Our Blog and Local Guides
Local guides and stories from the Driftless Region of Wisconsin
The Driftless Region rewards people who slow down and look around. We have had decades to do exactly that. These posts cover the places we return to, the seasonal things worth planning a trip around, and life here on 200 acres in Sparta.
We still remember the first time we sent guests into Amish Country with nothing but a hand-drawn map and a promise: "Trust us, just go." They came back hours later with a rocking chair strapped to their roof. They talked about buggy rides and warm br… Read more
Land conservation has shaped life at Justin Trails for decades. You can find it in the trails, woods, prairies, and quiet places here. Most guests notice the wide-open land first: the hills, the Elegant Barn, the wildlife, and the Driftless Region ar… Read more
The Elroy-Sparta Trail sits minutes from our farm at Justin Trails Resort, and stretches across Wisconsin's Driftless Region. Our guests arrive with bikes and curiosity, ready to explore one of the Midwest's most iconic biking routes . Morning light … Read more
Winter asks a lot from us. Short days make a wellness retreat feel less like a luxury and more like a necessity. You feel it in your shoulders and in your sleep. It also appears in the way your mind never quite settles. That’s usually when you find u… Read more
At real Wisconsin supper clubs, dinner becomes more than a meal. It's comfort, conversation, and tradition all in one. You'll taste history and perhaps fall even deeper in love. We've shared many evenings at these cozy spots, savoring every bite. Din… Read more
Updated for 2025 . The holiday events in Sparta ignite our entire community with excitement. The air feels brighter, and the streets sparkle. Traditions come alive, making the season unforgettable. We love watching guests enjoy the festive gatherings… Read more
Wildcat Mountain State Park pulls you in with its stunning views, then surprises you with more. Love peaceful trails, golden hills, and quiet night skies? This place checks all the boxes. You'll find this park in Wisconsin's Driftless Area. Bluffs, f… Read more
Restaurants in Sparta surprise many visitors, but in a good way. We're lucky to live where comfort and flavor share the same plate. We've tried nearly everything this town offers. Some spots win us over with charm. Others win us with one unforgettabl… Read more
Are you craving a peaceful escape or a new adventure this season? You’ll find both — and some of the area’s best spring events — at Justin Trails Resort in beautiful Sparta, Wisconsin. Nestled in the hills of the Driftless Region, our resort is where… Read more
Motorcycle rides just hit differently in Sparta. Between the winding country roads, scenic overlooks, and peaceful stretches through the Driftless hills, it's the kind of place that delivers serious motorcycle zen without even trying. There's a calm … Read more