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 are legendary sights bursting of summer greenery or vibrant fall colors. Voted as “the most scenic view in the state” by Wisconsin Trails readers, this signature sight is a bucketlist must when visiting the La Crosse Region.
More specifically, Grandad Bluff is a city park located by following Main Street East which becomes Bliss Road as you ascend the bluff. At the top, the entrance is found by turning right on Grandad Bluff Road. The park features a shelter house, coin-operated binoculars, picnic areas and is the site of the annual Skyrocker`s New Year`s Eve Fireworks Show.
Grandad Bluff offers roughly 5-miles of shared-use trails with access to neighborhoods on 29th St. and Ebner Coulee Rd. Offering family-friendly limestone trails, the top of Grandad’s is perfect for the whole family. Upper Hixon is another trail system just a short drive from Grandad Bluff. These epic trails also provide bluffside vistas of the La Crosse Region.
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The Gateway Trail System:
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Cover Photo Credit: Scott Schaub Photography
NOTE TO ALL MOTOR COACH COMPANIES: There is a weight limit on Bliss Road (the main road that takes you up to the bluff). No vehicles 5 tons or more are allowed. State HWY 33 and County Road F is NOW OPEN. The physical address of the bluff is 3020 Grandad Bluff Road, La Crosse, WI 54601. Thank you for helping us preserve this road!