La Crosse River Conservancy Area

La Crosse River Conservancy Area

What is the La Crosse River Conservancy Area?


The La Crosse River Conservancy Area is a 373-acre nature preserve located in La Crosse County between Highway 16 and Interstate 9. The Conservancy area is aommunity-based effort to conserve the unique surrounding environment of the LA Crosse area. Many different public foundations  and private foundations combined to raise funding including:


  • Gundersen Lutheran Hospital
  • Western Wisconsin Technical College
  • Cities of La Crosse and Onalaska
  • Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS)
  • Department of Natural Resources
  • Hixon Forest Nature Center
  • Private Landowners
  • Mississippi Valley Conservancy

The area connects to the larger La Crosse River Valley, which is another great spot for outdoor recreation. The La Crosse River State Trail offers activities like hiking, bird-watching, hunting, fishing, and snowshoeing. In addition, the La Crosse River recently celebrated it's 25th anniversary.


It is a popular hiking destination due to its variety of activities and the unique ecosystems in the area.  The Conservancy's Acorns to Oaks environmental education program helps promote awareness and appreciation of the area's natural beauty Safety is a top priority allowing visitors to explore the area safely and responsibly.



Best hiking trails in the La Crosse River Conservancy Area


The La Crosse River Conservancy area is also home to some of the best hiking trails in Wisconsin. If you want to explore the area's scenic beauty, The La Crosse River State Trail is a great option. The trail stretches from Rockland to Onalaska, passing through the open wetlands of the river valley. The entrance to the trail is in the Stoney Cree.  Those looking to explore the area further should consider taking part in the MVC's guided snowshoe hike. This hike is sponsored by the local La Crosse Mayo Clinic Health and offered as part of the "Linked to the Land" series of outdoor experiences.  In addition, thanks to a grant from the Natural Resources Foundation of Wisconsin and the Alliant Energy Foundation, they provides loaner snowshoes if you forget to bring your own. Whichever part you choose to explore, the La Crosse River Conservancy area is a great place to explore and immerse yourself in nature.



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