Scenic Overlooks
At regular intervals along the Wisconsin Great River Road, you’ll find scenic overlooks and observation areas for viewing the beauty of the Mississippi River and the surrounding countryside. Winter, spring, summer and fall, the Mississippi River Valley offers birdwatchers, landscape painters and anyone who appreciates natural beauty a chance to see some of the Midwest’s finest scenery.
Here are just a few of the outstanding scenic overlooks and vantage points located along the Wisconsin Great River Road. Listed from south to north.
- Nelson Dewey State Park at Cassville — A stunning view of the Mississippi River and an outstanding eagle watching location.
- Wyalusing State Park at Bagley — Take in the same view recorded by the explorers Marquette and Joliet in 1673.
- Old Settlers at Stoddard – Great location for a picnic, a hike, and maybe even some star gazing.
- Grandad Bluff at La Crosse — See panoramic views of Iowa, Minnesota and Wisconsin and the entire City of La Crosse.
- Sunny the Sunfish at Onalaska — Take your picture with Sunny the Sunfish and see majestic views of Lake Onalaska.
- Perrot State Park at Trempealeau — From Brady’s Bluff, viewers can gaze on beautiful Trempealeau Mountain, a bluff surrounded by the Mississippi River.
- Buena Vista Park at Alma — Located high above the river valley, this park offers views of Lock & Dam #4 and the storybook town of Alma.
- Freedom Park at Prescott — This park located at the top of a 400-foot bluff is home to the Great River Road Interpretive Center as well as one of the best views in Wisconsin.
Header photo courtesy of Travel Wisconsin
