La Crosse, Wisconsin, located along the banks of the Mississippi River, is a city filled with fun outdoor activities throughout the year. Enjoy the sights of La Crosse from a riverboat cruise on the mighty Mississippi or in nature on a hiking trail. The area is a paradise for those who love recreation. Discover some outdoor activities available in the vicinity of La Crosse.
Fun at the River
The Upper Mississippi has an abundance of small islands, channels, and pools ideal for fishing and kayaking. If you haven’t considered them, the La Crosse River and the Black River offer further spots to explore. These rivers are home to many fish species, such as walleye, northern pike, shovelhead sturgeon, perch, and sunfish. Contact the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources for information on licensing and fishing regulations. Although not on the river, ice fishing in winter is popular at Lake Onalaska and Lake Neshonoc.
Kayaking is available for all levels. Take your family on a comfortable and relaxing canoe ride through the wetland courses. Or you may prefer the more strenuous kayaking along the Mississippi, Black, or La Crosse rivers. You’ll also appreciate the many canoe trails and launches in the area. Some of the popular kayaking trails include Long Lake Trail, Lake Onalaska Canoe Trail, and Brown’s Marsh Canoe Area (Lytle’s Landing).
Hiking Around La Crosse
The superb scenery around La Crosse is
impressive, from forests and mountains to marshes and prairies. Don’t overlook
the rivers, lakes, and waterways either. Well-maintained hiking
trails in the area offer a stroll or an adrenaline-pumping, steep climb. The
hiking and biking trails winding through the woods in Hixon Forest give access
to Grandad Bluff Park, known for its views across La Crosse and the river
valley. La Crosse River Marsh offers running, walking, and biking paved and
gravel trails. These trails connect from Riverside Park to the Great River
State Trail, Myrick Park, and Hixon Forest.
Other areas to explore include the Mississippi Valley Conservancy and Green
Coulee. The Outdoor Recreation Alliance promotes the development of sustainable
environmental trails in the region. These trails are for everyone to use.
Hiking, biking, birding, trail running, skiing, and snowshoeing are popular on
them.
Winter Activities
As winter approaches, it’s no reason to hibernate. The La Crosse region features winter activities for everyone. Mount La Crosse, a popular ski hill in the area, has various runs for skiers and snowboarders. In addition, the Mileway is the longest run in Wisconsin. Cross country skiers may enjoy trails in Black River State Park, Perrot State Park, Goose Island Park, and the Great River Trail. Other winter activities include snowmobiling, sledding, and ice skating.
The three mighty rivers and surrounding scenic bluffs make La Crosse County perfect for outdoor recreation. From the activities that’ we’ve mentioned above in this post to cruising the Mississippi River or playing a golf game, you’ll find something for everyone in the La Crosse area. It’s fun and easy to get active in La Crosse.
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