Sweat and scenic views: The best places to exercise in La Crosse, WI

La Crosse, WI is known for its beautiful scenery, charming historic downtown area, vibrant arts scene, quaint neighborhoods and welcoming locals. But its also the perfect place for athletic enthusiasts who want to explore their surroundings while breaking a sweat.

One of the most popular destinations for exercise in La Crosse is Grandad Bluff (3020 Grandad Bluff Rd S). Standing 590 feet above the Mississippi River Valley and offering panoramic views of three states, this bluff offers breathtaking vistas that can be enjoyed while hiking or running. In addition to its beauty, Grandad Bluff provides an intense workout as you climb the steep trail up to the top.

Another great option is the Hixon Forest (700 County Road FA), with over 1000 acres of wooded hillsides crisscrossed by trails ideal for hiking or mountain biking. Its easy to forget youre actually within city limits as you pass through towering trees on your way up one of the many hills that are guaranteed to get your heart rate up.

If water sports are more your thing, La Crosse has got you covered too! Rent a kayak at Pettibone Park Marina (102 State St) or sign up for paddleboard yoga on Lake Onalaska (N5553 Walnut Grove Rd #5). Not only will these activities work out different parts of your body than traditional landbased exercises but theyll also give you a unique perspective on this picturesque region surrounded by rivers.

And lastly if organized sports are what float your boat check out UWL Eagle Recreation Center (1725 State St), which houses several basketball courts including three fullsized hardwood courts suitable for pickup games at any time.

No matter what type of activity gets your blood pumping fastest, La Crosse has plenty of options sure to satisfy even veteran athletes. With so much natural beauty to explore and a welcoming community of likeminded individuals, this special corner of Wisconsin is the perfect place for your next fitness adventure.

Some historical facts about La Crosse: It was first inhabited by Native American tribes including the HoChunk (Winnebago) who lived in wigwams along the Mississippi River valley, where they fished and hunted. La Crosse was named after early French traders who identified it as a good location to launch their canoes from land to waterways that would lead them onward into new territories.

Technical details for visitors: For hiking and biking options, Hixon Forest has numerous trails of varying length and difficulty so whether youre looking for an easy stroll or an intense workout theres something here for everyone! And if youre planning on renting kayaks or paddleboards at Pettibone Park Marina just be sure to call ahead as availability may vary depending on weather conditions. Lastly if you plan on playing basketball at UWL Eagle Recreation Center make sure to bring appropriate footwear!

Websites:

https://explorelacrosse.com/

https://www.cityoflacrosse.org/

http://www.uwlax.edu/

Twitter handles:

@LaCrosseWIgov

@UWLaCrosse