Come to Life in the La Crosse Region
La Crosse Region comes alive during the spring and summer months, bursting with adventure and activities for all! When you’re ready, explore the Region that offers an abundance of great outdoor resources and opportunities, amazing food, arts and culture, and stunning views for you and your entourage to enjoy.
Stunning Spring Sights
Apple Blossom Scenic Drive
Early to Mid-May is the peak season to experience the natural beauty of the Apple Blossom Scenic Drive. The route famous for its breathtaking, rolling landscape that bursts with thousands of sweet-smelling apple blossoms. Travel along the bluff-top roads that overlook the Mississippi River and La Crosse, and descend into the Pine Creek Valley for your return trip back to La Crescent, Minnesota.
“The nearby orchards remind us of our heritage, especially in the spring with the apple blossoms and their fragrance or in the fall with the multitude of colors,” states the La Crescent Chamber of Commerce. The history is rich in La Crescent as their first orchard was planted in the 1850s. The small community is claimed as the Apple Capital of Minnesota, but the orchards span far into the bluffs along the Minnesota Scenic Byway. LEARN MORE
Spring & Summer Adventure
ADVENTURE BY BIKE OR FOOT
With a Region as beautiful as this, it is easy to want to submerge yourself in nature. A perfect way to burn off some energy is with a quick stroll on one of the many great trails in the area. The Great River State Trail, La Crosse River Trail, and Three Rivers Trail are great options for easy walking or biking with beautiful scenery along each route. If you’re looking for something challenging, you can find more difficult terrain, climbs, features, and scenic lookouts at the Hixon Forest Trails and La Crosse Blufflands Trails.
If road cycling is more your style, you’re sure to enjoy numerous routes that highlight the area, which offers some of the best bicycling in the Midwest. The Region provides both easy, in-town rides and moderate or hard routes to get the blood flowing through some of the area’s biggest hills and bluffs! If you’re up to the task, ride the Apple Blossom Scenic Route for views well worth the bluff-side grind.
WATERWAY EXPEDITIONS
Want to skip the pavement? The summer cooldown and adventure are endless when you hit the many famous waterways of the La Crosse Region. Rent a kayak or canoe to enjoy the crisp waters of Lake Onalaska or the river lands. Launch your boat at one of the many Region’s landings and escape down the famous Mississippi River. Did you know the Mississippi River sandbar islands are free to camp on? Bring your crew and make some Driftless Region memories along the banks.
In addition, summertime fishing in the La Crosse Region can be one of the most exciting fishing experiences anglers have all year, no matter the species you seek. Fish are much more predictable and their metabolism is increased under the warm water conditions causing them to feed more. Heart pounding topwater for big northern pike and bass in backwaters, walleye near fly fishing the pristine trout streams, and filling the livewell with slab crappies and bluegills are all phenomenal options during the summer months in the Region.
RENOWNED PATIO DINING + LOCAL CRAFT BEVERAGES
The La Crosse Region proudly claims the Coulee Region Craft Beverage Trail. Featuring 14 of the area’s best breweries, wineries, and distilleries, it is the craft beverage map to a tasteful experience. Enjoy tastings and tours along the Mississippi River, atop towering bluffs, within stunning vineyards and in historic downtowns!
Make sure to enjoy the La Crosse Region’s famous culinary destinations! With over 100 culinary eateries, you’ll dine in a setting like no other among the bluffs on outdoor patios, in retro martini bars, renovated historic buildings or classic pubs. The Region’s restaurants continue to re-open, and their statuses and services are subject to change. In order to enjoy the full La Crosse Region experience, visit our listings for the latest Region updates.
No matter your sport, hobby or interests, this unique area offers something for everyone. The beautiful waterways nestled between the striking bluffs create an adventurous setting perfect for making summer memories. When you’re ready, venture to the La Crosse Region, where the freedom to explore awaits!