Along the River in Wisconsin
The Great River Road in Wisconsin:
The Wisconsin Great River Road begins on highway 35 in Prescott, the Northern Getaway. The towns along the road are nestled along the Mississippi River banks, much like pearls in a necklace. Each town has a unique history and ambience. As the road winds its way between soaring bluffs and the river, numerous viewing areas provide expansive views of the sky, river and bluffs, including views of Lake Pepin. Just around each river bend, unique people and places await. A side trip on one of the Rustic Roads provides an opportunity to enjoy the natural peace and beauty of the area. Relax. Slow down. Look around. This is a place for rest and renewal.
----------------------------------------------------------------------- Length: 250 miles
State Scenic Byway: Yes
National Scenic Byway: Yes
National Scenic Byways
What Mississippi River experiences await along Wisconsin's Great River Road:
Along Wisconsin's Great River Road, visitors can experience the joys of nature at such sites as the Mercord Mill Park, located at the concluence of the Mississippi and St. Croix National Scenic River. Or visit Maiden Rock Bluff Natural Area which includes a nesting site for Peregrine Falcons. Another stop along the way is in Alma, WI at Buena Vista Park where visitors can see panoramic views of the Mississippi River Valley and the city of Alma.
To add to your river experience, enjoy the views along the walking trails in Alma on the Buena Vista Walking Trail or Mossy Hollow Walking Trail.
Of course a trip to Wisconsin isn't complete without cheese! Along the river, stop at the Nelson Cheese Factory, with five generations of cheese-making heritage - since the 1850's!
Attractions and Events Along the River in Wisconsin
Wisconsin's River Cities
Wisconsin's Great River Road Interpretive Centers & Museums
State Parks along Wisconsin's Great River Road:
- Merrick State Park - Fountain City
- Perrot State Park - Trempealeau
- Eau Galle Lake Recreation Area - Spring Valley
- Nugget Lake Park - Plum City
- Nelson Dewey State Park - Cassville
- Wyalusing State Park - Bagley
Locks & Dams on the Mississippi River
- Lock & Dam # 4 - Alma
- Lock & Dam # 5a - Fountain City
- Lock & Dam # 6 - Trempealeau
- Lock & Dam # 8 - Genoa
- Lock & Dam # 9 - Lynxville
Add these ideas to your byway journey:
- Historic Prescott Bridge Gear House - Prescott
- Great River Road Theatre - River Falls
- Diamond Bluff - Ellsworth
- Maiden Rock Riverside Park - Maiden Rock
- Stockholm Institute Museum - Stockholm
- Laura Ingalls Wilder Wayside and Cabin (replica) - Pepin
- Alma Historical Museum - Alma
- Estate of first governor of Wisconsin, Stonefield Village & State Ag Museum - Stonefield
- St. John's Mine (circa 1925) - Potosi
Other Key Links:
Wisconsin Great River Road Web Site
Wisconsin Department of TransportationTravel Info
Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources
Wisconsin Historical Society Wisconsin Department of Tourism
Mississippi River Trail (Biking)
Audubon Society - Wisconsin Chapter (Birding)
Click here for Travel Information Beyond the River in Wisconsin
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See more Along the River Travel information in these Mississippi River states:
Minnesota
Iowa
Illinois
Missouri
Kentucky
Tennessee
Arkansas
Mississippi
Louisiana
