Photo: Wisconsin DNR
The 22-mile La Crosse River State Trail has been developed from the abandoned Chicago and Northwestern Railroad between Sparta and La Crosse. The trail is open to walkers and bicyclists spring through fall and snowmobiles in winter. Packed-limestone screenings provide a smooth surface for bicycling. Mileage markers are posted every half mile on the 7-mile section between La Crosse and West Salem.
Quick answers
When is the best time to visit La Crosse River State Trail?
It depends on what you came for. Fall color is best in October; biking in May–June and September–October; snowmobiling in January–February; and cross-country skiing in January–February.
What can you do at La Crosse River State Trail in each season?
Winter (December–February): hiking, snowmobiling, cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. Spring (March–May): hiking and biking. Summer (June–August): hiking and biking. Fall (September–November): hiking, fall color and biking.
Do you need a state park sticker at La Crosse River State Trail?
Not for the trail itself: walking and hiking La Crosse River State Trail are free. Riders 16 and older need a state trail pass for biking: $5 a day or $25 a year. If you park in a lot inside a state park, forest or recreation area, that lot still needs a vehicle sticker.
What state parks and trails are near La Crosse River State Trail?
The closest state properties, as the crow flies: Coulee State Forest (4 mi), Great River State Trail (18 mi) and Elroy-Sparta State Trail (23 mi).
Good for
- Biking
- Hiking
- Snowmobiling
- Snowshoeing
- Cross-country skiing
Best months
January · February · May · June · September · October
Visiting
- Admission: A state trail pass is required for bicycling.
- Hours: The trail is open year-round.
- Phone: 608-337-4775
Nearby
- Coulee State Forest (4 mi)
- Great River State Trail (18 mi)
- Elroy-Sparta State Trail (23 mi)
- Wildcat Mountain State Park (25 mi)
- Perrot State Park (25 mi)
Closures and alerts for La Crosse River State Trail: updates · RSS · JSON Feed
Text and park details on this page come from the property's DNR pages, checked every Monday; last change October 24, 2026. Closures and notices load live. Check current conditions before you go.