Bicentennial Trail

 This post about the Bicentennial Trail allows us to give you a taste of where we are from and to teach you what a ‘bluff’ is. We have met many people here out West who have never heard of a bluff. A bluff is a geographical feature defined as a broad, steep, and high cliff or bank. Bluffs are typically found overlooking a body of water, such as a river, sea, or coastal area, often formed by erosion.  The lush, green bluffs of La Crosse, Wisconsin are the highlight of, and the setting for, this hike.

The trail goes through Hixon Forest, and it is truly a forest. Oaks, birch, Ash trees, ferns, ivy, the vegetation is lush.  Along with the thick vegetation, you will not likely escape the bugs, be sure to bring some mosquito repellent. After enjoying the walk through the woods, you will ascend to the eventual look out.

This lookout is one of the best in La Crosse. You will look out over the mighty Mississippi River, the marshlands, over the city itself, and even see the iconic blue bridges spanning the river.

Difficulty: Mild to moderate.

Trail Stats: 3.4 miles, loop, 554 feet elevation gain.

Trail Finding: Clear.

Conditions: Packed dirt.

Would I Repeat This: Yep!

Parking: Available.

Timing: There can be seasonal closure for the road leading to the trailhead.

Downloaded Map: Not necessary, but it is always nice to know ‘how much longer’.

Fees: None

Trails: Miller Bluff via Bicentennial Trail is in the vicinity. Check out the marshland walking trails nearby at Myrick Park.