{"id":262,"date":"2021-03-22T17:35:35","date_gmt":"2021-03-22T17:35:35","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/driftless.caves.org\/?page_id=262"},"modified":"2021-05-06T19:36:03","modified_gmt":"2021-05-06T19:36:03","slug":"wi-discovery-areas","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/driftless.caves.org\/index.php\/wi-discovery-areas\/","title":{"rendered":"Wisconsin Discovery Areas"},"content":{"rendered":"\t\t
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\"Cave<\/figure><\/div>
\"Stephen's<\/figure><\/div>
\"Geology_Museum<\/figure><\/div>
\"Castle<\/figure><\/div>
\"Dells<\/figure><\/div>
\"cave<\/figure><\/div>
\"Wyalusing<\/figure><\/div>
\"Castle<\/figure><\/div>
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If you would like to select a site directly and explore what else is in this state, please select a location marker above.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

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If you would like to explore what is in individual counties, please select your county of interest above.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/section>\n\t\t\t\t

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Blue Mounds State Park<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n

4350 Mounds Park Rd., Blue Mounds, WI,\u00a053517<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n

Coordinates:<\/span><\/span>\u00a0<\/span>43.02589101276874<\/span><\/span>\u00b0N<\/span>, -89.84461754682047<\/span><\/span>\u00b0W<\/span><\/p>\n

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Perched atop the highest point in southern Wisconsin, Blue Mound State Park offers spectacular views and unique geological features. In 1909 Edward Lange completed his University of Wisconsin undergraduate thesis titled, Original Work on the Caves of the Driftless Area of Southwestern Wisconsin. His thesis analyzed several caves, including the \u201cBlue Mounds Cave.\u201d He described the entrance as a sink, \u201ca funnel-shaped depression about 60 feet across the top and reaching about 20 feet below\u201d the surface. The cave measured 250 feet long. Today the cave is inaccessible, however, an exhibit in the nature center explains the park\u2019s geology. Currently, staff enter the caves to survey bat populations every other year or so. Sinkholes (some are gated) can be spotted near several trails, for example, along the south side of the mound during leaf-off conditions. A sign marks one sinkhole on the John Minix Trail near the park\u2019s northern boundary. Niagara dolomite\u2014the same rock that composes the Niagara Escarpment in eastern Wisconsin\u2014caps Blue Mound, as well as Platte Mound, Belmont Mound, and Sinsinawa Mound. These mounds stand hundreds of feet above the surrounding countryside. Rivers and wind have eroded the Niagara dolomite and underlying layers from most of Southwest Wisconsin.<\/span>\n<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n

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Any fees?:<\/span><\/span>\u00a0Yes (vehicle admission stickers are required); Guided tours for groups of 8+ for\u00a0$2\/person<\/span><\/p>\n

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Accessible?:<\/span><\/span>\u00a0<\/span>Yes<\/span><\/p>\n

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Dog Friendly?:<\/span><\/span>\u00a0<\/span>Yes<\/span><\/p>\n\n

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Difficulty:\u00a0<\/span><\/span>Easy<\/span><\/p>\n

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More Info:<\/span><\/span><\/p>\nhttps:\/\/dnr.wi.gov\/topic\/parks\/name\/bluemound\/<\/u><\/span><\/a><\/span>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/section>\n\t\t\t\t

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Flint Rock Trail<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n

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This self-guided wooded\u00a01.3-mile trail offers interpretive signs explaining the geology of the Blue\u00a0Mound area. Watch for flint rock boulders scattered along this trail as the\u00a0trail takes you along the north side of the mound. Parking can be found near the\u00a0West Tower.<\/span><\/p>\n

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Accessible?:<\/span><\/span>\u00a0<\/span>No<\/span><\/p>\n

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Dog Friendly?:<\/span><\/span>\u00a0<\/span>Yes<\/span><\/p>\n\n

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Difficulty:\u00a0<\/span><\/span>Easy<\/span><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/section>\n\t\t\t\t

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Weeping Rock Trail<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n

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A 1-mile extension of\u00a0the Pleasure Valley Trail. Descend into a mixed forest of oak and maple trees.\u00a0The trail follows Ryan Creek, a spring-fed creek, down into the glen. A\u00a0beautiful rock face wall is at the bottom with water from springs seeping out\u00a0of it.<\/span><\/p>\n

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Accessible?:<\/span><\/span>\u00a0<\/span>No<\/span><\/p>\n

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Dog Friendly?:<\/span><\/span>\u00a0<\/span>Yes<\/span><\/p>\n\n

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Difficulty:\u00a0<\/span><\/span>Moderate<\/span><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/section>\n\t\t\t\t

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Ridgeview Trail<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n

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Along the south border of the park near the Military Ridge State Trail. It offers spectacular views of the surrounding area with easy access from the campground. The trail has moderate to steep hills.<\/span><\/p>\n

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Accessible?:<\/span><\/span>\u00a0<\/span>No<\/span><\/p>\n

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Dog Friendly?:<\/span><\/span>\u00a0<\/span>Yes<\/span><\/p>\n\n

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Difficulty:\u00a0<\/span><\/span>Moderate\/Difficult<\/span><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/section>\n\t\t\t\t

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Geology\u00a0Museum of the\u00a0<\/span><\/b>University of Wisconsin<\/span><\/p>\n

1215 W. Dayton St., Madison, WI,\u00a053706<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n

Coordinates:<\/span><\/b>\u00a043.07065468058263\u00b0N, -89.40597332591936\u00b0 W<\/span><\/p>\n

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The Geology Museum is free and open to the public and is\u00a0conveniently located near the heart of campus.\u00a0<\/span>A visit to the Geology Museum at the University of Wisconsin in Madison allows you to see and touch some of the oldest rock on Earth as well as explore a model of a Wisconsin cave. Take the geologic knowledge you gained from the museum over to Cave of the Mounds and see first hand a cave developed in the Driftless Area.\u00a0<\/span>Small enough to visit in a morning\u00a0or afternoon, the museum involves a self-guided journey through five different\u00a0exhibits: rocks and minerals, fossils, dinosaurs, meteorites, and a fluorescent\u00a0display. If you have a group of eight people or more, guided tours are\u00a0available for $2 each (call ahead).\u00a0<\/span>Smaller kids will be able to enjoy a replica of a cave and\u00a0<\/span>touching anything not encased in a formal display.<\/span><\/p>\n

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Any fees?:<\/span><\/b>\u00a0Yes; Guided tours for groups of 8+ for\u00a0$2\/person<\/span><\/p>\n

Accessible?:<\/span><\/span>\u00a0<\/span>Yes<\/span><\/p>\n

Dog Friendly?:<\/span><\/span>\u00a0<\/span>No<\/span><\/p>\n\n

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Difficulty:\u00a0<\/span><\/span>Moderate\/Difficult<\/span><\/p>\n

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More Info:<\/span><\/b><\/p>\n

https:\/\/geoscience.wisc.edu\/museum\/<\/span><\/u><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/section>\n\t\t\t\t

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Cave of the Mounds<\/span><\/b><\/p>\n

2975 Cave of the Mounds Road, Blue Mounds, WI 53517-0148<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n

Coordinates:<\/span><\/b>\u00a043.01743910657792\u00b0 N, -89.81570426954134\u00b0 W<\/span><\/p>\n

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Cave of the Mounds takes its name from the Blue Mounds, two large hills which have long been Wisconsin landmark features. The West Mound, at 1716 feet, is the highest point in Southern Wisconsin; the East Mound reaches 1489 feet. Cave of the Mounds lies under the southern slope of the East Mound. Commonly referred to as the “jewel box” of America\u2019s major caves for the variety and delicacy of its formations, Cave of the Mounds is recognized by the Chicago Academy of Sciences as “the significant cave of the upper Midwest”.<\/span><\/p>\n

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A guided tour of the Cave takes visitors past a varied collection of colorful stalactites, stalagmites, columns and other formations. The main cavern began forming over a million years ago as acidic water dissolved the limestone bedrock far below the surface. As Cave of the Mounds staff like to point out, geologic time is mind-boggling. It is difficult to imagine the time it took for the large caverns to be dissolved within rock that is itself believed to be over 400 million years old! A lower meandering portion of the Cave was formed by the rushing water of an underground stream. The contrast between the chemical and mechanical processes of cave formation is one of the geologic lessons illustrated on The Cave Tour.<\/span><\/p>\n

Tours are provided on a first come first served basis. Visitors should call or check their website for current conditions.<\/span><\/p>\n

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Any fees?:<\/span><\/b>\u00a0Yes<\/span><\/p>\n

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Accessible?:<\/span><\/span>\u00a0<\/span>Yes (on grounds); No (in cave)<\/span><\/p>\n

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Dog Friendly?:<\/span><\/span>\u00a0<\/span>No<\/span><\/p>\n\n

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Time to Complete:<\/span><\/span>\u00a0<\/span>Approx. 1 hour (depending on tour)<\/span><\/p>\n

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Distance:<\/span><\/span>\u00a0<\/span>0.2 Miles<\/span><\/p>\n\n

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Difficulty:\u00a0<\/span><\/span>Easy<\/span><\/p>\n

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More Info:\u00a0<\/span><\/b><\/p>\n

https:\/\/www.caveofthemounds.com\/plan-your-visit\/visit-faqs\/<\/u><\/span><\/a><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/section>\n\t\t\t\t

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Crystal Cave<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Discovered in 1881, Crystal Cave opened to the public in 1942, with some 4000 visitors showing up on opening weekend. Crystal Cave is Wisconsin\u2019s longest, with about 4600 feet of passages. Located on the northern edge of the Driftless Area, Crystal Cave lies within dolomite (containing calcium and magnesium carbonate) and features iron ore, flint, and quartz crystals. Exhibits underground and on the property outside educate about geologic periods, as well as the fossils and bats of Crystal Cave. There is an 18 hole educational dinosaur minigolf course and gem panning. Ecology efforts extend to the surface, where a seven-acre field near the property entrance has been developed as a pollinator prairie in partnership with the Wisconsin DNR and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Four electric vehicle charging stations available. Adventurous visitors can make reservations to take a three-hour wild cave trip through South Portal Cave.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n

Any fees?:\u00a0<\/span><\/span>Yes<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n

Accessible?:<\/span><\/span>\u00a0<\/span>No<\/span><\/p>\n

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Dog Friendly?:<\/span><\/span>\u00a0<\/span>No<\/span><\/p>\n

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Time to Complete:<\/span><\/span>\u00a0<\/span>2 hours (3 hours for Wild Cave Tours)\u00a0<\/span>\n<\/span><\/p>\n\n

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Distance:<\/span><\/span>\u00a0<\/span>1\/2 Mile<\/span><\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n

Difficulty:\u00a0<\/span><\/span>Moderate<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

More Info:\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n

http:\/\/www.acoolcave.org<\/u><\/span><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/section>\n\t\t\t\t

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Dells of the Eau Claire<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

A three-mile segment of\u00a0the National Scenic Ice Age Trail travels along the Eau Claire River and\u00a0through Dells of the Eau Claire Marathon County Park. The small park contains\u00a0the Wisconsin State Natural Area of the same name. The State Natural Area\u00a0protects a rocky gorge with waterfalls and volcanic bedrock palisades tilted\u00a0nearly vertical. The river cascades over outcrops of Precambrian-age rhyolite\u00a0schist, which splits along its cleavage planes to develop multiple stream\u00a0terraces. The river ledges attract visitors each summer, as do campsites and a\u00a0swimming area above a small dam. The water current here has also created\u00a0several potholes. The Walking Bridge above the dells and the High Bridge below\u00a0the dells, combined with the Ice Age and park trails, provide complete vistas\u00a0of the gorge.<\/span><\/p>\n

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Any fees?:\u00a0<\/span><\/span>No<\/span><\/p>\n

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Accessible?:<\/span><\/span>\u00a0<\/span>Yes<\/span><\/p>\n

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Dog Friendly?:<\/span><\/span>\u00a0<\/span>Yes (on the trails), No (on the beach)<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Time to Complete:<\/span><\/span>\u00a0<\/span>1 hour\u00a0<\/span>\n<\/span><\/p>\n\n

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Distance:<\/span><\/span>\u00a0<\/span>Less than 1 Mile<\/span><\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n

Difficulty:\u00a0<\/span><\/span>Easy<\/span><\/p>\n

More Info:\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n

https:\/\/dnr.wi.gov\/topic\/Lands\/naturalareas\/index.asp?SNA=109<\/u><\/span><\/a><\/span><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/section>\n\t\t\t\t

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Governor Dodge State Park<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Governor Dodge State\u00a0Park\u2019s 450-million-year-old sandstone bluffs recall the period when vast, warm\u00a0seas covered the region, depositing layers of sand, then retreating and\u00a0returning again and again. Later, wind and water carved the park\u2019s ravines and\u00a0valleys. Excavations have revealed winter camps established by prehistoric\u00a0peoples in the sandstone caves and overhangs as much as eight millennia ago. In\u00a0particular, archaeological investigations at Deer Cove Rock Shelter evidenced\u00a0early inhabitants. Artifacts, such as projectile points, scrapers, and\u00a0choppers, discovered in excavated layers were used by both Archaic (8000 to 500\u00a0B.C.) and Woodland (500 B.C. to 1600 A.D.) peoples. Two caves, formed in St.\u00a0Peters sandstone, are accessible from the Meadow Valley Trail. Big Cave, also\u00a0known as Thomas\u2019 Cave, begins with a three-foot-high entrance and stooping\u00a0passage leading to a circular, high-ceilinged room. The Small Cave lies beyond\u00a0and above a rock shelter northeast of Twin Valley Campground. Gates have been\u00a0installed at the entrances of both caves to protect hibernating bats from human\u00a0disturbance in the off-season.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n

Any fees?:\u00a0<\/span><\/span>No (vehicle admission stickers are required)<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n

Accessible?:<\/span><\/span>\u00a0<\/span>No<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n

Dog Friendly?:<\/span><\/span>\u00a0<\/span>Yes<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Time to Complete:<\/span><\/span>\u00a0<\/span>3\/4 hour (to Small Cave from the park road), 1 hour (to Big Cave from Twin Valley Campground)<\/span>\n<\/span><\/p>\n\n

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Distance:<\/span><\/span>\u00a0<\/span>2-5 Miles<\/span><\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n

Difficulty:\u00a0<\/span><\/span>Easy (bring a flashlight and watch for puddles in Big Cave)<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

More Info:\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

https:\/\/dnr.wisconsin.gov\/topic\/parks\/govdodge<\/u><\/span><\/a><\/span><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/section>\n\t\t\t\t

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Cave Trail<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

This is a 1-mile extension of the Meadow Valley Trail. Take in eye-catching sights of Twin Valley Lake as you walk along a hilly trail that takes you near a large cave known by the locals as Thomas\u2019 Cave. Follow the grey trail markers.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n

Accessible?:<\/span><\/span>\u00a0<\/span>No<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n

Dog Friendly?:<\/span><\/span>\u00a0<\/span>Yes<\/span><\/p>\n

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Difficulty:\u00a0<\/span><\/span>Easy\/Moderate<\/span><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/section>\n\t\t\t\t

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Stephen’s Fall Trail<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

This is a 0.5-mile picturesque trail that takes hikers past Stephens\u2019 Falls, rock outcroppings and lush ferns as you walk beside a refreshing stream. There is a scenic overlook along a paved trail above the falls. Stone steps and uneven terrain will be encountered to gain access to the falls and the trail below. Follow the dark blue trail markers.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n

Accessible?:<\/span><\/span>\u00a0<\/span>No<\/span><\/p>\n

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Dog Friendly?:<\/span><\/span>\u00a0<\/span>Yes<\/span><\/p>\n

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Difficulty:\u00a0<\/span><\/span>Easy\/Moderate<\/span><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/section>\n\t\t\t\t

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Lost Canyon Trail<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

This is a 3-mile loop trail that can be reached from the Stephens\u2019 Falls area. The trail has several steep grades. You will encounter mostly wooded areas and will journey into the scenic Lost Canyon which is fed by Stephens\u2019 Falls. Follow the orange trail markers.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n

Accessible?:<\/span><\/span>\u00a0<\/span>No<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n

Dog Friendly?:<\/span><\/span>\u00a0<\/span>Yes<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Difficulty:\u00a0<\/span><\/span>Moderate\/Difficult<\/span><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/section>\n\t\t\t\t

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Castle Rock State Natural Area<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n

From Lincoln Ave (US-18 E\/US-61 S) in Fennimore go for 0.7 mi on 18. Turn left onto CR-Q and\u00a0continue for approximately 8.9 miles.\u00a0<\/span>Castle Rock will be on\u00a0the right with a pullout for several cars to park. An interpretive sign is\u00a0located at the trailhead.<\/span><\/p>\n

Coordinates:<\/span><\/span>\u00a043.0444336\u00b0 N, -90.5204033\u00b0 W<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Castle Rock is visible\u00a0from Hwy Q where you park just off the road to take the small dirt path up to\u00a0the summit. This impressive geologic structure is composed primarily of\u00a0sandstone. Its\u2019 origins began sometime between 150 and 300 million years before\u00a0present when Wisconsin was covered by a shallow sea. Deposited sediments\u00a0compacting under their own weight developed the structure you see today.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Any fees?:\u00a0<\/span><\/span>No<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n

Accessible?:<\/span><\/span>\u00a0<\/span>No (Castle Rock can be seen from the road but the trail to the top is not accessible)<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n

Dog Friendly?:<\/span><\/span>\u00a0<\/span>Yes<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

More Info:\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

https:\/\/www.topozone.com\/wisconsin\/grant-wi\/pillar\/castle-rock-146\/<\/u><\/span><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/section>\n\t\t\t\t

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Castle Rock Spring<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

In the same area of the Castle Rock, Castle Rock Spring is located just north of Church Road on the right side of Cty Tk Q. Springs, a Driftless Area feature, provide the frigid water, ideal habitat for supporting trout. The river is a classic, cold water Driftless Area stream with a noteworthy trout fishery.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n

Any Fees?:\u00a0<\/span><\/span>No, it’s free!<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n

Accessible?:<\/span><\/span>\u00a0<\/span>No (Can be seen from the Road)<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n

Dog Friendly?:<\/span><\/span>\u00a0<\/span>Yes<\/span><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/section>\n\t\t\t\t

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Snow Bottom State Natural Area<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Snow Bottom State\u00a0Natural Area lies in the very heart of a diverse and spectacular Driftless Area\u00a0landscape. It encompasses the most significant pine relicts in Wisconsin, as\u00a0well as many other important and uncommon native plant communities including\u00a0fen and springs, southern dry-mesic forest and oak woodland, riparian areas,\u00a0and geological features. Located on the scattered sandstone outcrops are the\u00a0pine relicts — isolated stands of white and red pine with occasional jack\u00a0pine. To the detriment of the oaks, more mesophytic, shade-tolerant tree\u00a0species are becoming established under current management practices and fire\u00a0suppression. Also present is a diverse wetland of calcareous fen and springs\u00a0that supports numerous calciphitic plants such as shrubby cinquefoil,\u00a0grass-of-parnassus, Kalm’s lobelia, Ohio goldenrod, boneset, and swamp thistle.\u00a0The Blue River flows north off the Military Ridge through Snow Bottom to the\u00a0Wisconsin River. Snow Bottom is owned jointly by the DNR and private landowners\u00a0and was designated a State Natural Area in 1992.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

From the intersection\u00a0of State Highway 18 and County G west of Montfort, go north on G 4.6 miles,\u00a0then east on Bowers Road 1.6 miles to a small parking area just west of the\u00a0Blue River. Walk north into the site. To access the western SNA parcel, from\u00a0the intersection of County Q and G (located east of Castle Rock), go west on\u00a0County Q 1.6 miles, then north and west on Cedar Rock Road about 0.4 miles.\u00a0Walk north into the SNA. A paddle through Snow Bottom on the Blue River is\u00a0rewarding, but possible only with small kayaks during periods of adequate river\u00a0flow, usually in spring. The twisty, 5.5 mile section of river from the Bowers\u00a0Road parking lot downstream to Shemak Road is wild in nature, offering\u00a0wonderful Driftless Area scenery and excellent trout fishing.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n

Any fees?:\u00a0<\/span><\/span>No, it’s free!<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n

Accessible?:<\/span><\/span>\u00a0<\/span>No<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n

Dog Friendly?:<\/span><\/span>\u00a0<\/span>Yes<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

More Info:\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

https:\/\/dnr.wi.gov\/topic\/Lands\/naturalareas\/index.asp?SNA=262<\/u><\/span><\/a><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/section>\n\t\t\t\t

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Wyalusing State Park<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n

Take U.S. 18 south from Prairie du Chien; turn right on County Highway C\nto County Highway X. Turn right on X and follow it to the park.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\nSituated above the confluence of the Wisconsin and Mississippi Rivers, the area that is now Wyalusing State Park was once a neutral ground where at least 14 Native American tribes lived or visited to trade. The 500-foot river bluffs have changed little since the tribes walked these lands. The openings of several small caves and rock shelters mark the bluffs, which are built of layers of dolomite, shale, and sandstone. The geologic sequence at Wyalusing is representative of the lower Ordovician carbonate\/clastic sequence of the Driftless Area, from the contact with the underlying Jordan Sandstone at about river level through the Prairie du Chien dolostones up to the overlying St Peter Sandstone. Most of the karst is within the Prairie du Chien but is poorly exposed, bar a few small depressions and dry valleys. The caves are at the carbonate-sandstone contacts, Big and Little Sand Caves at the base and Pictured Rock at the top of the dolostones.<\/span>\n

Any fees?:\u00a0<\/span><\/span>No (vehicle admission stickers are required)<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n

Accessible?:<\/span><\/span>\u00a0<\/span>Some scenery is accessible, many trails are not\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n

Dog Friendly?:<\/span><\/span>\u00a0<\/span>Yes<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Time to Complete:<\/span><\/span>\u00a0<\/span>3\/4 hour (to Small Cave from the park road), 1 hour (to Big Cave from Twin Valley Campground)<\/span>\n<\/span><\/p>\n\n

\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n

Distance:<\/span><\/span>\u00a0<\/span>Less than 1 Mile – 2 Miles<\/span><\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n

Difficulty:\u00a0<\/span><\/span>Easy\/Severe (Several trails are steep)<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

More Info:\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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Bluff Trail<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n

Take U.S. 18 south from Prairie du Chien; turn right on County Highway C to County Highway X. Turn right on X and follow it to the park.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

The hike to Treasure Cave begins at Point Lookout and heads down the Bluff Trail and through the keyhole\u2014a narrow passage in a limestone outcrop. The small cave offers passage to a rock-framed window looking out on the Wisconsin River and two small rooms.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Any fees?:\u00a0<\/span><\/span>No (Vehicle Admission Sticker required)<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n

Accessible?:<\/span><\/span>\u00a0<\/span>No<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n

Dog Friendly?:<\/span><\/span>\u00a0<\/span>Yes<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Distance:<\/span><\/span>\u00a0<\/span>0.9 Miles<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n

Difficulty:\u00a0<\/span><\/span>Easy<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

More Info:\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

http:\/\/dnr.wi.gov\/topic\/parks\/name\/wyalusing\/<\/u><\/span><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/section>\n\t\t\t\t

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Sand Cave Trail<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n

Take U.S. 18 south from Prairie du Chien; turn right on County Highway C to County Highway X. Turn right on X and follow it to the park.<\/span><\/p>\n\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n

Big Sand Cave, Little Sand Cave, and Pictured Rock Cave are sandstone rock shelters . Little Sand Cave and Pictured Rock Cave feature small waterfalls that feed streams at their base.<\/span> Black Thunder Point, located between the two caves offers an excellent view of the Wisconsin River.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Accessible?:<\/span><\/span>\u00a0<\/span>No<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n

Dog Friendly?:<\/span><\/span>\u00a0<\/span>Yes<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Distance:<\/span><\/span>\u00a0<\/span>1.6 Miles<\/span>\n<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n

Difficulty:\u00a0<\/span><\/span>Easy\/Moderate<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

More Info:\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

http:\/\/dnr.wi.gov\/topic\/parks\/name\/wyalusing\/<\/u><\/span><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/section>\n\t\t\t\t

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Mississippi Ridge Trail<\/span><\/span><\/p>

Take U.S. 18 south from Prairie du Chien; turn right on County Highway C to County Highway X. Turn right on X and follow it to the park.<\/span><\/p>

\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/p>

Mississippi Ridge trail starts at Homestead Picnic Shelter (parking available), crosses Cathedral Tree Drive and runs parallel to it until Henneger Point Picnic Area. The trail follows the bluff along the Mississippi River, ending at Henneger Point Picnic Area. An excellent view of the Mississippi River is available from Henneger Point. Bicyclists are welcome to bike the return trip back to Homestead Picnic Shelter via Cathedral Tree Drive.<\/span><\/p>

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>

Any fees?:\u00a0<\/span><\/span>No (vehicle admission stickers are required)<\/span>
<\/span><\/span><\/p>

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>

Accessible?:<\/span><\/span>\u00a0<\/span>No<\/span><\/p>

\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/p>

Dog Friendly?:<\/span><\/span>\u00a0<\/span>Yes<\/span><\/p>

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>

Distance:<\/span><\/span>\u00a0<\/span>1.8 Miles<\/span>
<\/span><\/p>

\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/p>

Difficulty:\u00a0<\/span><\/span>Easy\/Severe (Several trails are steep)<\/span><\/p>

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>

More Info:\u00a0<\/span><\/p>

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Elephant Trunk Rock<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n

Hwy 58, Neptune, WI<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n

From US 14 take Hwy 58 north around seven miles. The Rock is on Hwy 58, about 1.5 miles north of the right-hand intersection of Hwy N, between Devine Lane and Jaquish Hollow Rd.<\/span><\/p>\n

Coordinates:<\/span><\/span>\u00a043.36527787226514\u00b0 N, -90.26560919118123\u00b0 W<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Elephant Trunk Rock is located in a valley carved out by Willow Creek and its tributaries and is one of the most well-known rock outcroppings in the county. Elephant Trunk Rock was not always known by that name. An article in the \u201dRichland Democrat\u201d from 1935 quotes the following told by a pioneer settler of the county that in a very early date it was called \u201cThe Devils Hitching Post.\u201d \u201cChildren were told that when there was a death in the community, a man on a black horse tied his mount there and wandered over the hills and valleys, bringing the death angel. Tradition says a man once saw the horse tied there and approached to investigate. The horse seemed friendly and the stranger advanced to inspect and admire the animal, when a man appeared above on the cliff and the horse turned and kicked, striking the investigator and bringing death.<\/span><\/p>\n

Such is the story told by mothers of the Devil\u2019s Hitching Post some eighty years ago to their children.\u201d Elephant Trunk Rock\u2019s existence was threatened in 1923 when the owner, Peter Ruetten, was taken to court to argue the rock should be blasted out of the way in order to straighten the road, then a rutted, winding dirt road. A newspaper report of that time stated the argument was that \u201cthe shortest distance between two points is a straight line, and that all roads should be that shortest distance.\u201d The article went on to say, \u201cTransforming the crooked, sandy road, which curved between and around the interfering rocks, into a straight well-graded turnpike, was an accomplishment everyone approved until Elephant Trunk Rock was approached. When it became known it was the next obstacle to be removed, all residents in the vicinity rose against the plan. However, it was reported \u201cBlasting was begun. A portion of the rock crumbled before agitation become so violent that the blasting was ordered to be delayed.\u201d The article continued, \u201c At last so much pressure was brought to bear that it was carried to the state highway commission which ordered Elephant Trunk Rock should remain. A sign bearing the name of the rock was planted near its base.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Any fees?:\u00a0<\/span><\/span>No, it’s free!<\/span><\/p>\n

Accessible?:<\/span><\/span>\u00a0<\/span>Can be seen from the pullout.<\/span><\/p>\n

Dog Friendly?:<\/span><\/span>\u00a0<\/span>Yes<\/span><\/p>\n

More Info:\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

http:\/\/dnr.wi.gov\/topic\/parks\/name\/wyalusing\/<\/a><\/u><\/p>\n

https:\/\/ci.richland-center.wi.us\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/03\/Elephant-Trunk-Rock.pdf<\/u><\/span><\/a><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/section>\n\t\t\t\t

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Lower Wisconsin River Road – Scenic Byway 60<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n

(From Ithaca) Take\u00a0Highway 58 south 4 miles to Highway 14 south. Turn south (left) on Highway 14\u00a0for 6 miles to Scenic Byway 60 and turn right. At this point the Scenic Byway\u00a060 follows the graceful curves of the Lower Wisconsin River.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n

From either Wyalusing State\u00a0Park or Elephant Rock in Ithaca, Wisconsin, the Lower Wisconsin Scenic Byway\u00a0connects the two sites but are separated by 62 miles of Driftless Area scenery<\/span>.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Any fees?:\u00a0<\/span><\/span>No, it’s free!<\/span>\n<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Accessible?:<\/span><\/span>\u00a0<\/span>Yes<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n

Dog Friendly?:<\/span><\/span>\u00a0<\/span>Yes<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

More Info:\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

https:\/\/sites.google.com\/site\/lowerwisconsinriverroad\/<\/span><\/u><\/p>\n

https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/Scenic60<\/u><\/p>\n

http:\/\/www.scenic60.com<\/u><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/section>\n\t\t\t\t

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Belmont Mound State Park<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n

Belmont Mound State Park, N Co Rd G,\u00a0Platteville, WI 53818<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Belmont Mound is one of\u00a0several Driftless Area remnants that retain a top geologic layer of Niagara\u00a0dolomite (limestone), along with Blue and Platte mounds. This dolomite formed\u00a0during the Silurian Period some 430 million years ago. Beneath the Niagara\u00a0dolomite lay bands of shale, limestone, and sandstone formed during the\u00a0Ordovician Period some 470 million years ago; below these layers are blankets\u00a0dating to the Cambrian and pre-Cambrian periods more than 500 million years ago.\u00a0At the bottom is granite bedrock. The sandstones and limestones were deposited\u00a0as inland seas covered and retreated from this region over the millennia.\u00a0During the last 400 million years, erosion has carved this area, removing most\u00a0rock layers, except for these mound remnants, still capped with the hard\u00a0Niagara dolomite. The Niagara dolomite extends along the escarpment in eastern\u00a0Wisconsin northeast to Niagara Falls. Formations on the north slope of the\u00a0mound include a 40-foot-wide \u201ctabletop,\u201d about 40 feet across and a \u201ccave\u201d\u00a0passage through a large boulder. There is an old limestone quarry on the south\u00a0side of the mound and the remains of likely kilns near the parking area.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

The trails go around\u00a0the base of the mound, through the center of the park and to a loop in the\u00a0northeast corner of the park. The trails are mostly for hiking, but off-road\u00a0bikes may also use the trails. The observation tower is closed.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Any fees?:\u00a0<\/span><\/span>No (vehicle admission stickers are required)<\/span>\n<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Accessible?:<\/span><\/span>\u00a0<\/span>Yes<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n

Dog Friendly?:<\/span><\/span>\u00a0<\/span>Yes<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Distance:<\/span><\/span>\u00a0<\/span>1 Mile (roundtrip)<\/span>\n<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n

Time to Complete:<\/span><\/span>\u00a0<\/span>1\/2 hour<\/span>\n<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Difficulty:\u00a0<\/span><\/span>Easy<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

More Info:\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

https:\/\/dnr.wisconsin.gov\/topic\/parks\/belmont<\/u><\/span><\/a><\/span><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/section>\n\t\t\t\t

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The Mining and Rollo Jamison Museum<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n

405 East\u00a0Main Street, P.O. Box 780 Platteville, WI 53818<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Exhibits in the Mining Museum building trace the development of lead and zinc mining in the Upper Mississippi Valley Lead and Zinc District from its beginnings in the 1820s until active mining ceased in 1979. Through dioramas, photographs, maps, and artifacts you will learn how lead and zinc were mined and processed into useful items of everyday life.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Exhibits in the Rollo Jamison galleries explore the personal collection of Rollo Jamison. Rollo Jamison, born in Beetown, Wisconsin in 1899, started collecting arrowheads on his family\u2019s farm. This was just the beginning of his life-long interest in history and the objects used by people in their everyday lives. Rollo\u2019s collection grew over the years, representing the unique history of Southwest Wisconsin. Your tour will take you back to the turn of the 20th century for a look at what life was like in Platteville and southwest Wisconsin.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

More than 150 years ago Lorenzo Bevans struck it rich just a few yards from the museum back door. As you walk down the 90-step incline into the 1845 Bevans Mine, your senses will be alive as the temperature and humidity levels change. A tour of the mine takes you through over 100 years of local lead and zinc mining history. A visit to the headframe shows how ore was hoisted to the surface and hand-sorted.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Any fees?:\u00a0<\/span><\/span>Yes (tour fees apply)<\/span>\n<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Accessible?:<\/span><\/span>\u00a0<\/span>No<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n

Dog Friendly?:<\/span><\/span>\u00a0<\/span>No<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

More Info:\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

https:\/\/mining.jamison.museum\/<\/u><\/span><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/section>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

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Preview Only If you would like to explore what is in individual counties, please select your county of … Continue readingWisconsin Discovery Areas<\/span><\/span><\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":0,"parent":0,"menu_order":5,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"footnotes":""},"class_list":["post-262","page","type-page","status-publish","hentry"],"yoast_head":"\nWisconsin Discovery Areas - Driftless Karst Trail<\/title>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/driftless.caves.org\/index.php\/wi-discovery-areas\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"Wisconsin Discovery Areas - Driftless Karst Trail\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"Previous Next Preview Only If you would like to select a site directly and explore what else is in this state, please select a location marker above. 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