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Hiking trails & Routes
United States
Wisconsin
La Crosse County
La Crosse

Snakeroot, Blazingstar and Quarry Loop Trail

Easy

3.3

(2)

35

hikers

Snakeroot, Blazingstar and Quarry Loop Trail

01:07

4.21km

40m

Hiking

The Snakeroot, Blazingstar and Quarry Loop Trail offers a delightful journey through the La Crosse Blufflands, showcasing varied scenery from scrub forest to dense woods. You'll traverse areas that hint at ancient dunes and pass by the notable Tortoise Rock viewpoint, providing diverse vistas. Keep an eye out for the purple blazing star plants, especially vibrant in late summer and fall, adding a splash of color to the landscape.

This easy 2.6-mile (4.2 km) loop is a quick adventure, taking about 1 hour and 6 minutes to complete with a gentle 142 feet (43 metres) of elevation gain. It's a great option for a casual outing or for those new to hiking, offering an accessible experience without requiring extensive planning. While generally straightforward, some sections might be slippery if wet, so appropriate footwear is always a good idea.

The trail's name itself hints at its ecological richness, with "Blazingstar" referring to areas with specific flora and "Snakeroot" suggesting diverse forest plant life. The "Quarry" element points to potential historical interest, with abandoned quarry sites often transforming into tranquil ponds and unique habitats. This combination makes the Snakeroot, Blazingstar and Quarry Loop Trail a notable example of the region's natural and historical landscape.

Last updated: June 9, 2026

Waypoints

A

Start point

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2.42 km

Viewpoint

Viewpoint

2

3.54 km

View from Tortoise Rock

Highlight • Viewpoint

From just the right angle, this boulder has the silhouette of a tortoise. Standing next to this rock, you also get a great view of the mighty Mississippi River valley.

Tip by

B

4.21 km

End point

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Way Types & Surfaces

Way Types

4.20 km

< 100 m

Surfaces

4.17 km

< 100 m

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Elevation

Elevation

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Weather

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Wednesday 8 July

30°C

20°C

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the overall difficulty and terrain like on this route?

This route is rated as easy, making it suitable for most hikers. The terrain is generally manageable, incorporating sections of trails like Quarry, Blazingstar, and Snakeroot. While specific conditions can vary, expect a mix of surfaces typical for an easy hike, potentially including packed dirt and some rocky areas.

Where can I park to access the trailhead?

Specific parking information for the Snakeroot, Blazingstar and Quarry Loop Trail within the La Crosse Blufflands-Mathy Property is not detailed in the provided data. However, trailheads within nature preserves typically have designated parking areas. We recommend checking the official La Crosse Blufflands-Mathy Property website or local signage upon arrival for the most accurate parking instructions.

Are dogs allowed on the trail?

The provided information does not specify the dog policy for this particular trail. Generally, many nature preserves and parks allow dogs on leash. It's best to check the official regulations for the La Crosse Blufflands-Mathy Property before bringing your canine companion.

Do I need a permit or pay an entrance fee to hike here?

Information regarding permits or entrance fees for the La Crosse Blufflands-Mathy Property is not available in the provided data. Many state nature preserves and regional parks do not require permits for day hiking, but some may have small entrance fees or require specific passes. We advise checking the official La Crosse Blufflands-Mathy Property website for current regulations.

What is the best time of year to visit the Snakeroot, Blazingstar and Quarry Loop Trail?

The best time to visit often depends on what you want to experience. Trails incorporating 'Blazingstar' are often known for wildflowers, with summer and fall being prime viewing seasons. For general hiking comfort, spring and fall usually offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery. Always check local weather conditions before your visit.

What can I see along the route?

Along the route, you'll encounter diverse natural features. A notable highlight is the View from Tortoise Rock, which offers a scenic vista. Given the names of the trails incorporated, you might experience areas reminiscent of old woods, prairie landscapes, or former quarry sites, each offering unique scenery.

Does this route intersect with other trails?

Yes, this route is a combination of several named trails. It utilizes significant portions of the Quarry (80%), Blazingstar (65%), THE RIM (40%), Snakeroot (28%), and Foxglove (24%) trails, offering a varied hiking experience through the La Crosse Blufflands-Mathy Property.

Is the Snakeroot, Blazingstar and Quarry Loop Trail suitable for families with children?

Given its 'easy' difficulty rating and a distance of approximately 4.2 km, this trail is generally suitable for families with children. However, some sections, particularly those named 'Snakeroot' in other regions, can be mucky or have slippery, rocky surfaces. Always assess your family's comfort level and wear appropriate footwear.

What kind of wildlife or plants might I encounter?

While specific wildlife sightings are never guaranteed, trails named 'Snakeroot' often feature diverse plant life, including specific species like black cohosh and white snakeroot, and can pass through old woods. 'Blazingstar' trails are typically known for tallgrass prairies and wildflowers. Keep an eye out for local flora and fauna typical of the La Crosse Blufflands region.

What should I wear and bring for this hike?

For an easy hike of this length, comfortable hiking shoes or sturdy sneakers are recommended. Dress in layers suitable for the weather, and consider bringing water, snacks, and sun protection. If hiking after rain, be prepared for potentially mucky or slippery sections, especially on parts of the trail that might resemble the 'Snakeroot' descriptions from other areas.

Are there any specific regulations or unique features of the La Crosse Blufflands-Mathy Property I should know about?

The La Crosse Blufflands-Mathy Property is a natural area, so general rules like staying on marked trails, packing out what you pack in, and respecting wildlife are important. While specific regulations are not detailed, interpretive trails often highlight unique ecological features. Always check the property's official website for any specific rules or alerts before your visit.

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