Lower Wisconsin River Road

Follow the Lower Wisconsin River Road through one of the Midwest’s most unspoiled river corridors, where the Wisconsin River carves its way through towering sandstone bluffs and lush bottomland forests. This Wisconsin State Scenic Byway traces the final stretch of the Wisconsin River as it flows toward its confluence with the Mississippi, offering travelers a landscape shaped by thousands of years of geological history.

Along the route, watch for bald eagles soaring above the river, great blue herons wading in shallow backwaters, and white-tailed deer grazing in open meadows. Stop at overlooks where weathered bluff faces reveal layers of ancient rock, and explore small river towns that retain their quiet, unhurried character. Canoeists and kayakers share the waterway below, paddling one of Wisconsin’s most beloved stretches of river.

Spring brings wildflower-covered hillsides and migrating birds, while fall transforms the bluffs into a tapestry of gold, crimson, and amber. Summer invites lazy riverside picnics and swimming at sandy banks.

Allow a half day to drive the route at a leisurely pace, with time for short hikes, wildlife viewing, and soaking in the river valley’s timeless beauty.

Explore Nearby

• Yellowstone Lake State Park — State Park in Wisconsin
• Wyalusing State Park — State Park in Wisconsin
• Chequamegon–Nicolet National Forest — National Forest in Wisconsin
• Stonefield Village Covered Bridge — Covered Bridge in Wisconsin
• Springwater Volunteer Covered Bridge — Covered Bridge in Wisconsin