Description - La Crosse River State Trail is a delightful 24.5-mile ride along the La Crosse River between Sparta and La Crosse paralleling an active rail line. The trail is a middle link between the Elroy-Sparta Trail and the Great River Trail, which is part of the 101-mile Wisconsin State Trail System that incorporates five trails: The 400 State Trail, Elroy-Sparta State Trail, LaCrosse River State Trail, and Great River State Trail. The Omaha Trail is a connecting trail running north from Elroy to Camp Douglas along a 13 mile paved surface.
Attractions
- La Crosse River State Trail is a crushed limestone trail between Sparta and Medary. Several interesting small towns are encountered. Bangor offers a spur trail along an unmarked path through prairie growth. West Salem is home to the Palmer-Gullickson Octagon home and several other historic structures. North of town is one of the best lakes in Southern Wisconsin, Neshonoc Lake. Two hand-carry boat launches and one trailerable launch is found along the southern shoreline. Camping is offered at Neshonoc Lakeside Campground, call 608-786-1792 for details. In winter this trail and connecting trails are used by snowmobiles. There is no charge for snowmobiling or hiking during snow cover. Trail passes required for bikers 16 years of age and older.
Recreation - Trail users include hikers, bicyclists, and snowmobilers. Climate - Southwest Wisconsin has four distinct seasons with warm summers and long winters. January's average temperature is above 16 degrees F (-9 degrees C). Average July temperature is 85 degrees F (29 degrees C). During summer, temperatures can climb to above 90 degrees F (32 degrees C). The area's average yearly precipitation ranges from 32-34". Annual snowfalls in the Southwest Region can range from 20 - 40". Dressing in layers is a good way to remain comfortable in Wisconsin. Location -
La Crosse River State Trail runs between Sparta and La Crosse.
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