
Hixon Forest
Discover Hixon Forest, a natural paradise in La Crosse, WI, offering stunning overlooks, thrilling bike trails, and abundant wildlife.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the heat and bugs

Hixon Forest
Best Time
Beat the heat and bugs
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover Hixon Forest, a natural paradise in La Crosse, WI, offering stunning overlooks, thrilling bike trails, and abundant wildlife.
"Beautiful views and great trails for hiking and biking make Hixon Forest a must-visit."

🦟 Bug Spray is Essential
Don't forget strong bug spray, especially in summer. Mosquitoes can be intense!
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Trails range from easy to intermediate. Good footwear is key for enjoying your hike or bike ride.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Scenic Overlooks
Various points throughout the forest
Discover breathtaking views of La Crosse and the surrounding bluffs. Perfect for photos and soaking in nature's grandeur.

Mountain Biking Trails
Upper Hixon Forest
Experience thrilling downhill rides and well-maintained trails for a fun biking adventure. Some are rated for intermediate riders .

Wildlife Sightings
Throughout the forest
Keep an eye out for local wildlife like frogs and deer, adding an extra layer of magic to your visit .

Rotary Vista Trail
Specific trail within Hixon Forest
A popular trail offering beautiful vistas, perfect for a refreshing hike and connecting with nature .
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Outdoors: What to Pack
Trail Etiquette & Respect
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🦟 Bug Spray is Essential
Don't forget strong bug spray, especially in summer. Mosquitoes can be intense!
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Trails range from easy to intermediate. Good footwear is key for enjoying your hike or bike ride.
🐕 Leash Your Dog
Help keep the trails safe and enjoyable for everyone by keeping dogs on a leash.
🚴 Check Your Bike
If biking, ensure your bike is in good working order for a smoother ride.
Tips
from all over the internet
🦟 Bug Spray is Essential
Don't forget strong bug spray, especially in summer. Mosquitoes can be intense!
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Trails range from easy to intermediate. Good footwear is key for enjoying your hike or bike ride.
🐕 Leash Your Dog
Help keep the trails safe and enjoyable for everyone by keeping dogs on a leash.
🚴 Check Your Bike
If biking, ensure your bike is in good working order for a smoother ride.
📸 Capture the Views
Bring your camera or phone to snap photos of the stunning overlooks and natural beauty.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Hixon Forest is praised for its beautiful scenery and well-maintained trails, offering great views and enjoyable biking opportunities. Visitors appreciate the chance to see wildlife and enjoy the natural setting. However, some note the basic nature of the restrooms and the prevalence of mosquitoes.
"This place is beautiful, but be warned come with bug spray I never had to fight through so much Mosquitoes in my life, and I'm from East Texas."
Zackary McKay
"Lovely trails, I believe they were rated intermediate. Beautiful views if you're willing to walk a little while to get there. 4 stars instead of 5 because the restrooms are portapotties and kind of gross. However, it is the great outdoors so if you hike often, using the restroom outside isn't a big deal. We also saw frogs and deer which was a huge highlight. Blackberries grow naturally on some parts of the trail. Definitely worth the trip!"
Kayla Nicole
"Some great trails with some fab static views of the city and surrounding bluffs. Trails are easy to intermediate and are easy to navigate."
Alex Stolzman
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Hixon Forest is located in La Crosse, Wisconsin. It's accessible by car, with parking available at various trailheads. Many visitors use GPS or mapping apps to find the most convenient entry point for their planned activities.
Public transportation options to Hixon Forest may be limited. It's generally recommended to drive or use ride-sharing services to reach the forest. Check local La Crosse transit schedules for any available routes that might get you close.
Parking is available at several access points throughout Hixon Forest. Popular trailheads often have designated parking areas. Arriving early, especially on weekends, is advised as spots can fill up.
Yes, Hixon Forest has multiple entrances and access points, catering to different trailheads and activities like hiking and biking. The Upper Hixon Forest area is particularly known for its biking trails.
Hixon Forest is generally well-marked, especially the main access points. Using a GPS device or a reliable mapping app on your smartphone will ensure you reach the desired part of the forest without issue.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Hixon Forest is a public park and does not require tickets for entry. It's free to explore and enjoy the natural beauty.
Hixon Forest is typically open from dawn until dusk. However, specific trail access or facilities might have different hours, so it's always good to check local advisories if you plan to visit very early or late.
There is no admission fee to enter Hixon Forest. It's a publicly accessible natural area for everyone to enjoy.
While there aren't typically official guided tours readily available, local running clubs sometimes organize events like the RUD Run. You can also explore with friends or family and discover the trails together.
Yes, Hixon Forest hosts events like the Hixon 4est RUD Run, a unique race that goes until done. Keep an eye on local event listings for other potential activities.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Hixon Forest offers a variety of trails, many rated easy to intermediate. The Rotary Vista Trail is a popular choice for scenic views. Explore different paths to find your favorite.
Absolutely! The Upper Hixon Forest area is known for its fun mountain biking trails, offering some good downhill sections and enjoyable rides for various skill levels.
Restrooms are available, though some reviews mention they are portapotties and can be basic. It's advisable to be prepared for outdoor facilities if you plan an extended visit.
Yes, dogs are welcome in Hixon Forest, but it's crucial to keep them on a leash at all times to ensure the safety and comfort of all visitors and wildlife.
Visitors have reported seeing frogs and deer in Hixon Forest, adding to the natural charm of the area. Keep an eye out during your exploration.
📸 📸 Photography
The scenic overlooks offer fantastic panoramic views of La Crosse and the surrounding bluffs, making them prime photography locations. Sunset photography is also popular here.
Yes, Hixon Forest is excellent for nature photography with its diverse flora, potential wildlife sightings, and beautiful landscapes. The changing seasons also offer unique photographic opportunities.
Early mornings and late afternoons often provide the best lighting for photography, with softer light and fewer harsh shadows. Sunsets are particularly beautiful from the overlooks.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's best to check with local authorities or park management regarding any restrictions on drone operation within Hixon Forest to ensure compliance.
While many spots offer great views, the overlooks providing expansive vistas of the city and bluffs are highly recommended for memorable photos.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Remember to bring bug spray, as mosquitoes can be prevalent, especially during warmer months. Keeping dogs on a leash is also important for family safety and to ensure a pleasant experience for everyone. The scenic views offer great photo opportunities for family memories.
🚴♀️ Mountain Bikers
While the trails are generally well-maintained, conditions can vary. It's wise to check recent trail reports if possible. The forest provides a great natural playground for a fun and energetic ride.
🚶♀️ Hikers and Nature Lovers
Don't forget essentials like water, comfortable footwear, and bug spray. The opportunity to see local wildlife and enjoy the fresh air makes Hixon Forest a perfect spot for a rejuvenating outdoor experience.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating Hixon Forest Trails
Mountain bikers will find particularly engaging terrain in the Upper Hixon Forest area, with some trails offering exciting downhill sections and good flow. It's always a good idea to check trail conditions before heading out, especially after inclement weather, as some areas can become soft or require minor upkeep.
When exploring, remember that some trails are multi-use. Be mindful of other visitors, whether they are hikers, bikers, or families enjoying a walk. Respecting shared spaces ensures a positive experience for everyone.
Wildlife and Nature Encounters
Beyond the larger fauna, the forest floor often reveals interesting flora. Blackberries grow naturally along some of the trails, offering a sweet treat for those who know where to look. The changing seasons also bring their own unique beauty, from the lush greens of summer to the vibrant hues of autumn.
To fully appreciate the natural environment, it's important to observe wildlife from a distance and avoid disturbing their habitats. This respectful approach ensures that Hixon Forest remains a thriving sanctuary for both its animal inhabitants and its human visitors.
Responsible Recreation and Community
Respecting the natural environment also means minimizing your impact. This includes staying on marked trails to prevent erosion and habitat disruption, and always packing out everything you pack in. The goal is to leave the forest as beautiful as you found it, if not more so.
By following these guidelines and being considerate of others, you contribute to a positive and welcoming atmosphere in Hixon Forest. This shared commitment helps ensure that this beautiful natural space can be enjoyed by generations to come.




Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit