The area's natural beauty and proximity to the Mississippi, the Black and the La Crosse Rivers attract international outdoor sports enthusiasts. The river environment serves as a migration corridor (known as the Mississippi Flyway) for numerous birds, including raptors, shorebirds and songbirds. Thousands of bald eagles winter along the Mississippi, and tundra swans rest and refuel during their annual migration between Alaska, Canada and the North Carolina shores.

Fishing, boating, water skiing, sailing and other water sports are a way of life on Lake Onalaska or one of the area's spectacular rivers or backwaters.

The Parks and Recreation department sponsors many activities - including baseball and softball programs, in-line skating, basketball, tennis, golf, baton, gymnastics, boating, arts and crafts, day camps, and senior programs.

There are 12 parks and eight playgrounds in Onalaska, including Onalaska's skate park. A modern outdoor swimming pool is scheduled for development at Van Riper Park.

Onalaska is located amid four historic western Wisconsin biking/hiking trails. The Great River State Trail connects with the La Crosse River Trail, which then connects to the Elroy-Sparta Trail and the 400 Trail. Combined, more than 100 miles of delightful trails await bikers, joggers, cross-country skiers, snowmobilers and outdoor enthusiasts.

Rolling fairways and smooth greens nestled against wooded bluffs await golf enthusiasts at three golf courses. After a round at Cedar Creek Country Club, La Crosse Country Club or Coulee Golf Bowl, enjoy a refreshing meal and drinks.

The Onalaska Omni Center is a premier venue for conferences, receptions, trade shows, concerts and company picnics. In winter, it is transformed into a sports haven, and it features an ice complex that hosts youth and adult hockey programs, group skating parties, open skating and other winter activities.

Outdoor recreation does not stop when the snow flies. Hunting, ice fishing, ice-skating, snowmobiling and sledding will keep you breathless and active.

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