The best MTB trails in La Crosse County

La Crosse County is situated in Wisconsin's unique Driftless Region, which means you'll encounter a rugged landscape of bluffs, steep-sided valleys (coulees), and riverine environments. This varied topography provides a dynamic mountain biking experience with significant elevation changes, challenging climbs, and exciting descents through extensive forests.

Yes, there are options for various skill levels. While many trails feature challenging climbs and descents, you can find routes suitable for beginners. For example, there is one easy-rated trail among the seven available, and four are rated moderate, offering a good progression for those new to mountain biking or looking for a less strenuous ride.

Many trails in La Crosse County leverage the region's prominent bluffs to offer stunning views. The Lookout Prairie – Hixon View loop from University of Wisconsin-La Crosse, for instance, navigates through bluffs and provides panoramic views of the surrounding valleys. Additionally, the region is home to iconic viewpoints like Grandad Bluff Viewpoint and View from Tortoise Rock, which are often accessible from or near mountain biking areas.

Yes, La Crosse County offers several longer mountain bike routes. The Upper Hixon Forest – Hixon View loop from La Crosse is a substantial 21.2 miles (34.1 km) trail, and the Hixon View – Lookout Prairie loop from University of Wisconsin-La Crosse covers 16.7 miles (26.9 km), providing ample distance for an extended ride.

Beyond the trails themselves, La Crosse County boasts several natural and man-made attractions. You can explore natural monuments like Mushroom Rock or visit the A Triple Confluence of Rivers where the Mississippi, Black, and La Crosse Rivers meet. For scenic views, don't miss the Grandad Bluff Viewpoint. Other points of interest include Riverside Park and The McGilvray “Seven Bridges Road”.

Yes, many of the mountain bike routes in La Crosse County are designed as loops, offering a continuous ride without needing to retrace your path. Examples include the Hixon View – Upper Hixon Forest loop from University of Wisconsin-La Crosse and the Grandad Bluff Road loop from University of Wisconsin-La Crosse.

The Driftless Region's landscape is beautiful year-round, but spring, summer, and fall generally offer the best conditions for mountain biking. The fall foliage provides a particularly scenic backdrop. While winter mountain biking is possible, be prepared for colder temperatures and potential snow or ice on trails, which can alter difficulty and require specific gear.

Specific permit requirements can vary by trail system and land manager. For areas like Hixon Forest, which is a popular mountain biking spot, it's advisable to check with local authorities or the city of La Crosse Parks and Recreation Department for any required trail passes or permits before you ride. The Gateway Trails near Grandad Bluff Park may also have specific regulations.

Mountain bikers frequently praise the unique and challenging terrain offered by the Driftless Region. The mix of downhill, climbing, flow, technical, and jump trails, particularly in areas like Hixon Forest, provides a diverse and engaging experience. Riders also appreciate the stunning panoramic views from the bluffs, such as Grandad Bluff, which add a scenic reward to their rides.

While many trails offer challenging terrain, the region does have options that can be more suitable for families. Look for trails rated as 'easy' or 'moderate' that have less extreme elevation changes and technical features. The extensive network of state bicycle trails, accessible from places like the Great River Landing in Onalaska, also offers scenic, rail-bed routes that are generally flatter and more suitable for family rides, though these may be more geared towards casual cycling than technical mountain biking.

Many popular trailheads in La Crosse County offer dedicated parking. For example, Hixon Forest has a trailhead with amenities, including parking. The Gateway Trails near Grandad Bluff Park also provide access points with parking. For state trails, trailheads like the Great River Landing in Onalaska typically have parking facilities. Always check specific trail information for designated parking areas.