La Crosse River State Trail | La Crosse

The La Crosse River State Trail is a 22-mile linear park traversing Wisconsin's Driftless Area. It follows the path of the former Chicago, Burlington, and Quincy Railroad.

Visual Characteristics

The trail is primarily paved asphalt, averaging 10 feet in width. It passes through agricultural fields, deciduous forests, and along the La Crosse River. The terrain is generally flat with a gradual incline towards the western end. Several wooden bridges cross tributaries and the main river.

Location & Access Logistics

The trail begins in the city of La Crosse, Wisconsin, at the intersection of Losey Boulevard and County Road FA. It extends west for 22 miles to the village of Sparta. Access points are located at multiple points along its length, including designated parking areas in La Crosse (near the start), Bangor, and Sparta. Public transport to the trailheads is limited; the nearest Amtrak station is in La Crosse. Parking is available at designated lots, with capacity varying by location.

Historical & Ecological Origin

The trail was established on the abandoned right-of-way of the Chicago, Burlington, and Quincy Railroad, which ceased operations in the late 1970s. The land was converted into a state trail in the 1990s. Ecologically, the area is part of the Driftless Area, characterized by its unglaciated topography, meaning it was not covered by glaciers during the last ice age, resulting in a landscape of valleys and bluffs.

Key Highlights & Activities

Activities include bicycling, in-line skating, cross-country skiing (winter), and walking. The trail is suitable for all skill levels due to its flat grade. Designated fishing access points are available along the La Crosse River. Wildlife observation is common, with sightings of deer, various bird species, and small mammals.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are available at major access points, particularly in La Crosse and Sparta. Some sections offer shade from tree cover. Cell phone signal is generally available along most of the trail, with 4G coverage being common. No food vendors are directly on the trail; visitors should plan to bring supplies or access them in nearby towns.

Best Time to Visit

The trail is accessible year-round. For bicycling and skating, late spring (May) through early fall (October) offers the most favorable weather. Summer months (June-August) can be warm. Autumn (September-October) provides fall foliage. Winter offers opportunities for cross-country skiing, with snow conditions varying.

Facts & Legends

A unique feature of the trail is the presence of old railroad mile markers that still exist along the route. The trail's western terminus in Sparta is known as the "Bicycling Capital of America," reflecting the town's strong connection to cycling infrastructure and events.

Nearby Landmarks

• Perkins Stadium (0.8km East, La Crosse)
• Grandad Bluff Park (2.5km Northeast, La Crosse)
• Hixon Forest Nature Center (3.1km Northeast, La Crosse)
• Riverside Park (3.5km East, La Crosse)
• University of Wisconsin-La Crosse (3.8km East, La Crosse)