Bluff Country Panoramic Road

Take a journey through the stunning landscapes of Bluff Country on the Panoramic Road. Starting in La Crosse, this road trip is approximately 166 km long and takes approximately one day to complete. It is best to drive this route in the spring or summer months, when the weather is perfect for sightseeing. Along the way, you will be able to explore places like Lanesboro, the gateway to the Bluff Country. Here, you will find plenty of outdoor activities to take part in, such as fishing, cycling, and canoeing. You can also take in the majestic views of the river valley as you drive through this picturesque area. The road is well-maintained and suitable for every driver, so you can make the most of your trip without worrying about road conditions. This road trip is also very budget-friendly, so you can enjoy the beauty of Bluff Country without breaking the bank.

La Crosse, Wisconsin, is the perfect starting point for a road trip along the “Bluff Country Panoramic Road”. Located in the upper Midwest of the United States, La Crosse is a city known for its laid-back atmosphere and stunning natural beauty. Situated along the banks of the Mississippi River, La Crosse offers visitors a unique blend of outdoor recreation and vibrant downtown culture. For those traveling by air, La Crosse Regional Airport (LSE) is the closest international airport. Major car rental companies are available at the airport for those who prefer to explore the area by car. Once you have arrived, there are plenty of sights to explore in La Crosse. Make sure to visit Grandad Bluff, a 600-foot-tall bluff overlooking the city. The bluff provides stunning views of the surrounding countryside and the Mississippi River. For those looking for a bit of history, the La Crosse Queen Riverboat is a great place to start. The boat offers guided tours of the city, highlighting its rich history and culture. La Crosse’s bustling downtown area is also home to a variety of restaurants and shops. While exploring downtown, make sure to check out the historic Pump House Regional Arts Center. This unique art center houses a range of art galleries and performance spaces. Whether you’re looking to explore the great outdoors or experience La Crosse’s vibrant downtown culture, there’s something for everyone in this charming Wisconsin city. Make La Crosse your starting point for a road trip along the “Bluff Country Panoramic Road” and explore all that this city has to offer.

Welcome road-trippers! We invite you to join us on the scenic road trip from La Crosse to Lanesboro, a drive of just 51 miles that will take less than two hours. On the way, be sure to stop at the National Eagle Center in Wabasha, where you can learn about bald eagles and other raptors. Another interesting stop is the Minnesota Marine Art Museum in Winona, where you can explore the museum's collection of 19th and 20th century marine art. Further down the road, you can take a break in the charming town of Rushford, where you can explore the Rushford Heritage Trail and visit the Rushford Historical Museum. Finally, you'll arrive in Lanesboro, where you can explore the Root River State Trail, the Commonweal Theatre, and the Lanesboro Arts Center. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, be sure to check out the "Itinerary" of this stage. So what are you waiting for? Let's hit the road!

Are you ready for the most interesting road trip stage of your life? Start in Lanesboro, a small town nestled in the Root River Valley. Here you can visit the Lanesboro Dam, the Root River State Trail, and the Lanesboro Arts Center. Then, take a drive to Preston, a small city located on the Root River. Here you can visit the Root River Trail, the Preston Trout Hatchery, and the Preston Swimming Pool. After that, you'll be heading to your final destination - Dexter. This small town is home to the Root River Trail and the Dexter Park. This road trip stage is 44 miles long and takes less than 1 hour to complete. Along the way, you can enjoy the scenery of the Root River Valley and the surrounding area. You can also take a break at any of the attractions mentioned above. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the "Itinerary" of this stage. Have a great trip!

Tucked away in the north-east corner of Iowa, the town of Dexter is the perfect destination to end the journey along Bluff Country Panoramic Road. This small but vibrant town is known for its beautiful scenery, friendly locals, and a variety of things to see and do. For those who love the great outdoors, there’s plenty of activities to choose from. Spend a day fishing in the nearby streams, take a hike through the nearby woods, or explore the nearby parks and trails. Dexter is also known for its many wineries, offering delicious tastings of local wines and ciders. If you’re looking for some culture, Dexter is home to a variety of museums, galleries, and historic sites. Take a tour of the historic sites, visit the galleries to view the local art, or learn about the town’s history at the local museum. For those arriving by car, the closest international airport is Waterloo Regional Airport (ALO), located approximately an hour away. From there, it’s a short drive to Dexter, where you’ll find plenty of accommodation options to choose from. So, when it comes to the perfect ending to Bluff Country Panoramic Road, look no further than Dexter. With its stunning scenery, friendly locals, and plenty of things to do, you’ll be sure to have an unforgettable experience.

Before you set off

Embark on a captivating journey through the heart of Bluff Country on the Panoramic Road Trip, commencing in La Crosse, Wisconsin. This 166 km (approximately 103 miles) voyage unfolds over a day's drive amidst a tapestry of rolling hills, limestone bluffs, and charming river towns.

Key Destinations and Top Sights:

• Lanesboro: Celebrated as Bluff Country's crown jewel, Lanesboro invites exploration with its rich cultural heritage and arts scene. It's a hub for outdoor enthusiasts, boasting activities such as world-class trout fishing, extensive cycling trails including the Root River State Trail, and tranquil canoeing experiences. Visitors are treated to dramatic river valley vistas and may also enjoy the town's historical architecture and local theaters.

Best Time to Go:

The panoramic beauty of Bluff Country is most vibrant during the spring when wildflowers bloom and verdant landscapes emerge, or during the summer months, which offer warm temperatures and an abundance of outdoor activities. Fall also presents a breathtaking palette of colors for leaf-peepers.

Interesting Facts:

• The region is geologically significant, with its karst topography featuring sinkholes and caves formed in soluble rock such as limestone.
• Lanesboro is home to the Commonweal Theatre Company, a professional theater that offers year-round productions and is a staple of the town's cultural life.
• The area's unique Amish communities offer a glimpse into a lifestyle focused on simplicity and tradition, with opportunities to purchase handcrafted goods.

Potential Risks:

Drivers should remain vigilant for the dynamic weather patterns typical of the Midwest, which can include sudden thunderstorms or fog. Wildlife on or near the Roads, such as deer, can also pose risks, especially around dawn and dusk.

Facts for Roadtrippers:

• The Panoramic Road Trip is an economical adventure, with free natural attractions and affordable dining and lodging options, ensuring a memorable Trip without breaking the bank.
• The well-maintained Roads are friendly for drivers of all skill levels, featuring clear signage and ample pull-off points for taking in the breathtaking vistas.

A good choice for:

Traversing the Panoramic Road through Bluff Country is an immersive experience that connects travelers to the splendor of nature and the warmth of small-town charm. It's an idyllic retreat for those craving a one-day Road Trip that promises tranquility, beauty, and a touch of adventure.