The best hikes from bus stations around La Crosse

Currently, there are three distinct hiking routes in La Crosse that are easily accessible from local bus stations, offering a convenient way to explore the region's natural beauty without a car.

Yes, two of the bus-accessible routes are rated as easy. For example, the La Crosse Marsh loop from University of Wisconsin-La Crosse offers a gentle 5.7 km stroll through the marshlands, perfect for a relaxed outing. Another easy option is the La Crosse Marsh loop from La Crosse, which is slightly shorter at 5.2 km.

Absolutely. The Hixon View loop from University of Wisconsin-La Crosse is a moderate 6.4 km hike that takes you up into the bluffs, offering more challenging terrain and rewarding views.

La Crosse's unique location in the Driftless Region means you'll encounter diverse landscapes. Our bus-accessible routes offer a mix of serene marshlands, such as those found on the La Crosse Marsh loops, and wooded bluff trails with elevation gains, like the Hixon View loop, providing glimpses of the city and river valley.

Yes, all three bus-accessible routes in this guide are circular loops. This means you'll end your hike back near where you started, making for convenient public transport connections. Options include the Hixon View loop and two variations of the La Crosse Marsh loop.

While the specific routes in this guide don't directly lead to the most famous viewpoints, the Hixon View loop offers elevated perspectives of the surrounding area. For iconic views, the region is known for spots like Grandad Bluff Viewpoint and View from Tortoise Rock, which are often accessible via connecting trails within the broader Hixon Forest network.

The easy-rated marsh loops, such as the La Crosse Marsh loop from University of Wisconsin-La Crosse, are generally suitable for families due to their relatively flat terrain and shorter distances. They offer a great opportunity to explore nature together.

Many trails in the La Crosse area, including those in Hixon Forest and the marshlands, are dog-friendly, provided your dog is kept on a leash. Always check local signage at the trailhead for specific regulations regarding pets.

Spring and fall are particularly beautiful for hiking in La Crosse. Spring brings lush greenery and blooming wildflowers, while autumn transforms the bluffs into a vibrant display of fall foliage. Summer offers warm weather, though some trails can be more exposed. Winter hiking is also possible, especially on the marsh trails, but be prepared for snow and ice.

The marsh loops offer a chance to experience the unique wetland ecosystems of the Mississippi River Valley, home to diverse birdlife and aquatic plants. The Hixon View loop, on the other hand, takes you into the forested bluffs, showcasing the rugged, unglaciated terrain characteristic of the Driftless Region. You might also encounter interesting geological formations like Mushroom Rock in the broader area.

The easy marsh loops typically take between 1.5 to 2 hours to complete, covering distances of 5.2 to 5.7 km. The moderate Hixon View loop is longer and involves more elevation, usually taking around 2.5 to 3 hours for its 6.4 km distance.

The komoot community highly rates the hiking experiences in La Crosse, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Hikers often praise the accessibility, the diverse scenery ranging from marshlands to bluff views, and the well-maintained nature of the trails.

Near the marsh loops, you'll find Riverside Park, a popular spot along the Mississippi River. The trails also offer views of the river itself, including the View of the Mississippi River from the Bridge. The Hixon View loop is part of the extensive Hixon Forest, which connects to various natural points of interest.