Hixon Forest Oak Trail (WI) Hike - A Perfect "Hot" Hike

Hixon's Oak Trail

Hixon Forest is a La Crosse blufflands park that offers multiple trails for any skill level and age. The majority of the trails are multi/use (hike/bike/run). 

During really hot weather when I still want to hit the trails, one go-to for me is Hixon's Oak trail on the north side of Grandad's Bluff. Located partway up the bluff, the rolling, windy trail in the woods is shady and protected from the sun by trees and the bluffside.  

A lovely old stump

The trail is a little under 3 miles out-and-back but it is easy to add additional miles. At it's end, you run into a junction where multiple trails branch off that can lead you into the larger trail system that can take you all the way up to the blufftop. No guarantees of coolness once you start climbing though!

This trail is great in any season too. Spring wildflowers, fall colors, and protection from winter winds make it accessible and interesting anytime. The winding trail makes this an interesting hike. Bridges along the way over ravines built by dedicated trail maintenance volunteers keep you rolling forward. Some of the trail is below the main access road to Grandad's Bluff so traffic is present.

The notable rock formation

While there are fewer views available along the trail since it is on the side of the bluff, you can often glimpse the bluff tops across the way and their prairies. The dirt and rock trail climbs to one rock formation before quickly heading down to the merging trails near the end.

Images - Marge Loch-Wouters

THE HIKE

This 3 mile out-and-back hike along a bluffside features dirt and rock path along a rolling, twisty trail. Total elevation gain is about 433 feet. Hardwood forests provide great shade and ferns and fungi along the way provide interest. Glimpses of bluffs and prairies as well as a rock formation and bridges can be found along the trail. Spring wildflowers and longer views to the bluff in winter also provide interest in this protected bluffside hike.

Location: 

From La Crosse, follow Main St east until it turns left and becomes Bliss Road. Drive straight and go into parking lot before making the first curve to the right.