The best walks and hikes in La Crosse County

Yes, many trails in the area are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point without retracing your steps. These are common in places like Hixon Forest and the bluff systems. For a moderately challenging loop with great views, consider the Rim of the City Viewpoint loop from University of Wisconsin-La Crosse, which offers a rewarding climb through the woods.

For a gentle and accessible walk, the Riverside Park loop — La Crosse is an excellent choice. It's a flat, paved path along the Mississippi River, making it suitable for strollers and little legs. The route offers lovely views of the water and the city's bridges.

Many trails in La Crosse County are dog-friendly, especially in multi-use areas like Hixon Forest. However, regulations can vary, and dogs are generally required to be on a leash. It's always best to check the specific rules for the park or trail you plan to visit before you go.

The region is famous for its bluff-top views. Grandad Bluff Park is a popular, easily accessible overlook. For a view earned through a bit more hiking, the Greens Coulee Overlook via Loggers loop provides panoramic vistas of the surrounding coulees and landscape.

La Crosse County's landscape is primarily defined by its river valleys and tall bluffs rather than waterfalls. While you won't find significant waterfalls along the main hiking trails, many routes offer beautiful scenery along the Mississippi, Black, and La Crosse Rivers.

Hixon Forest offers an extensive network of trails for all skill levels. You can find challenging ascents with significant elevation gain or more moderate paths through the woods. The Hixon View loop from University of Wisconsin-La Crosse is a great example of a longer, more strenuous hike that showcases the forest's rugged beauty.

Yes, hiking is a year-round activity here. Many trails remain accessible for winter hiking and snowshoeing, offering a different perspective of the landscape. Trails in Hixon Forest are popular winter destinations. Always wear appropriate footwear with good traction, as trails can be icy or snow-covered.

Absolutely. The varied terrain of the Driftless Region makes it a great place for trail running. Hixon Forest is a local favorite, with a mix of technical singletrack, steep climbs, and rolling hills. The Vista Prairie loop from Losey East offers a nearly 4-mile run with considerable elevation to challenge you.

The trails cater to a range of abilities. You'll find everything from flat, paved river walks to challenging bluff climbs with over 500 feet of elevation gain. About half the routes are rated as easy, while the other half are moderate. There are no extreme or technically difficult alpine routes.

For any hike, bring water and wear sturdy shoes. The weather can change, so layers are a good idea. On the bluff trails, trekking poles can be helpful for the ascents and descents.

In warmer months, bug spray is essential, especially in wooded areas and near the marsh. And don't forget your phone or camera to capture the incredible views from the overlooks.

Many popular hikes begin at well-established trailheads. For Hixon Forest, the Lower Hixon Trailhead and Upper Hixon Forest parking areas are key access points. Grandad Bluff Park also has its own parking and trail access. For a different type of hike, you can start from the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse campus to access several bluff trails, such as the George's Point – Hixon View loop.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.9 out of 5 stars. Hikers often praise the stunning panoramic views from the bluffs, the well-maintained trail systems in places like Hixon Forest, and the variety of hikes available, from peaceful river walks to challenging climbs.