5 Things to do in the Trempealeau National Wildlife refuge near Sparta Wisconsin. If you’ve never had the opportunity to visit the Trempealeau National Wildlife Refuge near Sparta Wisconsin, this fall may be the perfect opportunity. The refuse is open year-round and offers visitors a wonderful chance to see some of Wisconsin’s best plant and wildlife. Fall is a beautiful season to spend some time in the outdoors in Wisconsin, whether that means hiking, biking, or quietly enjoying an afternoon of birdwatching.
There are a number of great places to explore near Sparta Wisconsin, including our very own Justin Trails Resort. But when you feel like venturing out a little further, you can’t go wrong with the extraordinary Trempealeau National Wildlife Refuge. Book your room at our Wisconsin Bed and Breakfast today, and enjoy a few colorful days of respite in the heart of the Driftless Area this fall.
5 Things to do in the Trempealeau National Wildlife Refuge
The Trempealeau National Wildlife Refuge is located on the eastern edge of the Mississippi River. There are a number of hikes through the 6,400-acre refuge, and plenty of things to see to keep you busy for a day. The refuge is actually an isolated backwater section of the Mississippi River, cut off by a series of dams. The calm water and habitat that results are perfect for resting and feeding areas for waterfowl and other birds.
Here are 5 of our favorite things to do in Trempealeau National Wildlife Refuge:
- Get acquainted with the refuge and take the 4.5-mile Prairie’s Edge Tour Loop scenic drive. The drive will take you through three of the major areas of the refuge, including sand prairie, blackwater marsh, and hardwood forest.
- Explore the Trempealeau National Wildlife Refuge by bike. All of the trails are accessible via bike, which includes portions of the Great River State Trail (GRST). The GRST Trail is a great connector for those coming from Perrot State Park on a leisurely bike ride.
- Enjoy the remaining days of the fall bird migration. Over 263 bird species have been recorded at the refuge, including species like yellow-rumped warblers, orchard orioles, white pelicans, blue-winged teal, and ring-necked ducks. In addition to an incredible variety of birds, the refuge is also home to white-tailed deer, wild turkey, fox, otter, bald eagles, and beaver.
- Take a night hike, and learn all about the owls and other nocturnal animals that call this refuge home.
- When the snow starts to fall this winter, strap on a pair of snowshoes or cross-country skis, and hit the trails around Trempealeau National Wildlife Refuge. There are four miles of backcountry trails.
- Great food at https://www.trempealeauhotel.com/overlooking the Mississippi River. Known for their walnut burgers.
Lodging Near Sparta Wisconsin
At the end of the day, sink into the luxurious accommodations at the Justin Trails Resort, the best lodging near Sparta Wisconsin. Whether you want to stay in one of our charming farmhouse suites, or Scandinavian log cabins, or our quaint garden cottages, you’ll enjoy the quiet, peaceful nature of our eco-friendly resort. We’re located in the heart of Wisconsin’s Driftless area, surrounded by boundless natural beauty and a variety of things to do, see and enjoy no matter the season.
Our 200-acre property, part of which is a working organic farm, comes with private walking trails, 2 disc-golf courses, and a beautiful outdoor fire pit; the perfect place to relax and sit out under the stars on a brisk fall evening. Nearby, you’ll find great places like the Trempealeau National Wildlife Refuge, Wildcat Mountain State Park, the Elroy-Sparta Trail, and the La Crosse and Kickapoo Rivers. Our resort is truly a getaway like no other, and one you simply must see for yourself to believe. Book your room at our Wisconsin Resort and Bed and Breakfast today.