Audubon Photos Courtesy of Dan Jackson &
the Coulee Region Audubon Society
Photo Courtesy the City of Sparta, WI
Click on the Pictures for a Larger View
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The
is just one of the many wonderful reasons guests love to spend their vacations and weekend getaways at Franklin Victorian Bed & Breakfast.
Located in the heart of the scenic Hidden Valleys region of Southwest Wisconsin, Sparta offers visitors a myriad of activities and attractions, including kayaking and canoeing on the
Kickapoo River
, Amish country tours, golfing, horseback riding, and, of course, biking!
Be sure to check out our current specials to combine your favorite activities, such as biking on the
Elroy Sparta Bike Trail
, with a great value in lodging at Franklin Victorian!
Bike Trails & Backroads
Elroy-Sparta State Bike Trail
http://www.bikesparta.com
Wisconsin: No. 2 Bicycle Friendly State
The League of American Bicyclists named Wisconsin the No. 2 "Bicycle Friendly State" in 2010 for its commitment to bicycling through the legislation, infrastructure, education and an all-around bike-loving culture. Take the family to explore the grand-daddy of all rail-trails, the Elroy-Sparta State Trail.
Elroy-Sparta State Trail and was opened in 1967. This is the granddaddy of them all! The Elroy-Sparta Trail was the first rails-to-trails conversion in the country, and it is perennially one of the most popular bicycling destinations in the state. Located in the driftless areas, one of the most scenic parts of Wisconsin, the trail is one of the few flat surfaces in a land of narrow valleys and steep wooded bluffs.
Three tunnels are a big part of the trail's appeal. The longest, between Sparta and Norwalk, is more than three-quarters of a mile long. Walking through the tunnels, (you can't ride them), is an adventure in itself. The small towns en-route all have a bike-friendly atmosphere; after all, the trail has made them famous. Bike trails are surfaced with fine limestone or similar materials. There is no charge for snowmobiling or hiking. Trail passes are required for bikers 16 years of age or older. For more information, visit www.bikesparta.com.
World's Largest Talking Ben Bikin'
Located in Sparta at the corner of S. Water and E. Wisconsin St. This special Ben Bikin' statue is a landmark of Sparta and can be seen by bike or car. He will talk about many exciting area attractions.
PEOPLE & BICYCLE SHUTTLE SERVICE AVAILABLE - We will shuttle your bicycles and YOU and drop you off at Elroy, Kendall, Wilton, or Norwalk all along the Elroy-Sparta State Bike Trail! Then you can enjoy the whole bike trail and wonderful tunnels! Set up with innkeepers prior to stay for shuttle service.
The Franklin Victorian B&B offers secure inside bike storage, and we have bike passes for purchase. We are about one mile from the trail. Ask about Bike Shuttle Service available at the Franklin Victorian B&B.
Safety tip: Flashlights, windbreakers, and caps recommended when walking bikes through the tunnels.
See our Weather page for your forecast
La Crosse River State Trail
The 21.5 mile La Crosse River State Trail follows the winding route of the La Crosse River, taking bicyclists from Onalaska to Sparta. As you pedal the La Crosse River State Trail, you'll enjoy bridges over crystal clear trout streams and picturesque farms. Like the Great River State Trail, the La Crosse River State Trail has a smooth surface that can accommodate both road bicycles and mountain bikes. Part of the trail even runs parallel to an active rail line.
Find more information at the La Crosse River State Trail Web site.
Recreationalists have approximately 75 miles of biking and hiking between Elroy and Perrot State Park near Trempealeau.
Great River State Trail
Take a pedal down the Mississippi River on the Great River State Trail. Enjoy 24 miles of the most beautiful scenery in the Midwest. The trail traverses along 18 different waterways, crosses over the Black River on a 287-foot former railroad trestle, and follows Lake Onalaska and the BNSF railway. From its trailhead in Onalaska, all the way to Trempealeau, the Great River State Trail is one beautiful landscape after another and is perfect for any type of bicycle. Cross-country skiing starts in Onalaska and continues the entire length of the trail. Snowmobiling is permitted only in designated areas.
On-Road Biking
On-Road Riding Bike Tours - Roadies! Discover what the locals have known for years; the Wisconsin dairy roads make for hundreds (yes, hundreds) of options for road riding in every direction. Sparta "Road Tours Maps" available - Ridgeville Ramble 36.9 miles, Booney Biken 19.1 miles, Up North 26.3 miles of bike friendly tours. They will take you down country lanes where wildflowers grow to the edge of the pavement; through forest that canopy the roadway; perfect for relaxing biking.
We also have the "Wisconsin State Bike Map" here at the B&B for more bike-friendly roadways.
Golfing & Disc Golfing
Sparta & Area Golf Course
Sparta's River Run Golf Course |
Sparta's River Run Golf Course is just a few blocks from the B&B. 18 Hole Facility, Open to the Public. Par 72. Our Web site is http://www.riverrunsparta.com
This picturesque golf course has been given a three-star rating by Golf Digest; making it the most popular in the area.
They would also like to invite you to stop at the course bar & grill for lunch or dinner. They also offer a full service bar.
Located at 1210 E. Montgomery Street.
Call (608) 269-3022
View Golf Courses, Public Golf Courses, Top Golf Courses near Sparta, WI in a larger map
Other Surrounding Area Golf Courses Click the above Google Map
Coulee Golf Bowl 608-781-1111
Drugan's Castle Mound 608-526-3225
Fox Hollow Golf Course 608-786-4653
Walsh Golf Center 608-781-0838
Forest Hills Golf Course 608-779-4653 www.fhlax.com
Maple Grove Country Club 608-786-1800,www.maplegrovecc.com
Irish Hill Golf (608) 788-6904
Viroqua Hills Golf Course (608) 637-7615
Pine Creek Golf Course (507) 895-2410
Trempealeau Mountain Golf Club (608) 534-7417
Disc Golf Course
Pettibone Park - La Crosse
An eighteen hole disc golf course has been built for your use and enjoyment with the help of Gundersen Lutheran Medical Center. Special disc can be rented in groups of four with a small deposit, or bring your own equipment. Check it out! Call the La Crosse Park & Rec for details at 608-789-7533
WIS-Birding & Nature Trail
Great Wisconsin Birding and Nature Trail
Audubon Photos Courtesy of Dan Jackson &
the Coulee Region Audubon Society |
The Great Wisconsin Birding and Nature Trail is a mapped auto trail that reaches into every area of the state. Full-color viewing guides with maps and descriptions of every site leads the nature traveler to warblers, shorebirds, eagles, loons, cranes and all manner of mammals found in some of the states premier wildlife venues.
A. Sparta is really central to some great places. Those include: Fort McCoy, Necedah National Wildlife Refuge, Sandhill Wildlife Area (cranberry country), Upper Mississippi River, etc. If you come for a weekend of birding you could see a lot of different habitats, etc.
B. We have some really good megafauna or highlight birds/wildllife. Those include, Tundra Swans in late October/November, Trumpeter Swans nesting in the cranberry bogs, loons in the same areas, Whooping Cranes at Necedah, Canvasback migration on the Miss (75% of the world's population), Sandhill Crane staging area at Sandhill Wildlife Area (5-10,000 birds flying over your head at night!!!), wonderful days for migration along the riverways in spring/fall, rare butterflies/dragonflies around Necedah (for the insect lovers), wolf packs, deer, future elk restoration area, etc. etc. etc.
We really think that this part of the state is undermarketed to the average birder and has a lot to offer. Focus on May (migration - warblers, songbirds), June (nesting birds in great habitats around Necedah), September - migration, whooping crane tours, etc., Late October/November for the Upper Miss migration.
~ Bird pictures on left margin- Chickadees, Mute Swan & Waxwing.
~ Main birding text- Vireos, Bald Eagle, Barred Owl.
Heritage, Leisure, Arts & More!
Norskedalen - The Norwegian Valley - Nature & Heritage Center.
Norskedalen (which means the Norwegian Valley), is a nature and heritage center dedicated to preserving, interpreting and sharing the natural environment and cultural heritage of the area surrounding Coon Valley in southwest Wisconsin.
2012 EVENT SCHEDULE
Quilt Corner - Located in Sparta
A friendly place for all your quilting needs, stop in and meet Connie and Crystal.
*Specialize in quality cotton fabrics, notions, patterns and books.
*Grace Quilter Machine
*Large selection of Thimbleberries & Kansas Troubles fabrics.
*100% Hand Dyed Wool & Felted Wool
*Classes, Clubs, & much, much more!
Located 2 blocks from the B&B, 219 N. Water,
608-269-1083.
Fort Mc Coy, Sparta, WI
Phone:(608) 388-2407
Have you ever dreamed of touring an army base but were afraid of recruiters? Have you ever wanted to relive those Army days without the KP? How about having your picture taken next to a tank? Take a guided tour of Fort Mc Coy! A driving tour and History Brochure is available by contacting Public Affairs office at telephone number listed above.
Photo Credit: Fort McCoy
Wildwoman's Vintage Downtown Sparta
Fancy, funky and fabulous! Vintage-Retro-New Apparel & Accessories and so much more! Surround yourself with glamour, color & whimsy. wildwomans@centurytel.net. Phone for hours or appointment.
Shrine of Our Lady of Guadalupe
The Shrine of Our Lady of Guadalupe is nestled alongside a Wisconsin bluff in La Crosse, Wisconsin. It is a place of prayer, meditation and pilgrimage. A full-service Pilgrim Center provides a restaurant and religious gift shop sure to welcome you away from the busy world. An orientation film is available, Promise Yourself; Visit the Shrine.
Open Daily from 9-4 p.m. 608-782-5440.
http://www.guadalupeshring.org
Horseback Riding Facilities
Horse Back Riding at Redrock Trail Rides
Redrock is on a 365-acre working dairy farm that has been in the Sullivan family for 100 years. There are 12 miles of ridge & valley trails to ride well broke horses and enjoy breath taking scenery and abundant wildlife.
Appointments are required!
Morning rides begin at 9:00,9:30, 10:00 or 10:30. First reservation chooses the level of trail and time of morning ride.
Rides may also be scheduled for 1:00, 3:00 or 5:00. 7:00 pm. rides need to be scheduled by noon.
Redrock Trail Rides is just five miles from Norwalk on the Elroy-Sparta bike trail. Trail rides are offered from mid May through October.
Call Kathie for pricing, reservations, information and directions.(608) 823-7865
Canoe, Kayak & Hike
Ellistone Canoe/kayak Rental & Shuttle Service
Canoe the beautiful LaCrosse river from Sparta to Rockland Wisconsin. This canoe or kayak trip will take you through one of the most scenic stretches of the LaCrosse river as it winds its way through historic Monroe and LaCrosse Counties.
Trips can begin from either of two seperate locations in Sparta (Fishermans Park, or Amundson Park). Three seperate trip options ranging from 2-5 hours on average. The three and five hour trips end with your final destination at Rockland boat landing, just minutes from downtown Rockland.
Ellistone Canoe Rentals LLC
Rockland, Wisconsin
608-343-5696 or 608-487-5114
www.ellistonecanoerental.com
Ontario, WI / Kickapoo River Canoeing
A paradise for canoeists and outdoor enthusiasts because of its easy access, laid-back pace, and beautiful scenery. Renting out canoes for the scenic trip down the Kickapoo River has become a very popular weekend destination. Photo credits:Titanic Canoe Rental
LaFarge, WI / Kickapoo Valley Reserve has been a favorite among canoeists for many years. The word "Kickapoo" is from the Native American Algonquian language meaning "he who goes here, then there." Translated locally as the "crooked river," it certainly lives up to its name, meandering its way along a 125-mile course that covers only 65 miles "as the crow flies." The shallow, gently flowing river is tame enough for the beginner but challenging enough for the advanced paddler, as well. The upper stretch of the river from Ontario to La Farge is arguably the most beautiful, if not the most accessible for the public to enjoy.
The Reserve offers a variety of recreation and canoeing. http://www.kvr.state.wi.us
Area River Canoeing & Kayaking Adventures
We invite you to enjoy the wildlife and the serenity of The Kickapoo River. Paddle through picturesque marches and hardwood swamps. Watch for muskrats, waterfowl, deer & beaver. Fish for northern pike, walleye, bass, & pan fish. Enjoy a swim or picnic anywhere along the way. The current is steady and the bottom is sandy. For more information www.bikesparta.com
Wildcat Mountain State Park
On a steep ridge overlooking the scenic Kickapoo River Valley, Wildcat Mountain State Park offers hiking trails with spectacular views and horseback riding. Canoe the Kickapoo River in your own canoe or rent one in Ontario.
The park's 3,603 acres, mostly wooded, contain 25.8 miles of trails including...
25.8 miles of hiking trails
17.5 miles of trails for snowshoeing
15.0 miles of horse trails
7.0 miles of cross-country ski trails
1.3 miles of interpretive nature trail
0.4 miles of trail accessible for people with disabilities
Wildcat Mountain has a nature center and interpretive program, picnic facilities, and opportunities for bird and wildlife watching and fishing. For more information: 608-337-4775, http://kvr.state.wi.us, or http://www.dnr.state.wi.us
**Calling ahead for canoeing reservations is recommended for weekend trips.
Titanic Canoe Rental - 608-337-4551 Our guests are very happy with their service. Please note they do not take credit cards, cash and checks accepted.
Black River Express Canoe Rental - 608-488-7017
Mr. Duck Canoe Rental - 608-337-4711
Drifty's Canoe Rental - 608-337-4288
Kickapoo Yacht Club - which is half way between Rockton and LaFarge on Highway 131. We rent canoes 7 days a week. We provide shuttle service, paddles, jackets, and friendly service and guidance for our customers. Our Web site is http://www.kikcapooyachtclub.com, and our contact numbers are 608-625-4395 and 608-625-2071 for more information or reservations. We do provide shuttle service for those with their own canoes, and we do accept credit cards. Email reservations can be made from our Web site.
Black River Express Canoe & Kayak Rentals
Enjoy a glorious day of canoeing or kayaking on the Black River. The many sandbars along the way will add fun and relaxation to your trip! Shuttles to and from landing included with rental fees.
Located at 301 S. Washington St, Melrose, WI 54642. Corner of US Hwy 108 & 54 (608) 488-7017 call us today to make your reservation.
Amish & Tours
The Innkeepers will be happy to help in planning a local itinerary for you.
Amish Gift Shops & Tour Service
Down A Country Road - Cashton, Wisconsin
Set deep in the heart of southwestern Wisconsin you will find a serene spot nestled in the valley 2 miles east of Cashton, along State hwy 33. Set amongst the gorgeous rolling country side, the Kuderer farm is home to the Village Shops at Down A Country Road.
The Village Shops include "The Amish Shop", "The Little Red Shed", "Emma's Kitchen" & "Country Corner Ice Cream Shoppe".
Down A Country Road will take you back in time to a quieter, simpler way of life.
 As you visit the Kuderer farm, you will sense the quiet tranquility of a day in the country. Chuck and Kathy, along with their children, Jenny, Jason, Jeremy and Janessa, a non-Amish family, have established a special friendship with many of the Old Order Amish families that surround the Cashton area. The Gift shops at Down A Country Road reflect that friendship as the Kuderer's work with approximately 45 Amish families that bring their products to sell in the gift shops built on the Kuderer farm by the Amish. You will find a wide variety of Amish-made furniture, quilts, rugs, baskets, homemade candies, jams and jellies, maple syrup, honey products and so much more! Tours scheduled May through October, advance reservations requested. Call Kathy at 608-654-5318 or see their website www.downacountyroadamish.com for more information.
The Cutlural Exchange Amish Furniture
Starting with Amish Furniture, Affordably Priced Handcrafted Furniture.
Robin Malayter
N5140 Greens Coulee Rd.
Onalaska, WI 54650
Malayter@yahoo.com
608-783-3026
Movie Theater
Sparta Cinemas 6 - Sparta
http://www.spartacinema6.com
1010 Maple Avenue, Sparta, WI 54656 | (608)269-7469 | Screens: 6 | 1 Mile Away
shows, showtimes, use website.
Museums & Cranberry Discovery/Marsh Tours
Deke Slayton Memorial Space & Bicycle Museum
The museum was founded in March 1999 by a core group of residents who wanted to honor Deke Slayton's memory in his hometown of Sparta, WI and to commemorate the county's rich bicycling heritage.
The museum is a progression from the earliest patented bicycles to the Wright brothers bicycle shop, the Wright Flyer and into Outer Space. All ages love the bicycle museum and space suit display!
For more information visit http://www.DekeSlaytonMuseum.com.
Monroe County Local History Room & Museum
The Monroe County Local History Room & Museum tells the story of men and women who lived and worked in Monroe County through interactive exhibits and engaging displays. Photographs, documents, memorabilia and historic artifacts record Monroe County life in all its periods. The Research Room welcomes all those interested in genealogy and the history of Monroe County.
Its documentary archive is the most complete source of county historical information in the area. Free admission. 200 West Main St.
Phone: (608) 269-8680
Photo Credit: Bessie Kmiecik
Wisconsin Cranberry Discovery Center
Catch the aroma of cranberries...at the Wisconsin Cranberry Discovery Center as you see, touch and taste Wisconsin's No. 1 fruit crop.
The Discovery Center's, 4,800-square foot exhibit hall details the history of the state's cranberry industry, from the days when Native Americans gathered fruit in the wild to today's unique growing and harvesting methods.
 Come visit....
204 Main Street, PO Box 187
Warrens, WI 54666 (608) 378-4878
http://www.discovercranberries.com
Cranberry Marsh Tours & Harvest Day
Arpin Cranberry Company of Warrens, WI. Owners Bob and Jacki Lundt have recently begun offering tours of their marsh to leisure travelers.
Click here to download a brochure WE ALSO HAVE A DRIVING MAP HERE AT B&B.
608-387-0466
Glacial Lake Cranberries, Wisconsin Rapids, are who offer tours to leisure travelers.
Click here to download a brochure
608-887-4164
Wetherby Cranberry Company, Warrens, also offer tours to motor coach groups. In addition, the Wetherby marsh holds a public harvest day annually on the first Saturday of October.
Click here to download a brochure
The Wegner Grotto: A Grassroots Art Environment
The Paul and Matilda Wegner Grotto - a grassroots art environment - is located near Cataract, north of Sparta. The Grotto is a fantastic sculpture garden of concrete structures decorated with thousands of glittering glass shards. The Grotto is located off Hwy. 27, west on Hwy. 71. Free admission (but donations are appreciated). Open Memorial Day through Labor Day with closing ceremonies at 6:00 p.m. on the Monday of Labor Day. Photo Credit: Bessie Kmiecik
Festivals
Warrens Cranberry Festival
The Largest Cranberry Festival in the World! 1250 Booths and More Than Three Miles of Booth
Frontage. Come join the fun! Cranberry Tours Sat. Only; Parade Sunday; Arts & Crafts, flea Market, Farm Market, Ethnic Foods, Cranberry Products All Weekend. 100,000 attendees. We recommend making lodging reservations months ahead of time. Shuttle Buses are available and the way to Go!
Make your reservation Now!
September 28-29-30, 2012 - September 27-28-29, 2013 7 a.m. to Dusk
Web site features an interactive information center, recipes, contest rules, festival history, maps and much more! For more information 608-378-4200 http://www.cranfest.com
Salons & Spas
A Healthy Touch
Massage Therapy & Bodywork, LLC
110 E. Main St
Sparta, WI 54656 / 608-269-1321
e-mail: ahealthytouch@centurytel.net
Offering: Massage Therapy, Aesthetics, Nail Technician
- Swedish Massage
- Trigger Point
- Neuromuscular Therapy
- Deep Tissue Massage
- & More!
Janell, Sally, Heidi & Brooke would be glad to help you.
Shades Body Studio etc.
3 types of Tanning, Aqua Massage, Body Wraps, Skin care & More! Plaza 16 West - 622 Industrial Dr.
Sparta 608.269.8282
email: shadesbodystudio@centurytel.net
Metropolitan Salon & Day Spa
600 North Third Street, Suite 103,
Sampson Galleria
La Crosse, WI 54601 608.784.6441
http://www.metropolitanspa.com
The Ultimate Salon
An AVEDA Concept Salon
720 Cass St
La Crosse, WI 608.782.8720
http://www.theultimatesalon.com
Sue Kolves Salon & Day Spa
230 Main
Onalaska, WI 608.784.2363
Explore La Crosse
PARK CLOSED FOR 2011 Grandad Bluff is getting a major makeover.
Grandad Bluff, which can be seen off of Losey Blvd. and Main ST on La Crosse's east side, ROAD IS NOW OPEN,is the area's tallest bluff at 540 ft. It is the site of a public park where one can view a panoramic vista of La Crosse, the Mississippi Rive and three states and it's open year round during park hours. The land was donated by the Joseph and Irene Hixon family in 1912. It has been voted one of the most scenic views.
Walking Tour Of The La Crosse Downtown Commercial Historic District
Self-guided Historic Walking Tour.
Maps available at the La Crosse Visitors Bureau, Chamber of Commerce, hotels, and various businesses. Tour map includes historic descriptions of 20 buildings in the District which are considered the most historic, architecturally and/or culturally significant to the area.
Hixon House In La Crosse
Restored to its turn of the century elegance in 2005, this National Historic Landmark, the Hixon House, represents an architectural & historic treasure.
Call 608-782-1980 for more information.
Tour season; May through October http://www.lchsweb.org
Historic Riverside Park, River Levee, and Riverwalk
Created by the world famous architect John Nolan, beautiful Riverside Park is located at the confluence of the 3 rivers, Mississippi, La Crosse & Black Rivers. View the paddlewheelers on the historic levee & enjoy a walk on the Riverwalk. At the park entrance see the historic marker where Nathan Myrick built the first cabin in La Crosse in 1842.
Myrick Hixon Eco-Park & La Crosse River Marsh Nature Center
Myrick Hixon EcoPark welcomes you to our world of environmental education, hiking, birding, prairie restoration, live indigenous animal exhibits, and many wonderful community events. Myrick Hixon EcoPark (MHEP) is a non-profit organization whose vision is to achieve community understanding of, and respect for nature, and to protect the environment for future generations.
Our mission is to create a unique destination with dynamic educational programming, interactive displays, and live animal exhibits that will advance the appreciation and conservation of our natural resources.
We are located at:
789 Myrick Park Dr
LaCrosse WI 54601
OPEN HOURS:
Monday-Friday 9:00-4:00 p.m.
Phone (608) 784-0303
http://www.mhecopark.org
Valleyview Mall in La Crosse/Onalaska
Just 20 minutes away. http://www.myvalleyview.com
More Things To Do
Grand National Tractor & Truck Pull
June 23-26, 2011
The Budweiser Dairyland Super Nationals in Tomah, WI began their 35th Annual Truck and Tractor Pull with a Pull on Thursday Night. Over the four days of pulling, we had 27 classes and 625 hooks. This was the first time in history we pulled on Thursday night and wrapped up with one show on Sunday. This gave the fans, pullers and workers some extra time before heading back to work on Monday. Once again the Fans and Pullers alike enjoyed the NTPA Jumbo LED scoreboard screen. AP Productions filmed the entire event again this year. It’s great to be able to watch the instant replays of the hooks. We also added an additional TV into the Puller Hospitality at the Starting Line so that the Pullers in line to hook could keep up with the Track action.
http://www.tomahtractorpull.com/
The Innkeepers will be happy to help in planning a local itinerary for you.
We have so many things to do and see we can not list them all on our website. I have highlighted a few of main interest but there is a lot more. Please contact us if there is an activity that interests you and you would like more information about.
THE LITTLE FALLS DOLL & RAILROAD
Located in two separate buildings, the Doll Museum contains hundreds of dolls from the 1800s to the present. The Railroad Museum displays many railroad items, a 1,000+ book library and a Milwaukee Steel Bay Window Caboose. There is a large picnic shelter with tables and grills, swings for the children and an outdoor train running on a very erratic schedule. Open from 1 April to 31 October. Noon-5 p.m. Closed Wednesdays. Admission $5, seniors $4.
http://www.raildoll.org
GREAT RIVER ROAD: The Great River Road in Wisconsin goes from Prescott south to Prairie Du Chien, Cassville, Tenneyson and the Illinois state border. Much of it is etched at the base of bluffs and adjacent to the river and is one of seven suggested American Drives to take according to Reader’s Digest.
http://www.wigreatriverroad.org
WILDWOMAN'S VINTAGE: IS NOW IN SPARTA! Antique-Vintage-Retro, NEW AND OLD. Located in historic movie theater building in downtown Sparta, WI. Apparel, accessories, hats, feathers, furs and more! An out of the Ordinary Experience. 608-435-6217
e-mail: wildwomans@centurytel.net for more info.
NASCAR Stock Car Auto Racing
Great Fun! Every Saturday Night in West Salem
608-786-1525 http://www.raildolllacrossesppedway.com
BURNSTAD'S EUROPEAN VILLAGE & CAFE - Located in Tomah, Wisconsin, at 701 E.Clifton St, a step inside Burnstad's European Village excites even the most worldly travelers. Amid the ambiance of authentic European architecture, brick walkways meander through a quaint collection of specialty clothing and gift shops.
Local Florists
Local Florists
Sparta Floral and Greenhouse 608-269-4141
The Greenery 608-269-2544
Cross Country Ski Trail Information
Cross Country Ski Trails
* Black River State Forest: At Millston, 27 miles. Groomed; has 24 miles of classic trail and 4 miles of skate trail. State park sticker required.
* Perrot State Park: At Trempuleau, 42 miles. Groomed; has 9 miles classic and 1.2 miles skate trail.
* Wildcat Mountain State Park: At Ontatio, 28 miles. Groomed; has 7 miles classic and 5 miles skate trails.
* Coulee Experimental State Forest: South of Bangor off WI 162 and Cty II, 20 miles. Both classic and skate trails, groomed by local club.
* Whitetail Ridge: At Ft. McCoy, 9 miles. Classic trails, groomed only with drag.
* River Run Golf Course: Sparta. No grooming. Open to skiing; break you won or follow local's self broken trails. Just a few blocks from the Franklin Victorian Bed and Breakfast.
Winter Activities
Whitetail Ridge...the place for winter fun!
Winter has arrived!
It’s time to dust off your skis and snowboards and head to Whitetail Ridge Ski Area. Don’t miss out on the chance to carve through the freshly groomed powder or zip down Fort McCoy’s tubing hill.
OPEN TO THE PUBLIC
Directions to Whitetail Ridge: Enter Fort McCoy through Gate 19 off Hwy 21 and follow the signs.http://www.mccoymwr.com 608-388-4498 or 608-388-3517.
 Mount La Crosse Ski Area: Downhill skiing and snowboarding, chair lifts, tows, races, rentals, instructions and runs for all ability levels, http://www.mtlacrosse.com,608-788-0044.
 Cross-Country Skiing & Snowshoeing - Five miles of trails wind through 300 acres of forest on Fort McCoy. The abundant wildlife often make an appearance along the beautiful trails. Equipment Rental is available at Whitetail Ridge/Fort McCoy. Wildcat Mountain State Park at Ontario, Trempealeau National Wildlife Refuge north of Trempealeau, Norskedalen at Coon Valley, are also wonderful places for cross-country skiing & snowshoeing.
 Snow Tubing - Is not just for Kids...Adults too can enjoy Two tubing hill! Sliding down the 800' long slope on a large inner tube is part of the thrills. Tubing area has its own tow rope so the ride up is just as fun!
All located in one of the most scenic areas of Fort McCoy in Sparta, Wisconsin.
For Information call the B&B or see http://www.mccoymwr.com 608-388-4498 or 608-388-3517
See our Weather page for your forecast
Red Ridge Ranch Sleigh Rides
Sleigh Rides- Dicount Coupons available with Stay at the Bed & Breakfast!
Red Ridge Ranch offers it all when it comes to riding. However many people think that all our activities stop during the winter.
Nothing could be further from the truth. We still offer trail rides through 250 acres of rolling farmland and wooded hills and during the winter
we offer sleigh rides (Sleigh rides: $15.00 per person. Reservation is required.)(Bring your Camera)
 We take pride in the fact that we are offering a quality ride on quality horses. Healthy well trained horses offer a safe, enjoyable ride to both the beginner and to the advanced rider. Our care for the animals in our stable is our main priority. A happy horse is a joy to ride. See nature and experience horseback riding at it's finest.
2 Miles East of Mauston, Wisconsin
on Hwy. 82
Open Year Around
608-847-2273
We have so many things to do and see we can not list them all on our Web site. I have highlighted a few activities and attractions of main interest, but there is a lot more. Please contact us if there is an activity that interests you and you would like more information about.
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