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Exploring the Endless Outdoor Adventures at Driftless Rivers National Park

  • Nov 6, 2025
  • 3 min read

The Driftless Rivers National Park offers a unique outdoor experience that stands apart from other natural destinations. Nestled among the Mississippi, Wisconsin, and Kickapoo Rivers, this park features scenic limestone bluffs, pristine trout streams, and expansive backwaters. These landscapes create an unmatched playground for outdoor enthusiasts who enjoy activities like hiking, kayaking, fishing, and more.


Eye-level view of a kayak gliding along a calm river surrounded by limestone bluffs
Kayaking on the Driftless Rivers with limestone bluffs in the background

Hiking and Cycling Through Scenic Limestone Bluffs


The park’s limestone bluffs provide some of the most breathtaking hiking trails in the region. Trails vary from easy walks to challenging climbs, offering options for all skill levels. Hikers can explore ancient effigy mounds and enjoy panoramic views of the rivers below. Cyclists will find well-maintained paths that wind through forests and open meadows, perfect for mountain biking or leisurely rides.


Some popular trails include:


  • Kickapoo Valley Trail: A 30-mile trail ideal for cycling and hiking, passing through charming small towns and natural scenery.


  • Effigy Mounds Trail: Offers a chance to see thousand-year-old Native American mounds while enjoying peaceful forest surroundings.


Water Adventures on Mighty Rivers and Pristine Streams


The Mississippi, Wisconsin, and Kickapoo Rivers offer a variety of water-based activities. Kayaking and canoeing are popular ways to explore the calm backwaters and faster river currents. For those interested in history, paddlewheel boat tours on the Mississippi provide a glimpse into the era of Mark Twain, combining sightseeing with a touch of nostalgia.


Fishing enthusiasts can enjoy diverse experiences, from casting lines in the country’s largest river to fishing in crystal-clear trout streams. The park is home to some of the best trout fishing in the Midwest, with waters stocked and naturally sustaining healthy fish populations.


Winter Sports and Unique Outdoor Experiences


When winter arrives, the park transforms into a snowy playground. Cross-country skiing and snowshoeing trails cover the landscape, allowing visitors to explore the quiet beauty of snow-covered bluffs and forests. These activities offer a peaceful way to connect with nature during the colder months.


For those interested in spelunking, the park’s ancient caverns provide fascinating underground exploration opportunities. Visitors can discover unique rock formations and learn about the geological history of the region.


High angle view of snow-covered trails winding through a forest in winter
Cross-country skiing trails in Driftless Rivers National Park during winter

Wildlife Watching and Seasonal Highlights


Driftless Rivers National Park lies along one of the nation’s greatest migratory flyways. Bird watchers can spot a wide variety of species throughout the year, including eagles, herons, and migratory songbirds. The park’s diverse habitats support a rich ecosystem, making it a prime location for wildlife observation.


Fall brings vibrant color tours as the forests change hues, creating stunning landscapes perfect for photography and leisurely drives. Horseback and carriage rides offer a unique way to experience the park’s beauty during this season.


Planning Your Visit


To make the most of your visit, consider these tips:


  • Camping: The park offers several campgrounds with amenities ranging from primitive sites to full hookups.


  • Guided Tours: Join boat tours or guided hikes to learn more about the park’s natural and cultural history.


  • Gear Rentals: Local outfitters provide rentals for kayaks, bikes, and winter sports equipment.


  • Safety: Always check weather conditions and trail maps before heading out. Carry essentials like water, snacks, and a first aid kit.


Close-up view of a fishing rod casting into a clear trout stream surrounded by green foliage
Fishing in a clear trout stream at Driftless Rivers National Park

 
 
 

Comments

Art, History, Geography, and Culture come together in this new Wisconsin Book!

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Meet the Author

Brian Stanley

Bryan is a soil scientist.  He grew up in the Driftless Area, and eventually earned a bachelor's degree in Natural Resources from UW-Stevens Point.

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"The cultural aspects of the Driftless Area are fascinating," he notes.  "The significance of the people who have lived here or whose lives have intersected here is historically important and significant to the story of the creation of a national park."

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Stanley is donating all profits from the book to establish a new park in Crawford County which lies in the heart of the Driftless Area.

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DID YOU KNOW THAT...

  • Prairie du Chien is Wisconsin's second oldest community.  Green Bay was the first - both areas were established by the French.

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  • The first (and only), President of the Confederate States of America, Jefferson Davis, was a U.S. Army officer stationed at Fort Crawford at Prairie du Chien.

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  • The term, "Driftless Area" means that no glacial drift is found in this region of deep valleys and high hills.

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  • Petroglyphs are rock engravings or sculptures while pictographs are drawings done with charcoal, paint, or other materials.

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  • To create a new National Park, the proposed area must be deemed nationally significant in at least one of these three areas:

    1. Natural​

    2. Historical

    3. High Recreation Potential

The Driftless Area has all three!​

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To purchase your spectacular Wisconsin book today, click here or you can contact Bryan at bryan@driftlessrivers.org

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