Wisconsin's Driftless Area Is Home To Beautiful Landscapes, Farms, & Scenic Fall Foliage

Besides globally known destinations such as Wisconsin Dells, popular for its roller coasters, or the Apostle Islands, Wisconsin is home to many attractions great for outdoor enthusiasts. A case in point is the Driftless Area. Imagine driving past wide river valleys, limestone bluffs, and rolling hills, or exploring farms that stretch across valleys and trout streams. You will love taking in the beauty of midwestern fall foliage at this underrated destination, especially the vibrant hues of gold and red. The area is a 24,000-square-mile region spanning southwestern Wisconsin, southeastern Minnesota, northeastern Iowa, and northwestern Illinois. Unlike its surrounding areas, this region remained untouched by glaciers during the last Ice Age and has retained its rugged terrain, with steep valleys and winding rivers.

You can get to the Driftless area by driving from Madison, about 105 miles east, or Milwaukee, which is about 180 miles east. For those coming from afar or abroad, the closest major airports are La Crosse Regional Airport, about 70 miles north of the Driftless Area, or Rochester International Airport, situated around 110 miles northwest. From the airport, you can take a taxi or rent a car and drive through the scenic roads that connect small towns and rural landscapes. When the last glacier covered Wisconsin, it smoothed the landscape and filled up valleys. The Driftless Area did not suffer this fate, leaving it with the hilly landscape and rugged beauty.

The Driftless Area provides several vantage points for enjoying some of the most beautiful landscapes in the world. Located along the Kickapoo River is Wildcat Mountain State Park, popular for its hardwood forests, sandstone bluffs, and winding trails. For the best views of the park's landscapes, go to the observation area facing the Kickapoo Valley. Fall is the best time to visit Wildcat Mountain State Park if you want to experience the red and golden colors of the season. In October, the landscapes transform into colors of scarlet maples, golden oaks, and ridgelines offering panoramic valley views.

Another favorite spot in the Driftless Area is the Kickapoo Valley Reserve, which stretches over 8,500 acres of prairies, forests, and the Kickapoo River. The best way to discover the natural beauty of the region is by kayaking through the river. The limestone bluffs and captivating landscape make kayaking down the river an adventure. The hills and valleys in the Driftless Area are fertile, with farms growing a variety of foods. Add a visit to Luna Valley Farm to your itinerary. This organic farm rears livestock for meat. For a more enjoyable trip, plan your visit on weekends during pizza nights for a chance to taste its sumptuous wood-fired pizza. Get a taste of the delicious apples grown in the Peake Orchards. This family-run farm allows you to pick apples during the harvest season.

If you love art, the Driftless Area is about 42 miles southeast of Decorah, Iowa, one of the best U.S. cities for art lovers to visit. This town has cultural attractions, such as the Agora Arts, which highlights various artworks. Alternatively, stop by Viroqua, Wisconsin, which is a favorite spot for artists. Get a chance to discover the arts scene in Driftless Folk School, which provides classes in woodworking, arts and crafts, and organic agriculture. You can get souvenirs and other merchandise from the gift shop.

Fishing buffs can visit Lake Meyer Park, a few minutes from Decorah. Bring your fishing gear, and head to the fishing docks on the lake to catch bluegill, bass, and northern pike. When it is time for refueling, head back to town and grab a bite at La Rana Bistro, along Washington Street. On the menu, you will find treats like Mark's house-made soup, salads, seared salmon, and different types of sandwiches. Another town worth visiting in the Driftless Area is Dubuque, Iowa, a cultural destination with beautiful landscapes. You can discover the cobblestone streets in the town's historic district or try the Fourth Street Elevator, the steepest railroad. Since the town sits along the Mississippi River, you can also soak in the riverfront views.