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La
Crosse residents have the unique opportunity to explore nature when the weather gets warmer and
spring approaches western Wisconsin. The Myrick Hixon EcoPark provides a hub to
many bluffland and marsh trails. Grandad Bluff Park is another popular location
for visitors, offering a complete view of the city below, from La Crosse’s most
famous bluff, part of the Hixon family gift to the city.
The EcoPark is a collaborative
nature reserve supported by community organizations such as the earlier Hixon
Forest Nature Center, seven local Rotary Clubs and the City of La Crosse. In
2007, the Myrick Park Zoo was transformed into a community nature attraction
designed to be environmentally friendly and teach visitors about La Crosse’s wildlife
and natural landscape. The EcoPark has six suggested hiking paths, and bikes
can also be ridden on some trails.
Grandad Bluff Park was first made
accessible to the public in 1912. It is celebrated for its spectacular vista of
the city of La Crosse down below the bluffs, with an expansive view of Wisconsin,
Minnesota and Iowa from the top. Wisconsin
Trails readers voted it “the most scenic view in the state.” Grandad Bluff
is the largest bluff in the La Crosse area, with an elevation of 600 feet.
In April 2012, a renovation of Grandad Bluff
Park was completed. The park itself has a shelter, coin-operated binoculars and
picnic areas. The connected bluffs also have six trails suitable for hiking,
trail running, or biking. In the winter, specific trails like the Medary Quarry
or Welch Trail can be used for snowshoeing and skiing.
“I love hiking the bluffs,” noted
UW-L sophomore Dani Cox. “There are different trails you can take depending on
how adventurous you want to be. No matter which one you choose, the view is
always worth it!”
Some trails close temporarily, for safety and to prevent damage during wet Spring and rainy weather.
