Hixon Forest: A Scenic Escape Right In the City
Nestled in the heart of La Crosse, Wisconsin is a hidden gem known as Hixon Forest. This sprawling urban forest covers over 750 acres and provides a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Though it may seem unbelievable that such an oasis could exist right in the middle of a city, Hixon Forest has been carefully preserved to offer nature lovers a scenic getaway without leaving town.
Hixon Forest features over 15 miles of hiking and biking trails that wind through dense forest and scenic rock outcroppings. Visitors can choose from easy walking paths to more challenging mountain bike trails, making the park accessible for outdoor enthusiasts of all levels. One of the most popular trails is the Bluffside Trail, a 2.2 mile loop that offers panoramic views of La Crosse and the surrounding bluffs. It’s the perfect place to watch the sunset over the city.
In addition to hiking and biking, Hixon Forest has plenty of space for picnicking and exploring. The forest includes a picnic area with grills and tables, as well as a picturesque pedestrian bridge over the La Crosse River. Families often come to wade in the shallow waters of the river or enjoy a snack while taking in the tranquil views. The diverse habitat also provides excellent opportunities for bird watching, with over 100 species spotted in the park.
One of the things that makes Hixon Forest unique is its rich history. The area was originally settled by Austrian immigrant Frank Hixon in the mid-1800s. He was drawn to the site for its bountiful maple trees, which he tapped to produce maple syrup. In 1970, the Hixon family partnered with the City of La Crosse to preserve part of their inherited land as public parkland. The result is a beautiful forest that retains much of its original wilderness character.
Over the years, dedicated community members and organizations have continued to support and improve Hixon Forest. In 2015, volunteers from the Quality of Life Association spent over 4,000 hours building new hiking and biking trails. Eagle Scout projects have also enhanced the park by building park benches, informational kiosks, and even a disc golf course.
The City of La Crosse provides excellent recreational facilities to make visiting Hixon Forest enjoyable. The main parking lot off of East Avenue includes restrooms and water fountains. Well-marked trails have wayfinding signs to help visitors navigate the park. It’s recommended to bring along a trail map, which can be found on the City of La Crosse Parks & Recreation website.
One of the best times to visit Hixon Forest is in the fall, when the leaves turn vibrant shades of red, orange, and yellow. The scenic views are particularly breathtaking during autumn. However, the park has something special to offer during every season. In winter, trails are open for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. Spring brings blooming wildflowers like trillium and bluebells. And summer provides a cool, shady forest retreat from the Wisconsin heat.
Hixon Forest is beloved by the local community and has something to offer visitors of all ages and interests. Young adventurers can explore the woods and discover frogs, turtles, and salamanders along the river’s edge. Adults appreciate that it provides an easily accessible yet immersive nature experience right in the city. And everyone enjoys picnicking and taking in the views from the bluffs.
So next time you’re looking for a scenic escape without leaving La Crosse, consider discovering the city’s best kept secret wilderness at Hixon Forest. With over 15 miles of trails to explore, it’s a secluded oasis that continues to be carefully preserved for all to enjoy. You don’t have to venture far to find a peaceful retreat in nature when this forest gem exists right in La Crosse’s backyard.
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Nestled in the heart of downtown La Crosse lies a verdant escape from the urban hustle and bustle. Spanning over 20 acres, Myrick Park is a beloved community fixture that offers visitors and residents alike a place to play, relax, and reconnect with nature without leaving the city limits. With its lush forests, winding trails, and recreational facilities, this green getaway has rightfully earned its nickname as La Crosse’s “Central Park.”
Myrick Park: Green Space With Playgrounds and Trails
Myrick Park’s history reaches back to the late 1800s, when La Crosse resident Albert Myrick donated land to establish a public park for the enjoyment of the people. Over the decades, additional land acquisitions expanded the park to its present size. Today, Myrick Park stands as the crown jewel of La Crosse’s acclaimed parks and recreation system, offering over 20 acres of pristine forestry, trails, and recreational amenities.
It’s easy to forget you’re in the heart of a city while strolling through Myrick Park’s lush forests and gardens. Towering oaks, maples, and pines provide cooling shade during hot summer days. Songbirds flit among the branches while squirrels and chipmunks scamper across the woodland floors. It’s a taste of wilderness right in the urban center.
For those looking to enjoy some active recreation, Myrick Park has something for everyone. The park’s trail system spans over 2 miles, allowing visitors to hike, jog, or bike through the verdant landscapes. Paved paths encircle the park, while more rustic dirt trails cut through the forests for a back-to-nature feel. Trailheads and maps help visitors navigate the routes.
In addition to trails, the park contains several playgrounds where kids can climb, slide, and swing to their hearts’ content. Playscapes like the recently remodeled Houska Park offer modern equipment and rubberized surfaces. Nature play areas allow children to explore the outdoors through logs, boulders, and other natural elements. Shaded picnic tables provide the perfect spot for a snack after working up an appetite at the playground.
For those who want to extend a visit, Myrick Park contains a campground with over 40 sites. Tent campers and RVers will find electric hookups and clean bathrooms and showers. Reservations fill up quickly, so book early for peak season. Primitive campsites are available on a first come, first served basis.
In addition to trails, playgrounds, and camping, the park also contains several sports fields available for rental. Baseball diamonds, soccer pitches, and volleyball courts give community leagues and teams space to practice and compete. Visitors are also welcome to use them on a drop-in basis when not reserved.
Beyond sports and recreation, Myrick Park acts as a community hub and event space. The park hosts festivals, concerts, and other special events throughout the year that draw residents together. Holiday lights transform the park into a winter wonderland during the annual Rotary Winter Wonderland event. Other seasonal happenings include a flower show, outdoor movies, and nature-themed activities.
Discover Hidden Gems Within the Park
While playgrounds, trails, and campgrounds create the backbone of Myrick Park, several hidden gems provide more unique experiences. Here are some insider spots to check out on your next visit:
- The Grotto Garden – A quaint rock garden with trickling waterfall, moss-covered boulders, and shaded sitting areas.
- Whispering Pines – A peaceful pine forest with benches for relaxation and reflection.
- Birdwatching – Spot feathered locals at the park’s many feeders and among the trees.
- Myrick Park Center – An arts and environmental education center with exhibits and programs.
- Holland Japanese Gardens – Traditional Japanese garden with arched bridges, coy fish ponds, and pagoda.
The many secluded nooks and off-the-beaten-path finds give Myrick Park a sense of mystery and discovery. You never know what beauty might be around the next bend in the trail.
Essential Information for Visiting Myrick Park
Myrick Park is located at 789 Myrick Park Drive in downtown La Crosse. The park is open daily from 5:00am to 11:00pm. No entrance fees apply. Here are some key details to help plan your visit:
- Parking – Three main lots provide 140+ free parking spots. Additional street parking lines the park.
- Restrooms – Modern, composting bathrooms located near the main parking areas.
- Accessibility – Paved paths, playgrounds, and building access provide wheelchair accessibility.
- Leashed pets are welcome in most areas except playgrounds and sports fields.
- Alcohol is prohibited except at reserved picnic shelters.
Whether you come for an hour or make a day of it, Myrick Park promises beautiful scenery, recreational activities, and community gathering spaces perfect for enjoying La Crosse’s natural side. Locals consider the park one of the city’s top points of pride and an essential piece of what makes La Crosse so livable. So on your next visit to La Crosse, make sure to venture into the verdant escape of Myrick Park and discover the forest within the city.
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Hixon Forest Nature Center
Myrick Park Center
Grandad Bluff
La Crosse River State Trail
Pearl Street Brewery
Pettibone Boat Tours
Take a Food Tour
Beyond its beautiful riverside setting, La Crosse offers many hidden gems waiting to be uncovered – from secluded nature escapes to one-of-a-kind local businesses. Take the time to stray off the beaten path and explore this distinctive river city at your own pace. You’re sure to find that La Crosse has charms you never expected.
Pettibone Park: Downtown Green Space and Marina
La Crosse Center
Copeland Park & Stadium
Black River Beach
La Crosse Queen Cruises
Hixon House & Sculpture Garden
Beyond its beautiful riverside setting, La Crosse offers many hidden gems waiting to be uncovered – from secluded nature escapes to one-of-a-kind local businesses. Take the time to stray off the beaten path and explore this distinctive river city at your own pace. You’re sure to find that La Crosse has charms you never expected.
La Crosse River State Trail: Journey Through Wetlands and Forests
Veterans Memorial Park & Campground
Norskedalen Nature & Heritage Center
Wildcat Mountain State Park
Marketfest & Downtown Farmers Market
Beyond its beautiful riverside setting, La Crosse offers many hidden gems waiting to be uncovered – from secluded nature escapes to one-of-a-kind local businesses. Take the time to stray off the beaten path and explore this distinctive river city at your own pace. You’re sure to find that La Crosse has charms you never expected.
Grandad Bluff Park: Hike With Panoramic River Views
Goose Island County Park
Fort McCoy Military Museum
DeSoto National Wildlife Refuge
Pump House Regional Center for the Arts
Beyond its beautiful riverside setting, La Crosse offers many hidden gems waiting to be uncovered – from secluded nature escapes to one-of-a-kind local businesses. Take the time to stray off the beaten path and explore this distinctive river city at your own pace. You’re sure to find that La Crosse has charms you never expected.
La Crosse Center: Concerts, Shows, and More
Mindoro Cut
La Crosse Distilling Company
Collatz Brewery
Beyond its beautiful riverside setting, La Crosse offers many hidden gems waiting to be uncovered – from secluded nature escapes to one-of-a-kind local businesses. Take the time to stray off the beaten path and explore this distinctive river city at your own pace. You’re sure to find that La Crosse has charms you never expected.
La Crosse Queen and Lady Liberty Cruises: Riverboat Tours
La Crosse Local History Archives
Miletta Vista Winery
Beyond its beautiful riverside setting, La Crosse offers many hidden gems waiting to be uncovered – from secluded nature escapes to one-of-a-kind local businesses. Take the time to stray off the beaten path and explore this distinctive river city at your own pace. You’re sure to find that La Crosse has charms you never expected.
Pearl Ice Cream Parlor: Old Fashioned Treats
Chase on the Lake
Fayze’s Bakery & Restaurant
Mindfield
Beyond its beautiful riverside setting, La Crosse offers many hidden gems waiting to be uncovered – from secluded nature escapes to one-of-a-kind local businesses. Take the time to stray off the beaten path and explore this distinctive river city at your own pace. You’re sure to find that La Crosse has charms you never expected.
Pump House Regional Arts Center: Exhibits and Classes
Old Market Square
La Crosse Foot Tours
La Crosse Skyrockers
Beyond its beautiful riverside setting, La Crosse offers many hidden gems waiting to be uncovered – from secluded nature escapes to one-of-a-kind local businesses. Take the time to stray off the beaten path and explore this distinctive river city at your own pace. You’re sure to find that La Crosse has charms you never expected.
La Crosse Distilling Co: Award Winning Spirits
Grandad Bluff International Friendship Garden
La Crosse Loggers Baseball
Pearl Street Brewery
Beyond its beautiful riverside setting, La Crosse offers many hidden gems waiting to be uncovered – from secluded nature escapes to one-of-a-kind local businesses. Take the time to stray off the beaten path and explore this distinctive river city at your own pace. You’re sure to find that La Crosse has charms you never expected.
Pearl Street Brewery: Local Craft Beer and Food
La Crosse County Historical Society
Lakeview Drive-In
Degen Berglund Vineyard
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La Crosse Municipal Transit Utility
La Crosse Center Farmers Market
Poage Landing Days
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Norskedalen Nature & Heritage Center: Outdoor Adventures
Vista Cruises
La Crosse Street Department
Riverside International Friendship Garden
Beyond its beautiful riverside setting, La Crosse offers many hidden gems waiting to be uncovered – from secluded nature escapes to one-of-a-kind local businesses. Take the time to stray off the beaten path and explore this distinctive river city at your own pace. You’re sure to find that La Crosse has charms you never expected.
DeSoto National Wildlife Refuge: Spot Bald Eagles and More
Amtrak Station
Colgan’s Culinary School
Beyond its beautiful riverside setting, La Crosse offers many hidden gems waiting to be uncovered – from secluded nature escapes to one-of-a-kind local businesses. Take the time to stray off the beaten path and explore this distinctive river city at your own pace. You’re sure to find that La Crosse has charms you never expected.