Hixon Forest

Updated September 24, 2025

Description

Hixon Forest stands as one of Wisconsin’s most rewarding outdoor destinations, offering visitors an impressive network of trails that wind through dense woodland and connect to some of the region’s most spectacular viewpoints. Located in La Crosse, this expansive forest preserve has been quietly earning recognition among hikers, mountain bikers, and nature enthusiasts who appreciate its well-maintained trail system and stunning overlooks of the Mississippi River valley.

The forest’s crown jewel is undoubtedly its connection to Grandad Bluff Park, where travelers can experience breathtaking panoramic views that stretch for miles across the city and surrounding landscape. But what really sets Hixon Forest apart from other parks is its authentic wilderness feel – you genuinely forget you’re minutes away from urban amenities once you’re deep in these woods.

I’ve always found it fascinating how this forest manages to cater to such diverse interests. Families with young children can tackle easier, shorter loops while serious hikers and mountain bikers can challenge themselves on more demanding terrain. The trail system includes multiple access points, making it incredibly convenient for visitors staying in different parts of the La Crosse area.

What strikes most visitors immediately is the forest’s remarkable accessibility features. Unlike many natural areas that can be challenging for people with mobility limitations, Hixon Forest has made genuine efforts to ensure everyone can enjoy at least portions of this beautiful space. The wheelchair-accessible entrance and parking areas demonstrate thoughtful planning that doesn’t compromise the natural character of the environment.

Key Features

Hixon Forest delivers an impressive array of attractions and amenities that make it stand out among regional parks:

• Extensive Trail Network: Over 9 documented trails ranging from easy family-friendly paths to challenging mountain bike routes
• Multiple Scenic Overlooks: Four designated vista points plus access to the famous Grandad Bluff viewpoint
• Connection to Upper Hixon Forest: Trail links across County Highway FA expand exploration opportunities significantly
• Mountain Bike Trails: Specialized single-track options including the unique “This is Not a Trail” (TNT) system
• Dog-Friendly Environment: Well-marked trails where leashed pets can accompany their owners
• Wheelchair Accessibility: Dedicated accessible parking and entrance points with suitable trail sections
• Multiple Access Points: Various entry locations throughout the forest boundary for convenient trip planning
• Kid-Friendly Options: Shorter loop trails perfect for families with children of different ages
• Historical Significance: The forest incorporates areas with roots dating back to 1912 when Grandad Bluff was first donated as public parkland
• Year-Round Activities: Trail conditions and layouts support hiking, walking, running, and seasonal recreation

Best Time to Visit

Timing your visit to Hixon Forest can dramatically impact your experience, and honestly, each season offers something completely different. Spring arrives early here compared to northern Wisconsin, typically making trails accessible by late March or early April. The forest comes alive with wildflowers and migrating birds during this period, though you’ll want to be prepared for occasional muddy conditions as winter snow melts.

Summer represents peak season for most visitors, and for good reason. Trail conditions are at their absolute best, with dry, well-maintained paths perfect for both hiking and mountain biking. The dense canopy provides excellent shade during hot afternoons, making this one of the more comfortable places to exercise during Wisconsin’s humid summers. Early morning visits during summer months offer the best wildlife viewing opportunities and cooler temperatures.

But fall – that’s when Hixon Forest truly shines. The hardwood forest transforms into a spectacular display of autumn colors, typically peaking in early to mid-October. Those overlook points I mentioned earlier? They become absolutely magical when you’re looking out over a valley painted in brilliant oranges, reds, and yellows. Fall also brings clearer air and improved visibility from the scenic vistas.

Winter shouldn’t be dismissed entirely, especially for visitors who enjoy snowshoeing or winter hiking. The trail system remains accessible during most winter conditions, though ice cleats or proper footwear become essential. Some of the most peaceful and photogenic experiences happen during light snowfall when the forest takes on an almost mystical quality.

Weekday visits generally provide a more solitary experience, while weekends can get busy, particularly on the main trails leading to Grandad Bluff. If you’re planning to mountain bike, early morning or late afternoon timing helps avoid conflicts with hikers on shared trail sections.

How to Get There

Reaching Hixon Forest is refreshingly straightforward, though the multiple access points can initially seem confusing for first-time visitors. The main access points are clearly marked and offer different advantages depending on your planned activities and physical capabilities.

For most travelers, the primary entrance provides the most convenient starting point, with ample parking and clear trail markers leading to the major attractions. The wheelchair-accessible parking area is located at this main entrance, making it the logical choice for visitors with mobility considerations or those traveling with young children who might need easier access to vehicles.

If you’re driving from out of state, La Crosse sits conveniently along major interstate routes, making Hixon Forest easily accessible as part of a larger Wisconsin or Mississippi River valley tour. The forest’s proximity to the city center means you can combine your outdoor adventure with urban amenities like restaurants, hotels, and shopping without extensive travel time.

Public transportation options exist for reaching the general area, though having a personal vehicle provides much greater flexibility for exploring different access points and timing your visit according to weather and personal preferences. Ride-sharing services typically operate in the La Crosse area, offering an alternative for travelers without rental cars.

Navigation apps and GPS systems generally provide accurate directions to the main entrance, though cell phone coverage can become spotty once you’re deep in the forest trail system. Downloading offline maps or carrying a physical trail map (available at entrance areas) prevents navigation issues during your visit.

Parking fills up during peak weekend periods and beautiful fall days, so arriving early or visiting during weekday hours ensures you’ll find convenient parking spots close to your preferred trail access points.

Tips for Visiting

Successful Hixon Forest visits require more planning than you might initially expect, and I’ve learned this through both personal experience and conversations with other regular visitors. Trail conditions can vary significantly depending on recent weather, so checking current conditions before heading out saves disappointment and potentially unsafe situations.

Proper footwear makes an enormous difference here. While some of the easier trails are manageable in regular athletic shoes, the more interesting and rewarding trail sections benefit from hiking boots or shoes with good traction. The forest includes some steep sections and potentially slippery areas, especially after rain or during spring melt periods.

Water and snacks become essential for longer explorations, particularly if you plan to hike to multiple overlook points or connect with the Upper Hixon Forest trail system. And while the forest offers beautiful shade, those scenic overlooks provide little protection from sun exposure during midday visits.

Dog owners should bring waste bags and keep pets leashed throughout the forest. The trail system includes wildlife habitat areas where unleashed dogs can disturb natural ecosystems and potentially encounter wild animals. Most other hikers and families appreciate responsible pet ownership, making everyone’s experience more enjoyable.

Trail maps are available at main access points, but taking photos with your phone provides backup navigation help if you decide to explore beyond your original planned route. The forest is large enough that getting temporarily disoriented is possible, especially for first-time visitors.

Mountain bikers should be aware that some trails are shared with hikers, and trail etiquette requires yielding right-of-way appropriately. The specialized mountain bike trails offer better opportunities for faster riding without conflicts.

Weather can change quickly in this region, so bringing layers or rain protection prevents cut-short visits. The forest canopy provides some weather protection, but those spectacular overlook points leave you completely exposed to changing conditions.

Finally, consider combining your Hixon Forest visit with other La Crosse area attractions. The forest works perfectly as part of a longer day exploring the region, whether you’re interested in Mississippi River activities, local dining, or cultural attractions in the city.

Key Highlights

• Key Features
• Best Time to Visit
• How to Get There
• Tips for Visiting

Location

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