Activities in the area
The outdoor oasis of Northeast Iowa & SW Wisconsin boasts stunning limestone bluffs, flowing rivers and winding scenic byways.
Explore with your canoe and fishing pole, or take the thrill-seeking up a notch at one of Iowa's whitewater parks.
The only waters in Iowa that can support trout, including native brook and stocked rainbow and browns. Visit the link below for more information of where to fish.
If you do not have a boat and would like to enjoy the river while in the area , we recommend renting a boat at one of the local businesses such as S&S boat rentals . Scheduling in advance is recommended.
Visit Lansing,IA - where there are several restaurants and bars, some quaint boutiques and antique shops and the unique Horsfall’s Variety Store where you can find almost anything!
Canoeing or Kayaking – The Friends of Pool Nine have helped create a great venue called Reno Bottoms for those who like to canoe or kayak. Reno Bottoms is about 15 miles North of Lansing on Highway #26.
Mount Hosmer – also right here in Lansing, Iowa – visitors can enjoy a spectacular view of three states (Iowa, Wisconsin, and Minnesota) and the beautiful Mississippi River simply by driving to the top of Mt. Hosmer Scenic Overlook Park. Included are a picnic area, playground equipment and several hiking trails.
Effigy Mounds National Monument -(National Park Service property) Iowa’s only national monument, the Effigy Mounds. Prehistoric American Indian mounds. Open year-round.
Yellow River State Forest – Located in Allamakee County in northeast Iowa. Its headquarters and recreation facilities are located on county highway B25, approximately 4 miles southeast of Waterville or 3 miles west of Harpers Ferry.
Fish Farm Mounds – Fish Farm Mounds State Preserve is a three-acre prehistoric cemetery (mound group) located in the southern portion of the Fish Farm Mounds Wildlife Area. It is abundant with wildlife, making it a popular hunting area.McGregor – several nice restaurants, including Cafe McGregor, and the wonderful Sadie’s Sweet Shop!
Decorah,IA – Known for its rich Norwegian-American heritage, highlighted by the Vesterheim Norwegian-American Museum and the annual Nordic Fest. It's also a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts due to its location in the Driftless Area, offering attractions like the Decorah Ice Cave State Preserve and the Upper Iowa River. Additionally, Decorah is a college town, home to Luther College. Sweet little town with many boutiques and great places to eat. To follow the eagles visit the eagle web cam here.The fish hatchery and the must-see parks are listed below:
- Twin Springs
- Will Baker (Pulpit Rock)
- Dunning’s Spring
- Ice Cave
- Palisades
- Phelps
Cross the Mississippi River on the famous Blackhawk Bridge and enter Wisconsin from Iowa -
Gays Mills, WI is 17 miles from Ferryville – turn right after crossing the bridge – then turn left onto HWY 171. Check out several orchards in the Kickapoo Valley, where you are able to purchase or pick your own apples.
Hubbard’s Fishing Float – Hwy. 35 Float is located just below Lock & Dam #9. The fishing float offers great fishing in a prime spot for those who do not have a boat. Fishing tackle available.
Rush Creek State Natural Area – some of the Midwest’s prime turkey and deer hunting public land.