live music and coffee, the Eau Claire Downtown Farmers Market has it all. Open Saturdays (and Wednesdays/Thursdays through October) at Phoenix Park — just a 10-minute walk from campus. For more information, see Eau Claire Downtown Farmers Market.

Students peruse vegetables at the local Farmers Market.

7) Bike trails

Fall is the perfect time to explore our city via bike. The bike trails within the city limits are free of charge and take you to the many amazing bridges in town, including the historic Eau Claire High Bridge. With a day-pass purchase, you can also venture up to 30 miles north or south of the city on scenic trails. Bikes can be rented by students at the Environmental Adventure Center (EAC) in Hilltop Center. The Chippewa River Trail guide shows the city and county trails.

A group of bikers ride through a grassy trail in the summer

8) Corn maze attractions

A fall tradition, explore corn maze options at area orchards, pumpkin patches and even nearby livestock farms. And if you find a corn maze, chances are you’ll also find things like yard games, delicious fall treats and more. See Volume One’s list of corn maze locations.

9) Ride along on Eau Claire’s trolley tours

With a variety of tour options, the Chippewa River Trolley is a perfect way to learn more about the city and surrounding attractions, all while enjoying the views from an antique-style trolley car! It could be a great Family Weekend event or any time you have friends coming to visit you at UW-Eau Claire. Learn about the Chippewa River Trolley Co.

Chippewa Valley Trolley

10) Sign up for a UW-Eau Claire fall trip adventure through the EAC

If some serious outdoor adventure is right up your alley, then look no further than the EAC at UW-Eau Claire. With six different excursions to choose from, students can select trips that focus on rock climbing, canoeing, hiking, camping and more. Sign up for an incredible guided fall adventure with the EAC.

Two students kayak on the Chippewa River.

And so much more

The list above is just the beginning! Keep your eye on the digital displays across campus, our social media accounts and the various campus calendars for more fun coming your way all semester long. 

For the media
For the media
Image download

You may also like

New Mexico immersion students sit across from each other, down a long, covered porch, with plants and greenery around
South by Midwest: UW-Eau Claire Honors New Mexico Immersion
After a semester studying the intersection of American Indian art and modernism in New Mexico, 12 students traveled to Sante Fe and Taos for a two-week immersion experience. They left with new memories, new cultural fluencies and new friends, among communities in New Mexico and Wisconsin.