Nature and the Outdoors
There is no better place to enjoy and explore the great outdoors than in the Prairie du Chien area. From its wooded bluffs to the waters of the mighty Mississippi River, the region offers endless opportunities to enjoy nature at its best during any season. The Mississippi River environment serves as a migration corridor not only for waterfowl, but also for numerous other birds such as raptors, shorebirds and neo-tropical migratory songbirds. In the spring and summer, the river provides important nesting habitat for many species. Even in the coldest months, the area serves as wintering ground for northern bird populations in addition to year-round residents. Bald Eagle watching during the cold winter months is a popular activity as these magnificent birds feed from open-water feeding areas close to shore.
Sportsmen hunt for deer, turkey and small game, and take advantage of prime fishing on the Mississippi and its bountiful backwaters. The Wisconsin and Kickapoo rivers are found nearby for additional fishing and canoeing/boating options.
Scenic St. Feriole Island contains Lawler Park on the banks of the Mississippi, which features the Walk of History detailing earliest periods of Prairie du Chien’s history, boat landings and picnic shelters/areas. The island is a popular location for walking, biking and watching ducks, eagles and other birds in season. St. Feriole Baseball Park is headquarters for numerous sport competitions throughout the summer.
La Riviere Park is a 300-acre natural setting park with native prairie. It provides opportunity for hiking, bird watching, skiing, 50 to 60 miles of horseback riding trails, archery area, mountain bicycling area, picnic area, shelter house and camping.
The Upper Mississippi River National Wildlife and Fish Refuge extends into the Prairie du Chien area and provides fishing, hunting, camping and wildlife watching experiences throughout the year.
The Prairie du Chien area has many picturesque vantage points overlooking the Mississippi River, where people may immerse themselves in the region’s natural beauty year-round. Wyalusing State Park, 10 miles south of Prairie du Chien, is located at the junction of the Mississippi and Wisconsin rivers and features majestic scenic overlooks. This popular park offers campsites, picnic facilities, 22 miles of hiking and nature trails, cross-country skiing and naturalist programs. Pikes Peak State Park, across the river from Wyalusing, is one of Iowa’s most beautiful parks. It contains scenic overlooks, campsites, picnic grounds, waterfall, hiking and nature trails.
Effigy Mounds National Monument is also across the Mississippi River from Prairie du Chien and contains 2,526 acres with 206 mounds of which 31 are effigies. Visitors enjoy spectacular views from the bluffs along the river and experience more than 100 acres of native prairie by walking along 14 miles of hiking trails.
