Silent Sports in the La Crosse Region
Hiking & Fat Tire Biking
Special to the La Crosse Region with our fabulous bluffs and vistas are the miles and miles of trails to hike and fat-tire-bike! Grandad Bluff, a La Crosse gem, had six new miles created called the Gateway Trails. It’s become the perfect place to stop and admire the three different overlooks which are great for new and avid mountain bikers alike. For more trail opportunities, click HERE!
Ice Fishing
Ice fishing is next to none in the La Crosse Region and due to the safety aspects of it, has hit quite a boom this season! As Lake Onalaska and the many waterways freeze over, you can catch a wide range of fish; from bluegill to bass and walleye, the pan-fishing is some of the best all year.
Before you hit the ice, make sure to check up on safety tips and prepare accordingly. Need some new equipment? Check out Island Outdoors!
Snow Shoeing & Ice Skating
If snowshoeing is your forte, Lytle’s Landing is a nice and peaceful destination to explore. Not to worry if you don’t have snowshoes! The region has multiple locations to rent from! However, if you prefer the ice over snow, there are some legendary spots to ice skate as well! New this year, Lake Neshonoc has been maintained by local volunteers with ice skating paths! Skaters can enjoy a long journey along the lake, smooth and shoveled for enjoyment. Not to mention, the famous ice rink is back in Riverside Park this year!
Downhill Ski & Snowboarding
Mt. La Crosse is a regional favorite in the area and with the latest snows we have had, it is a must stop! Their hours and safety practices have changed to accommodate visitors’ safety, so it is a great place to enjoy the outdoors. For more details, you can visit Mtlacrosse.com. Oh! And when you need a quick break or are wrapping up your day of fun, swing into the St. Bernard Room in the lodge! Famous for both their old fashions and hot chocolates, it is a unique atmosphere enjoyed by all ages – kids will love to check out all the St. Bernard dog artwork that hangs frame-to-frame on the walls!
Where to Warm Up After the Adventure
Grab a Beer
Whether you want to warm up downtown at Turtle Stack Brewery or venture to North La Crosse at Pearl Street Brewery, the La Crosse Region is bursting with 4 breweries and a distillery that each offer a unique ambiance and flavors all their own. Looking for a full listing? Check out our Coulee Region Craft Beverage Trail and start checking the legendary craft beverage destinations off your bucket list!
Roll Into Fun
Don’t miss out on a great game of bowling at Features- West Salem! Warm up while watching the next big game on their large HD screens and eight lane bowling alley. Strike up a great conversation with friends and family all day long.
A Casual Bite to Eat
Buzzard Billy’s: Downtown La Crosse, WI
Swing through this casual and fun cajun restaurant and bar experience – What better way to warm up than with some spiced, New Orleans-styled foods and a classic beverage to quench your thirst?! Located downtown in an old brick hotel, Buzzard Billy’s is famous for its lively atmosphere. You’re sure to be impressed with the food… and if it gets too spicy, you can cross the street and cool your mouth down with a sweet treat from the legendary Pearl Ice Cream Parlor!
Crooked Pint: Onalaska, WI
For some can’t-miss burgers in the La Crosse Region, check out Crooked Pint Ale House! After all the energy you burned playing outside, why not carb up with a fat Juicy Lucy (stuffed burgers) with a side of jumbo tater tots? If a burger doesn’t match your post-adventure cravings, not to worry, they offer a wide variety of other pub classics and regional craft beverages!
Swing Bridge Pub: La Crescent, MN
Locally owned and operated inside the La Crescent Area Event Center, Swing Bridge Pub, is a quaint little spot that has fantastic appetizers, a wonderful salad bar and delicious Friday night fish fry and Saturday Prime Rib. Dinner is filled with phenomenal entrees, grilled pork chops, salmon, and tenderloin tips. The setting is relaxed and beautiful with a variety of art renderings from local artists, you will surely feel at home when you visit. With great food, friendly service, and refreshing drinks, it’s the perfect spot to reminisce the memories you made outdoors.
Pizza Corral: Holmen, WI
Just a “stone’s throw” from I-90, The Pizza Corral is the Holmen Area’s Favorite Restaurant for Pizza, Chicken & Family Dining! Known for their delicious homemade pizza, broasted chicken, and fabulous noon buffet and lunches, the Pizza Corral has been feeding the Holmen, La Crosse, and Onalaska area since 1983.
Rest Up & Retreat
Radisson Hotel: Downtown La Crosse, WI
The Radisson Hotel is located in Historic Downtown La Crosse. Found along Riverside Park on the Mississippi River, the views are hard to beat! Not to mention it’s walking distance from downtown shops, restaurants, and bars! They offer over 40 years of beautiful experiences and delightful customer service.
Stoney Creek: Onalaska, WI
Enjoy Stoney Creek Hotel, featuring wilderness and woodsy decor and vibes. It is located in the heart of vibrant, commercial Onalaska, bursting with shopping and restaurant options. Spending the night with family? The hotel offers a great pool area for playing with kids of all ages. P.S. There are bunk beds available in their rooms designed for families!
Best Western Plus: La Crescent, MN
Best Western Plus is located right across the Mississippi River in La Crescent, MN. It is within walking distance to the quaint downtown, shopping, services, and famous restaurants. With spacious, well-appointed guest rooms and suites, you’re sure to enjoy your stay!