Intermediate / Advanced walk at the Rush Creek Scientific & Natural Area
Nestled in the rugged Mississippi River bluffs, Rush Creek is one of Wisconsin’s premier state natural areas. This 2,000 acre site supports extensive tracts of oak forest and the best remaining bluff prairies in the upper Midwest. Hiking will include up-hill areas, and views of the river corridor are spectacular. Possible species include Pileated Woodpecker, Scarlet Tanager, Eastern Towhee, Great–crested Flycatcher, Red-shouldered Hawk Cerulean Warbler, and other spring migrants.
Day & Time: Friday morning at 7:00am - 11:00am.
No Fee
Level of Difficulty: Moderate to strenuous
Note: please wear good walking / hiking shoes
Directions:
Located roughly 35 miles south of La Crosse on Highway 35. From the Festival Headquarters, follow Hwy. 35 south, following it through the south side of La Crosse. Stay on Hwy. 35 South when Hwy. 14/61 splits off. After you pass the town of DeSoto and the bridge to Lansing, IA, go a few more miles and watch for Rush Creek Interpretive Sign and small parking lot on the left side of the road. Drive about ½ mile more, and turn left onto Rush Creek Road (gravel road). Go about 3/10ths of a mile, and watch for a small parking lot on the left. The group will meet here.
(Note: if you come to the town of Ferryville, you have gone too far).
Meeting: Parking lot described above.
Drive Time: 1 hour