The La Crosse Region has it all from scenic highways and byways, to miles and miles of meandering waterways that are an absolute paradise for adventure seekers of every type.
Explore the La Crosse Region from the Highway
Captivating views are just a road trip away!
Grandad Bluff
Grandad Bluff has become not only a destination point for thousands, but also a famous symbol of the great Driftless Region. The 600-ft high bluff overlooks the city of La Crosse, the Mississippi River Valley, Wisconsin, Minnesota, and Iowa. Just a short 10-minute drive up a winding bluff road there are legendary sights of summer greenery. This signature sight is a bucketlist must when visiting the
La Crosse Region.
Apple Blossom Overlook
Swing through La Crescent, MN along Apple Blossom Scenic Drive for a short, but epic scenic overlook of the region. Wind your way up the charming bluff and ascend at the designated overlook for a view of a lifetime. Next, walk down a short path and into the woods that opens up to an expansive, rocky view of the entire state below. This route is famous for its breathtaking landscape bursting with thousands of apple blossoms in the spring!
Great River Road
Up for a road trip? Enjoy beautiful scenery, access to excellent hiking, fishing, and boating, rugged bluffs, and of course the picturesque Mississippi River along the Wisconsin Great River Road. U.S. Highway 35 covers 250 miles in the state of Wisconsin, from Prescott in the north to Kieler in the south. Over two-thirds of that distance traverses protected land, offering myriad birdwatching and other outdoor opportunities. And 33 charming river towns dot the landscape along the highway providing stopping points to find farmer’s markets, wineries & breweries, and more.
Great River Landing
The Great River Landing in Onalaska, WI plays host to the trailhead of the Great River State Trail, on which bicyclists can enjoy the 101 miles of interconnecting state trails and enjoy beautiful views of Lake Onalaska and the Black River. The Great River Landing is renowned for its natural beauty, Welcome Center, and friendly atmosphere. Another famous stop along the Great River Road is Sunny the Sunfish; a massive and brightly colored sunfish sculpture that reaches 15 feet high and 25 feet long. He, and the overlook of which he sits, are ideal family-photo opportunities.
Explore the La Crosse Region from the Water
Coast the calm waterways at sunset or turn it up a notch on majestic, renowned rivers.
The La Crosse Region offers adventure for both paddlers of all levels and boaters.
Mississippi River/
Riverside Park
The famous Riverside Park of La Crosse is the center of an active community. At the confluence of three rivers, Riverside Park is designed for active lifestyles and for those that want to relax and watch the river slowly pass by. The park is just blocks away from Historic Downtown La Crosse’s restaurants and shopping stops, the La Crosse Convention Center, and a multitude of lodging options. The park also offers a variety of docking options with public docks on the south end as well as a levee which big riverboats and Viking River Cruises use to port.
Lake Onalaska/
Onalaska Waterfront
Onalaska of the La Crosse Region, is memorable with its breathtaking scenery of rocky bluffs, enveloped by wooded trails perfect for vibrant hikes. The town offers unparalleled views overlooking Lake Onalaska, the Black River, and the majestic Mississippi River. Lake Onalaska is known for its sparkling water views seen next to Sunny the Sunfish and the Great River Landing, and is under the direction of the Upper Mississippi National Wildlife and Fish Refuge, which encourages excellent angling opportunities year-round.
Lake Neshonoc/Neshonoc Lakeside Campground Resort
One of Western Wisconsin’s most popular campground destinations is located in West Salem, WI and is just 14 miles from La Crosse. Neshonoc Lakeside Campground Resort offers canoe and kayak rentals for paddlers who wish to explore and relax on Lake Neshonoc’s beautiful, placid waters. Enjoy the local lake by kayak, canoe or motor boat rentals and or stay at one of their immaculate campground facilities.
Goose Island
Campground & Park
Located three miles south of La Crosse on the Mississippi River and boasting over 300 campsites, is Goose Island Campground & Park. This destination is the largest county campground in Wisconsin and offers amenities for campers and day-use visitors. Utilize kayak and canoe rentals, two nature trails, the public swimming beach, and more! Goose Island offers excellent fishing, wildlife sightings, and sunsets views.
Pettibone Park, La Crescent, MN
Pettibone Park was opened in 1901 and is favored by both regional residents and visitors alike. The park is popular for its beach, but is also home to park shelters, sand volleyball courts, trails, a disc golf area, fishing, and plenty of open space for making memories.
Looking for More Waterways?
The La Crosse Region is home to a confluence of rivers including the Mississippi, Black, La Crosse and Root Rivers. Canoe trails, launches, and outfitters in the area make it one of the best paddling destinations in the Midwest. Learn more and enjoy today!