Wyalusing State Park a destination site for kayaking, hiking or just taking in the views
By John Cuff
Unusually warm weather in September provided an excellent opportunity for my brother, James, and I to spend three days camping at beautiful Wyalusing State Park.
I had reached out to James to see if he would like to camp and do some kayaking. He was so excited that he drove to the park to pick out the best spot available. He did well.
He got a site with a great view and just a short walk to the shower facilities. We enjoyed the amazing overlooks and visited the Passenger Pigeon monument.
The kayaking was lovely with easy access to the calm backwater of the Mississippi.
Wyalusing, one of the state's oldest state parks, is a gem located in southwestern Wisconsin. It is situated on bluffs where the Wisconsin River flows into the Mississippi River. It is located in Bagley, Wisconsin, about 10 miles south of Prairie du Chien, in the Driftless area.
The Wisconsin Driftless Area is a unique geological region in southwestern Wisconsin, extending into parts of Minnesota, Iowa, and Illinois, that was untouched by the last major glacial period. This lack of glacial activity left behind a distinctive landscape of steep hills, deep valleys, and forested ridges, a stark contrast to the typically flat terrain found in much of the Midwest. The park has some of the most beautiful scenic views in the state.
Wyalusing State Park offers a wide variety of activities and features, making it a popular destination throughout the year. Activities include biking, hiking, birding, and a variety of water sports. In the winter, the park offers trails for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.
The park includes Native American burial mounds and a monument dedicated to the extinct passenger pigeon. Wyalusing State Park is also a National Natural Landmark due to its hardwood forest. The park is home to the Lawrence L. Huser Astronomy Center, which features a 16-inch telescope and free public viewing events.
Visitors to Wyalusing State Park in October will be treated to Wisconsin’s beautiful fall colors.
Our state park system is wonderful, providing access to protected beautiful places for all residents and visitors. They are also a great stimulant to local businesses. Enjoy.
