Outdoor Recreation
Hiking and Trail Running
There is no better place to hike or trail run than in Vernon county. The topography is beautiful , the elevation is respectable and coupled with the rolling hills and bluffs this allows for both a leisurely stroll, or a most challenging adventure. You can enjoy your hiking adventure at Sidie Hollow County Park, Hubbard Hills/Rusty Ridge, Jersey Valley, Esofea County Park, Kickapoo Valley Reserve, Davidson Country Park and others.
Road Cycling
Viroqua offers world class road riding. The climbs and descents rival any mountain town and the natural beauty is abundant. One can easily enjoy a challenging century ride, a nice family ride on the Coon Prairie Trail or all rides in between.
Mountain Biking
One of Wisconsin’s best kept secrets. The landscape and natural beauty have made the trail network unique and one of the best in the region. With over miles 25 of single track the offerings are there for riders of all abilities. You can enjoy your off road adventure at Sidie Hollow County Park, Hubbard Hills/Rusty Ridge, Kickapoo Valley Reserve, Davidson Country Park and others.
Snowshoeing
This is a sport for all ages. The gently rolling groomed trails are abundant in the area, but the back country adventures are some of the best in the Midwest. Enjoy the developed trail network or create your own off trail adventure. You can enjoy your snowshoe adventure at Sidie Hollow County Park, Hubbard Hills/Rusty Ridge, Jersey Valley, Esofea County Park, Kickapoo Valley Reserve, Davidson Country Park and others.
Nordic Skiing
Many Nordic skiers come to enjoy our winter offering here in Vernon County. With miles and miles of groomed classic and skate trails this provides all abilities with opportunity. If you are wanting to blaze your own trail the back country offerings are abundant. Groomed trails include Viroqua Golf Course, Snowflake Ski club, Kickapoo Valley Reserve, Justin Trails and Wildcat Mountain. You can also enjoy your ski adventure at Sidie Hollow County Park, Hubbard Hills/Rusty Ridge, Jersey Valley, Esofea County Park, Davidson County Park, Coon Prairie Trail and others.
Canoeing
The naturally scenic Kickapoo River is just a short drive from Viroqua and has been a favorite of canoeists for many years. Translated locally as the “crooked river,” Kickapoo certainly lives up to its name, meandering its way along a 125-mile course that covers only 65 miles as the crow flies. The shallow, gently flowing river is tame enough for the beginner but challenging enough for the advanced paddler as well. It is considered one of the best Class 1 canoe rivers in the Midwest and is one of the most photogenic.
Horseback Riding
The rugged hills and steep valleys of Vernon County offer spectacular scenery and panoramic views that leave lifelong impressions. Wildcat Mountain State Park, the Kickapoo Valley Reserve and Duck Egg Recreation Area on the Bad Axe River offer numerous trails for the trail riding enthusiast. Several outfitters in the Kickapoo Valley provide services ranging from stock rentals to guided tours to boarding services. A day of riding the trails on horseback is a great way to spend your time exploring the magnificent scenery and wilderness areas that make Vernon County special.
Snowmobiling
Vernon County offers the avid snowmobiler access to snowmobile trails that wind through some of the most scenic forest lands in all of Wisconsin. In the winter, local snowmobile clubs groom many miles of scenic trails that connect with routes that spread across the state.
Disc Golf
This is one of the fastest growing sports in the country and Viroqua offers one of the region’s top courses, Veteran Hills Disc Golf Course located behind the Viroqua VFW. Whether you’re hitting the course solo or with a group of friends and family, you’re sure to enjoy the fun, challenges, and leisure that disc golf is known for. Along with Veteran Hills, make sure you check out other area courses in La Farge, Esofea, Cashton, and at Justin Trails.
Additional Resources
www.vernontrails.com – maps and event information
www.bluedogcycles.com – routes, rentals, and other outdoor recreation information
Outdoor Recreation
Fishing
Hunting
Museums & Memorials
Scenic Tours & Sights
Parks & Nature Centers