La Crosse is an incredible playground for all kinds of outdoor enthusiasts. From fabulous hiking and biking trails to stunning parks along the Great River Road in Wisconsin for spring birdwatching, you’ll never run out of things to do here. Of course, there’s plenty for those who love artistic and cultural endeavors, too!
The Great River Road is a 3,000-mile route that skirts along the edges of the Mississippi River. Not only does it offer a fascinating glimpse at the Mississippi River’s historic role in communities all along its banks, but the Great River Road in Wisconsin is also home to some of the best birdwatching.
There are vast swaths of protected land along the Great River Road in Wisconsin, Minnesota, Iowa, and more. This includes popular birdwatching destinations like Trempealeau National Wildlife Refuge near La Crosse and the Upper Mississippi River National Wildlife & Fish Refuge. Thousands of birds migrate through these pristine and protected habitats each spring and fall along what is known as the Mississippi Flyway.
When you stay somewhere as elegant as our Bed and Breakfast in Wisconsin, you can truly enjoy the best of La Crosse. From quiet afternoons birdwatching to elegant evenings at the Castle, you don’t have to sacrifice a thing during your getaway. Our historically preserved Castle is a unique lodging experience you won’t find anywhere else – but we also offer some of the best hospitality. Experience the difference, and book your room today!
Spring on the Great River Road in Wisconsin
There are plenty of places to explore along the Great River Road in Wisconsin – from charming riverside communities to protected wildlife preserves. It’s beautiful no matter the time of year you visit, and you’ll always find interesting birds and wildlife to enjoy. The Great River Road in Wisconsin is truly a nature and wildlife lover’s paradise.
During the annual spring and fall bird migrations that move along the Great River Road in Wisconsin, you can spot at least 325 different species of birds. These birds are migrating from their breeding grounds in Canada to their wintering grounds in the Gulf. Of course, there are also plenty of birds and wildlife that live near the river year-round.
There are several places worth visiting along the Great River Road in Wisconsin. Whether you’re simply in the La Crosse area and looking for a few birdwatching recommendations or traveling the length of this historic route, we’ve compiled a list of four of our favorite birding hot spots along the nearby stretches of the Great River Road in Wisconsin.
- One of the best places for birdwatching on the Great River Road in Wisconsin is Trempealeau National Wildlife Refuge. It’s about 45 minutes north of our Bed and Breakfast and situated on the quiet backwaters of the Mississippi River. It provides 6,800 pristine acres of wildlife habitat and is one of the best places to watch the annual spring bird migration that moves through the area. Trempealeau National Wildlife Refuge provides protected prairies, bottomland forests, and wetlands, which serve as resting and feeding grounds for migrating birds.
- Another top destination for birdwatching on the Great River Road in Wisconsin is the Upper Mississippi River National Wildlife and Fish Reserve. It’s a mouthful to say, but this spectacular birdwatching destination has long been a vital habitat for migrating birds, fish, and other wildlife. The massive refuge stretches 261 miles along the Mississippi River and encompasses over 240,000 acres of pristine habitat. This area is considered a Wetland of International Importance and a Globally Important Bird Area. You’ll find observation decks, pull-offs, and canoe and bike trails throughout the reserve to help you enjoy it fully.
- Just off the Mississippi River, on the quiet backwaters of the Black River, you’ll find another great place for birdwatching: The Van Loon State Wildlife Area. Notable bird species documented here include yellow-crowned night herons, Acadian flycatchers, cerulean warblers, and various species of woodpeckers. Not only is this protected area home to more great bird and wildlife viewing, but it’s also home to a series of historic railroad bridges, adding even more interest to your adventure along the Great River Road in Wisconsin.
- Though it’s at its best in the winter, another great place to visit along the Great River Road is the National Eagle Center in Wabasha. It’s a significant nesting ground for eagles, raptors, and other waterfowl.
Unwind in Luxury at our Castle in La Crosse
As fantastic as these destinations along the Great River Road in Wisconsin are, they do nothing to compare to the elevated lodging experience you’ll find behind the doors of our Bed and Breakfast in Wisconsin. After all, when else do you get the opportunity to stay in an authentic, historic castle?
The Castle, now known as the Castle La Crosse Bed and Breakfast, has changed ownership only a few times over its many years of existence, but we’re proud to carry on the legacy (and arduous task) of maintaining this incredible building and preserving it for the town and its visitors. We’re more than a grand, historic building to admire, though.
The Castle La Crosse is the leading romantic Bed and Breakfast in Wisconsin. Though our home is massive, we offer just five guest rooms – each spacious and elegant. You’ll find sumptuous queen or king-sized beds, luxury linens, and plenty of high-end amenities in each room.
Each morning of your stay, we’ll treat you to a gourmet, multi-course breakfast in our stunning dining room. It’s one of our favorite parts of the day, as we take great pride in crafting a delicious breakfast for our guests. Whatever your reason for visiting La Crosse, we hope you elevate your stay and book your room at our Bed and Breakfast in Wisconsin today!
