n o i t a n i Destf t l e s s dri TR
| R E C R E AT S N O I T C A R S | AT T T N E | V E S P A M AIL
ION
EXPLORATION GUIDE 2025 [ published by the decorah leader ]
LIVE SHOWS • EVENTS • WEEKLY MOVIES
Historic theatre with current amenities
See our schedule of live entertainment & special events
110
Available to rent for private & public events 1914-2024
Years
...AND COUNTING!
Thank you for your support!
2
decorahleader.com
Decorah Bicycles 101 College Dr., Decorah
decorahbicycles.com • 563-382-8209
Wed-Fri 10-6, Sat 9-5, Sun 12-4, Closed Mon-Tue
Serving breakfast ALL DAY!
DAILY
SPECIALS!
Scan the QR Code to view our menu!
817 Mechanic St. Decorah, IA (563) 382-2964
6am-8pm Mon-Sat; 6am-2pm Sun
Nothing Fancy, Just Good Food! DRIFTLESS FUN FACT: The 156 mile-long Upper Iowa River begins in Mower County Minnesota.
3
DESTINATION DRIFTLESS
Dunning’s Spring Waterfall, Decorah, IA (Seth Boyes photo)
4
The Driftless Region is home to numerous natural formations and other attractions which have drawn visitors to the area for generations. Unlike other areas of the Midwest, the Driftless Region’s undulating landscape was never touched by glacial deposits — or drift — during the last ice age, and it has maintained its steep hills, bluffs and deeply carved rivers as well as spring-fed waterfalls and streams. Elevations within the region range from about 600 feet to more than 1,700 feet, and the curving wilderness often attracts outdoor enthusiasts with opportunities for trout fishing and hunting as well as kayaking, canoeing, tubing or hiking and biking. Cyclists can traverse about 20 miles of northeast Iowa’s Prairie Farmer Recreation Trail, which connects the cities of Calmar and Cresco. Both are home to their respective county’s Freedom Rocks — large boulders painted by artist Ray “Bubba” Sorensen, who has applied patriotic images to large stones in each of the state’s 99 counties. Cyclists can also take advantage of more than 40 miles of Minnesota trails, which largely run along the Root River and connect the city of Harmony — which is situated a few miles north of the state line — to communities like Lanesboro, Whalen Peterson, Rushford and Houston. The Driftless Region’s curvy landscape also provides environments suitable for winter activities, such as snowshoeing and cross country skiing. Outdoor tourism in the Driftless Region is estimated to generate more than $70 million each year and employ more than 500 people. In addition, communities throughout the Driftless areas of Iowa, Minnesota and Wisconsin hold various local celebrations each year. A number of cities in the region host annual festivals recognizing the heritage of early settlers — such as Decorah’s Nordic Fest and Guttenberg’s Germanfest. Many hold annual county fairs, and some welcome competitors and crowds to rodeos and dirt track motor races each year. Aside from traditional holiday events and celebrations, many Driftless communities organize events centered around local food and drink or the visual arts. More than a dozen playhouses across the region offer live theatrical performances, and the Driftless Region is home to almost 30 local farmers markets — most of which host events between May and October. In addition, the Driftless Region’s businesses continue to draw visitors throughout the year. A variety of small, independent businesses and boutiques offer customers everything from locally grown produce to gifts, entertainment and lodging — all nestled into the natural beauty of the region.
decorahleader.com
Phelps Park hiking trail in Autumn, Geese land in rural Peterson, MN during harvest. (Kayla Thompson photo) Decorah, IA. (Samantha Ludeking photo)
FEATURED CONTENT Attractions.................... 3, 14, 15, 16, 24, 26, 38, 40, 42, 47, 56, 64, 67, 68, 74 Entertainment ............................................................................... 12, 20, 34, 70 Events ............................................................................... 10, 34, 36, 46, 70, 76 Farmers Markets ............................................................................................ 18 Recreation .................. 14, 15, 22, 28, 29, 30, 32, 44, 54, 58, 61, 66, 69, 72, 73 TRAIL MAPS .............................................................. 60, 62, 64, A, B, C, D
PICTURED ON THE COVER
Top photos from left to right: Junior Nordic Dancers perform during Nordic Fest in Decorah (Seth Boyes photo); Local brews abound in the Driftless region (Samantha Ludeking photo); Ice fishing on the Mississippi backwaters and its tributaries (Abby Cahalan photo); Live music in Decorah (Denise Lana photo). Bottom photo: Kayakers on the Upper Iowa River (Seth Boyes photo). DRIFTLESS FUN FACT: The limestone and karst geology of the Driftless result in numerous deep caves, sink holes and disappearing streams.
5
ADVERTISING DIRECTORY
ATTRACTIONS Bily Clocks Museum ................ 71 Carnegie Cultural Center ........ 68 Cresco Theatre & Opera House .. 2 Chatfield Center for the Arts ..... 2 Elkader Opera House .............. 65 German American Museum, Library & Family History Center.................................. 68 Guttenberg, Iowa .................... 67 Harmony, Minnesota ............... 43 Howard County, Iowa .............. 75 International Owl Center ......... 49 Lanesboro, Minnesota ............. 47 Laura Ingalls Wilder Park & Museum ........................... 39 Postville, Iowa .......................... 63 Rushford Peterson Valley, Minnesota ............................ 48 Seed Savers Exchange ............ 37 Spring Grove, Minnesota......... 51 Spook Cave ............................. 61 Sunflower Child Development & Discovery Center.............. 33 The Ax Hole at Lid’s ................. 59 The Porter House Museum...... 27 Vesterheim Norwegian American Museum & Folk Art School .. 17 Waukon, Iowa .......................... 55 Whalan, Minnesota .................. 47 LODGING - CAMPGROUNDS Amish Valley Cabin .................. 38 Backwater Suites...................... 61 Bear Creek Cabins ................... 41 Bluff Country Retreat ............... 45 Bluffview Campground ............ 49 Bluffton Resort & Bar ............... 39 Courtyard by Marriott .............. 53 Chase the Adventure ............... 24 Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott ........................... 31 Hotel Winneshiek .................... 27 Lanesboro Campground ......... 44 Outback Ranch ........................ 50 Red’s Retreat & Guesthouse .... 11 Riverside Park & Campground 71 Root River Inn & Suites ............ 45 Super 8 .................................... 25 The Barn House Lodge ........... 71 The Elkader Campground ....... 66
6
EDUCATION KinderHaus Outdoor Preschool 33 Luther College ......................... 35 EVENTS Fort Atkinson Rendezvous ....... 68 Hesper-Mabel Steam Engine Days ............. 41 NEIA Artists Studio Tour .......... 68 Nordic Fest 2025 ..................... 23 Oneota Film Festival................ 16 FOOD - DRINK Big Buoys Tiki Bar .................... 63 Double “D” Liquor Store......... 55 Elkader Pizzeria........................ 66 Empty Nest Winery ................. 59 Fireman’s Inn............................ 77 Heaven Boutique Winery ........ 69 High Court Pub........................ 45 La Rana Bistro .......................... 19 Lid’s Bar & Grill ........................ 59 Little Miami Bar & Restaurant .. 57 Luna Valley Farm ..................... 39 Magpie Cafe & Coffeehouse ... 21 Old Armory BBQ ..................... 11 Pedal Pushers .......................... 47 PromiseLand Winery................ 67 Pulpit Rock Brewing Co. .......... 34 Root River 102 ......................... 45 Rubaiyat Restaurant & Wine Shop ....................... 82 Sabin Family Table..................... 3 Saxon Hall................................ 53 Schera’s .................................... 65 Scooter’s Coffee ...................... 11 St. Olaf Tavern ......................... 63 Taqueria Pato Azul ................... 52 T-Bock’s Sports Bar & Grill ......... 7 TD’s Sports Bar & Grill ............. 66 The Landing Market ................ 19 Toppling Goliath Brewing Co. . 81 Twin Springs Supper Club ....... 25 Water Street Deli ..................... 23 Whippy Dip ............................. 33 Winneshiek Wildberry Winery . 37 WW Homestead Dairy ............. 57 HEALTH - WELLNESS - SPA Decorah Acupuncture Center.. 30 Regional Health Services ......... 75 Salú Sauna + Wellness Spa ..... 30 Shear Wonders Salon .............. 30 Veterans Memorial Hospital .... 55
SERVICES - RESOURCES Bruening .................................. 24 Citizens Savings Bank .............. 42 Decorah Leader Newspaper.... 78 DuTrac Community Credit Union ........................ 17 KAR Auto Group...................... 13 Viking State Bank..................... 77 REALTORS Friest and Associates Realtors . 11 Kelly Real Estate ...................... 13 RECREATION Allamakee County Economic Development & Tourism ...... 57 Bear Creek Anglers.................. 22 Decorah Parks & Recreation .... 28 Nauti Marina ............................ 63 RETAIL Ace Kitchen Place & Ace Hardware ...................... 24 Decorah Bicycles ....................... 3 Decorah Farmers Market ......... 27 Depot Outlet ............................. 9 Double Windsor Clothing Co. . 23 Dragonfly Books ...................... 25 Fisk Farm & Home ..................... 7 Gallery of Tops .......................... 9 Jubilee ..................................... 19 K&K Gardens ........................... 69 KL Design Co........................... 19 Kwik Trip/Star........................... 73 LetterWerks Sign City .............. 39 Lynch BBQ ................................. 7 Magic Morpho ......................... 30 Market 52 ................................ 39 Outdoors and More................. 75 Pinter’s Gardens & Pumpkins... 77 Polashek’s Locker ..................... 75 Red-Roxy Quilt Co ................... 11 Simply Antiques......................... 9 Sycamore Floral ....................... 55 The Boutique Station............... 49 The Getup ................................. 9 The Perfect Edge ..................... 21 The Silver Birch ........................ 25 Turkey River Mall ..................... 65 Upper Iowa Marine .................. 13 Whalan Depot ......................... 49
WE KNOW CRAFT! LOCAL BEERS on tap! Topping Goliath, Pulpit Rock & Pivo Brewery
111 1st Ave. SW Waucoma, IA Mon-Fri 8am-4pm 563-776-3401
DELICIOUS FOOD
2486 171st Ave. Decorah, IA Mon-Fri 8am-3pm 563-382-4420
APPETIZERS • BURGERS SANDWICHES • WRAPS SALADS • SOUPS CHEESECAKE & MORE!
COMPETITION STYLE
SMOKED MEATS AWARD-WINNING
SEASONING + SAUCES
Nationwide shipping available!
206 W. Water St., Decorah 563-382-5970
SHOP ONLINE
www.tbocks.com
Owners Mike & Dominique Bockman
Three locations to serve you!
www.lynchbbq.com
AUTOMOTIVE HOUSEWARES ELECTRICAL PLUMBING
WE FILL LP TANKS!
LAWN & GARDEN HARDWARE FARM SUPPLIES
Decorah 563-382-8822 Cresco 563-547-2492 Monona 563-539-2405 DRIFTLESS FUN FACT: As of 2024, Iowa is home to approximately 150 brewery and brewpub locations.
TOOLS GIFTS & MORE M-F 7:30-5:30 | SAT 7:30-5 | SUN 10-2
7
Heritage Farm north of Decorah, IA is the headquarters of Seed Savers Exchange. (Shawn Linehan photo)
Seed Savers Exchange celebrates 50 years of sharing seeds and stories 3094 North Winn Rd., Decorah, IA
Seed Savers Exchange, the largest non-governmental seed bank in the United States, is celebrating its 50th anniversary in 2025. It was founded in 1975 by Diane Ott Whealy and Kent Whealy, and Seed Savers has retained what organizers there called an unwavering commitment to its mission. Diane said the organization’s main priorities are to save heirloom seeds and preserve the stories associated with them. “My grandparents had given me morning glory and tomato seeds that their parents brought from Bavaria when they immigrated to St. Lucas,” Diane said. “So, we had those seeds and the story about them and how the seeds linked back to our ancestors. That was the ‘ah-ha’ moment for us, because, if my grandparents had passed away without giving me the seeds, they would have been lost. So, we said, ‘Let’s see if there’s anybody else out there who’s interested in saving and distributing these heirloom varieties of seed.” “We got letters and lots of seed, but seeds are not like heirloom furniture or jewelry, because they’re living, so you can’t just dust them and put them on a shelf,” Diane said. “You have to grow 8
the seed out to keep it living and viable.” The Whealys founded Seed Savers with the two seeds from Diane’s grandparents, and today, the exchange features more than 20,000 different varieties of seeds, which they grow out to keep viable over time. SSE’s Executive Director Mike Bollinger said, by sharing seeds, Seed Savers helps ensure biodiversity among their produce continues. “The idea is that, the more places that these seeds are growing, the safer they are,” he said. “It’s less likely that we’ll lose biodiversity because of this sharing. And, we also have the exchange online, through our website. For example, there are 6,378 different kinds of tomato being exchanged and 1,933 varieties of beans.” “And, it’s not just seed preservation but preservation of a landscape.” Diane said, “We have Heritage Farm, hiking trails, a trout stream, an orchard with about 500 historic apple trees. We work with a rare breed of cattle, and we’re preserving the landscape, because that’s as important as a seed. We need pollinators to pollinate the seed, and pollinators need natural habitat.”
decorahleader.com
Simply Antiques Nancy Lerdall
Furniture & Primitives Open by chance or appointment
563-382-8806
801 East Water St., Decorah, IA
Check r out ou
Decorah, Iowa & Norwegian apparel & souvenirs
QUALITY SCREEN PRINTING EMBROIDERY PROMOTIONAL PRODUCTS 114 W. Water St., Decorah 563-382-9330
www.galleryoftops.com
DONATE SHOP SUPPORT
Giving Local Is What We Do
Depot Outlet
DECORAH, IA
THRIfT STORE depotoutlet.org
DRIFTLESS FUN FACT: Seed Saver’s Exchange, near Decorah houses the nation’s largest nongovernmental seed bank of its kind.
9
DRIFTLESS IOWA COMMUNITY CELEBRATIONS
Car Show at Ossian Fest (Denise Lana photo)
Arlington Arlington Days, July 11-12 Burr Oak Laura Days, June 27-29 Calmar Calmar’s 175th Celebration, July 19 Chester Old Settlers Day, June 14 Cresco Norman Borlaug Harvest Fest, Aug. 22-24 Decorah Syttende Mai, May 16 Nordic Fest, July 24-26 Edgewood Pro Rodeo Days, June 26-29 ‘Tis the Season, Nov. 6-8 Elma Old Roundhouse Trail Days, July 11-13 Elkader Sweet Corn Days, July 24-26 Art in the Park, Aug. 16-17 Osborne Heritage Days, Oct. 11-12 Get Your Jingle On, Nov. 7-8 Fayette Fayette Fest, July 19 Watermelon Days, Sept. 5-7 Fort Atkinson Rendezvous, Sept. 27-28 10
Guttenberg Stars & Stripes Independence Day Celebration, July 5 Catfish Tournament, July 26 River Park Cruisers Car Show, Cruise and Dance, Sept. 13 Germanfest, Sept. 19-20 German Holiday Market & Parade, Nov. 29 Hawkeye Fun Days, June 20-21 Lansing Taste of Lansing, May 22 Fish Days, Aug. 8-10 Lime Springs Sweet Corn Days, Aug. 8-10 Luana Luana Daze, Aug. 23-24 Marquette Independence Day Celebration, July 5 Maynard Maynard Days, June 27-29 McGregor Memorial Day Parade, May 26 Lazy River Wine & Beer Fest, June 28 Fall Art Fest, Oct. 11-12 Fall-Der-All Celebration, Sept. 27-28
Halloween Parade/Festival, Oct. 25 Festival of Trees, Dec. 3-6 Monona Hay Days, June 14 Oelwein Oelwein Celebration, July 10-13 Old Tyme Christmas, Dec. 5 Ossian Ossian Fest/Ossian’s 175th Celebration, Aug. 8-10 Postville Big 4 Fair, June 13-15 Hometown Parade, June 13 Protivin Czech Days, Aug. 15-17 Riceville Wapsie Days, Aug. 1-2 Ridgeway Ridgeway Day, June 14 Spillville Independence Day Celebration, July 5 St. Lucas Fun Days, June 27-28 Wadena Lima Leaf Day at Lima Church, Oct. 5 Waukon Corn Days, Aug. 1-2
decorahleader.com
BBQ
OLD ARMORY
BBQ AT ITS BEST!
CHOP HOUSE OPEN MON-SAT 11AM-8PM 208 College Dr., Decorah
563-382-6208
WE CATER!
ANY SIZE EVENT! Contact Chef Matt
SLOW COOKED MEATS HOMEMADE SAUCES APPETIZERS & SIDES
oldarmorybbqdecorah.com SLEEPS UP TO 13 GUESTS
110 Court St., Decorah
FULL BATH ON EVERY LEVEL
D.J. Friest, Broker Kevin Gossling • Al Peake Dave Huinker
1,100 SQ. FT. RETREAT/ COMMON SPACE
Our Sole Business is
602 W. Water St., Downtown Decorah 563.380.5772 info@redsretreatdecorah.com
Listing & Selling Real Estate! View our other listings at www.friest.com
redsretreatdecorah.com
✛
EXPERIENCE ✦
✦
✛
Reserve at
Caramelicious ®
Prickly Pear Red Bull Infusion
Cold Brew
Wild Berry Smoothie Brewed Coffee
804 Short Street, Decorah, IA
563-382-4646 • redroxyquiltco.com MON-FRI 10am-5pm SAT 10am-3pm SUN 12pm-3pm Book your next retreat or family gathering at Red’s Retreat & Guesthouse
SWEET & SAVORY BITES
OPEN DAILY 6AM-8PM
900 Short Street, Decorah, IA
DRIFTLESS FUN FACT: The Decorah Ice Cave State Preserve contains one of the largest “ice caves” in the Midwest.
11
RACETRACKS
Winneshiek Raceway, Decorah, IA (Seth Boyes photo)
Cresco Speedway
220 7th St. W Cresco, IA (563) 547-3400 Cresco Speedway is a 4/10mile track high-banked clay track which holds special events from May to October every summer. Classes include USRA Stock Car, USRA B-Mods, USRA Hobby Stock, USRA Tuners and ECOMods. Hot laps start at 7 p.m., followed by racing. For more information and the schedule of races visit the website at mhcfair.com/ entertainment/cresco-speedway/.
Fayette County Speedway
504 S. Vine St., West Union, IA (319) 327-2733 Fayette County Speedway is a 3/8-mile track and is one of the oldest, continuously running weekly racetracks in Iowa. The Speedway’s Friday night races feature USRA Stock Car, USRA B Mod, USRA Hobby Stock, USRA Tuners, 600 Mod Lites and winged sprint cars. Hot laps start at 7 p.m., followed by racing at 7:30 p.m. For more information visit the website at racefayettecountyspeedway.net. 12
Built in the 1930s, the Fayette County Fairgrounds was a horse racetrack which circled nearly the entire fairgrounds. Undergoing several changes throughout the years, the current 3/8-mile track was constructed in 1991 with two crow’s nests and a backstretch fence. The track is now operated by the Fayette County Ag Society’s Race Committee.
Winneshiek Raceway
900 E. Main St., Decorah, IA (563) 379-1979 Each Saturday night, anyone looking for speed and fun can depend on the 1/4-mile dirt semibanked oval at Winneshiek Raceway in Decorah. Located on the Winneshiek County Fairgrounds, the raceway holds races every Saturday night (exceptions are usually posted on the raceway’s social media page). Hot laps begin each night at 6:30 p.m., with races getting underway at 7 p.m. Five racing classes are in competition each Saturday, including: USRA Stock Cars, USRA B Mods, USRA Hobby Stocks, USRA Tuners and ECO Mods.
The Winneshiek Raceway website helps the fans follow season points totals as well as other events and can be viewed at www. winneshiekraceway.com.
Deer Creek Speedway
25262 Highway 63 Spring Valley, MN (507) 754-6107 Located 15 miles south of Rochester, Deer Creek Speedway is home to 60-plus acres of one of the most state-of-the-art racing complexes in the country. The high-backed 3/8-mile dirt-clay racetrack schedules an average of 30 events a year. Each Saturday night, from April to October, four classes of race cars kick up the dirt including USRA Modifieds, USRA B-Mods, USRA Stocks and USRA Hobby Stocks. With 24 VIP suites and 36 VIP decks, Deer Creek has held some of the biggest events in the country. A full-service campground, also located within the facility, is fully equipped to handle any size rig and has been home to more than 250 campers during a single event. For more information on upcoming events visit deercreekspeedway.com.
decorahleader.com
W& E N Y MAN ICLES H E V USED se from! o to cho
• NEW & USED BOATS • • KAYAKS • • TUBES • • ACCESSORIES •
Decorah Auto Center 2072 State Hwy 9, Decorah 563-382-3919
Proud to sell and service some of the best products in the business such as Suzuki and Mercury Outboards, Mercruiser and Volvo Penta Stern Drives, Alumacraft and Crestliner Fishing Boats, and Viaggio and Premier Pontoons
Decorah Chevrolet Decorah Chrysler 1815 State Hwy 9, Decorah 563-382-3619
Albertson Auto Center 2748 State Hwy 325, Spillville 563-562-3237
SHOP ONLINE 24/7 FAMILY-OWNED AND OPERATED CAR DEALERSHIPS
E-MAIL: uimarine@usa.com www.upperiowamarine.com PH: 866-382-9387 • FAX: 563-382-5488
Teamwork from the team that works best!
Front Row: Jayme Folkedahl, Gina Smith, Keegan Steinlage, Mike Kelly, Marcia Madrigal. Back Row: Trent Ostby, Janice Numedahl, Jeanne Gullekson, Billy Connor, Ron Juve.
1870 State Hwy. 9, Decorah, IA | 563-382-8406
www.davekelly.com DRIFTLESS FUN FACT: The Chuck Gipp Decorah Fish Hatchery raises nearly 130,000 catchable-size rainbow trout every year.
13
12 Family
DRIFTLESS AREA
FUNideas 2 Iowa’s Dairy Center
1 Trails Trails Trails! Entire Driftless region
From mountain biking to hiking and even horseback riding, the Driftless region has a wealth of trails to enjoy. Bike and E-Bike rentals are available throughout the region as well.
1527 IA-150, Calmar, IA
Experience the sights, sounds and smells of a real dairy farm. Step inside the barn to watch robots milk cows, see where cows live and more! There is no charge for self-guided tours.
3 Sunflower Discovery Center 902 Commerce Dr., Decorah, IA
Play, explore, unleash energy and learn at Decorah’s new indoor play area. Highlights include a water table, giant Etch-A-Sketch, netted climbing structure, building block tables and a turf-surfaced play area.
$
4 Parks and Playgrounds Throughout the Driftless
Pack the family and head out to one of the 100+ parks in the Driftless. Many offer equipment for all ages and abilities and extras like tennis and pickleball courts and disc golf courses like Elkader’s City park pictured here.
5 International Owl Center 126 E Cedar St., Houston, MN
Plan a visit to the only all-owl education facility in the United States and enjoy live owl demonstrations, learn to identify an owl by its call and view owl artwork.
$
14
6 Chuck Gipp Decorah Fish Hatchery 2321 Siewers Spring Rd., Decorah, IA
Feed the trout, an exciting experience for all ages. Picnic by the waterfall and fish the trout stream.
decorahleader.com
7 Tube, Canoe and Kayak
Root River, Upper Iowa River, Yellow River and Turkey River
Few things say ‘family fun’ more than a relaxing float down a river? Take in the unique views only available from the Driftless region’s waterways.
8 Geocaching
Throughout the Driftless
Geocaching is a recreational activity, in which participants use GPS to hide and seek containers, called geocaches or caches, at specific locations marked by coordinates all over the world. Thousands of these caches are right here in the Driftless region.
9 Arts and Crafts
Throughout the Driftless
Beyond the plethora of art tours (see page 36) in the Driftless region, there are several opportunities for family members of all ages to get their creative juices flowing. Local libraries often have arts and crafts classes, and several local businesses have open studios available for a fee. Take on a project at:
ArtHaus
107 W. Broadway St., Decorah, IA
Kollective Memories Boutique (pictured)
$
122 East Main St., Ossian, IA,
10 Thrifting
Throughout the Driftless
Hunting the 11 Rock Driftless @DecorahRocks & more
The Driftless region is loaded with folks painting, hiding and hunting rocks. The Decorah Rocks Group in particular keeps the area flush with beautiful creations. Gastropods, Brachiopods and Maclurites, oh my! These are just some of the common fossils one can find while on a walk along almost any body of water or hillside around the Driftless.
Whether shopping for a specific item or just enjoying the thrill of finding a rare item, thrifting can be fun and cost-effective. Plus, it’s a super fun way to bring home a unique souvenir from the Driftless! Find treasures at:
The Getup (pictured)
212 W Water St., Decorah, IA
$
12 Live Music
Jam out in the Driftless
Families can catch live music weekly, all summer long. Many communities have music in the parks and other no-cost options like farmers markets. Decorah’s Lawn Chair Night is pictured here.
DRIFTLESS FUN FACT: The Decorah impact crater is one of fewer than 200 recognized impact structures on the entire planet.
15
first full weekend of March
“Rooted Connections,” by artist Maggie Schwarz, is affixed to the rear of the business suites at 110 Washington Street, Decorah. (Samantha Ludeking photo)
‘Beautiful secret walkways full of art’
Go off the beaten path in Decorah to enjoy smallscale public art installments in a new and ongoing Postage Stamp series. Decorah Area Chamber of Commerce’s executive director Jessica Rilling drew inspiration from her own stamp collection in launching the idea. “I liked the idea of the alleyway, because it’s a way to increase beauty in unexpected places,” Rilling said. The installments are partly organized by participants in the Decorah Area Chamber of Commerce’s Empower Decorah classes. Decorah City Manager Travis Goedken said many cities are choosing to improve and beautify what he called underutilized spaces in their respective downtown districts, improving their overall atmosphere. “With the Postage Stamp series, where that really becomes of value is, it can draw visitors to areas otherwise not-noticed within Decorah.” Currently three Postage Stamp installations are located in the alleys which run east and west through Decorah’s downtown blocks between Water Street and Main Street. “Backstreet Blossoms,” by Hannah Tulgren is displayed on the brick exterior of Impact Coffee. “Rooted Connections” was created by artist Maggie Schwarz and is displayed near the offices of the Decorah Leader and Salú Sauna and Wellness Spa. “Alley Rug” by fiber artist Sally Dorsett is installed in an alley-side window between Winnebago and Washington Street. 16
decorahleader.com
Switch to a financial partner that’s local, accessible, and dedicated to you!
Visit DuTrac.org or stop by your local DuTrac branch office for more information. (563) 582-1331 | DuTrac.org
Welcome to Vesterheim, the National NorwegianAmerican Museum and Folk Art School! Enjoy fun and innovative exhibits, classes, and programs at the dynamic campus and park in scenic downtown Decorah. Find everything Scandinavian at Vesterheim’s Museum Store! This ad supported by Decorah Hotel Motel Marketing Committee.
520 W. Water St. Decorah, Iowa 52101 vesterheim.org DRIFTLESS FUN FACT: Velkommen, a common phrase in Decorah and Spring Grove, means welcome in Norwegian.
17
FARMERS MARKETS Caledonia, May-October
Lansing, June-September
Chatfield, May-October
Special Farmers Market Aug. 9, 8-11 a.m. at downtown plaza
Tuesdays from 3-6 p.m. at Gazebo Park
Thursdays from 3-6 p.m. at Chatfield City Park Chester, May-October
Thursdays 1-4 p.m. at Chester City Park
First & third Thursdays, 4-6 p.m. at city park on Front Street
Mabel, May-October
Saturdays 8:30-11:30 a.m. Quarter-mile west of Mabel on Highway 44
Cresco, May-October
Marquette, May-October
Decorah, May-October
Monona, May-October
Thursdays 3-6 p.m. at Beadle Park Wednesdays 3-6 p.m.; Saturdays 9-12 a.m. at the city parking lot across from the post office Edgewood, June-October
Tuesdays 3:30-5:30 p.m. at Edgewood City Park Elgin, May-October
Thursdays 4-6 p.m. at Elgin City Park
Elkader, May-October
Saturday 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Fast Trak Guttenberg, May-October
Saturdays 8 a.m. to Noon on the 400 block of South River Park Drive
Fridays 4-7 p.m. at Driftless Area Wetlands Centre Wednesdays 3-6 p.m. at Gateway Park
New Albin, June-October
Fridays 3-6 p.m. at City Porch (Highway 26) Oelwein, May-October
Wednesdays 4-6 p.m.; Fridays 8-11 a.m. at Depot Park Postville, July-September
Thursdays 4-7 p.m. at parking lot at Northeast Iowa RC&D Preston Pop-Up Market,
May 17, Sept. 13, at Fillmore Street, courthouse parking lot Protivin, May-October
Harmony, May-October
Wednesdays 2:30-5:30 p.m. at Protivin City Park
Harpers Ferry, June-October
Open year-round at Graham Park, 112 Arena Dr. SE, Rochester
La Crescent, Summer
Saturdays 9-11:30 a.m. at 203 Main St.
Lanesboro, May-October
Saturdays 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at New Generations of Harmony, 50 Industrial Blvd. NE Fridays 5-7 p.m. at Catholic Church parking lot
Tuesdays 4-7 p.m. in parking lot adjacent to Veteran’s Parkway and La Crescent Event Center Saturdays 9 a.m. to Noon at Sylvan Park 18
Decorah Farmers Market (Roz Weis photo)
Rochester Farmers Market
Riceville, May-October
Spring Valley, June-October
Wednesday on Broadway, June 18, July 16, Aug. 20, Sept. 17, Oct. 11, 5-8 p.m. at N. Broadway Ave.
Rushford Peterson Valley, May-October
Waukon, June-September
Tuesdays 4-6:30 p.m. at 102 N. Mill St.
Mondays 3:30-5:30 p.m. at Waukon City Park Sweeney Shelter
Spring Grove, May-October
West Union, June-October
Wednesdays 4-7 p.m. at Viking Memorial Park
Thursdays 5:30-7:30 p.m. at Euphoria Coffee, 124 E. Elm St.
decorahleader.com
a n a R a L Bistro
GOODS FOR INNER ELEVATION
Tuesday-Saturday: Lunch 11:30am-2pm • Dinner 5-9pm
modern furniture
Scratch kitchen Craft cocktails Seasonal menu
lighting + housewares records + turntables
120 Washington St., Decorah, IA 563-382-3067
books + linens
Reservations recommended
pantry goods apothecary
JUBILEE 218 W. Water St. Decorah, IA
jubileedecorah.com Wed-Sat: 11AM-6PM • Sun: 11AM-2PM • Mon + Tue: Closed
Eat.Drink.Gather.
Decorah’s Food Hall
Breafast, Lunch Dinner, Snacks + Beverages
TANDEM
+ MORE!
www.thelandingmarket.com
Open daily! 211 College Drive, Decorah • 563-277-1893
DRIFTLESS FUN FACT: “Van Peenan” (as the locals call it) is Decorah’s largest park.
19
PERFORMING ARTS Chatfield Wits’ End Theatre 405 Main St. S www.witsendtheatre.org Cresco Cresco Theatre & Opera House 115 Second Ave. W www.crescotheatreoperahouse.com • “Scriptless in Seattle” - Aug. 23
Dickens on Mill, Decorah, IA (Zach Jensen photo)
Decorah New Minowa Players 906 S. Mill St. www.newminowaplayers.org • “The Pirates of Penzance” - June 26-29
La Crosse Community Theater 428 Front St. S lacrossetheatre.org • “Waitress” - May 2-18 • “Arcadia” - May 23-24
Dickens on Mill Street Holiday Event 302 S. Mill St. www.winneshiekcountyhistoricalsociety.com • Dickens on Mill 2025 - Dec. 6
La Crescent Appleseed Theatre 340 Skunk Hollow Rd. www.appleseedtheatre.com
Elkader Elkader Opera House 207 N. Main St. elkaderoperahouse.com • “Space Pirates” Youth Musical - June 20 • “Crazy For You” - Oct. 3-5, 9-12 • “A Classic Christmas Fantasy” - Dec. 7 LaCrosse The Muse Theatre 1353 Avon St. themuselax.com “The Muse Theatre” on Facebook
20
Lanesboro St. Mane Theatre 206 Parkway Ave. N lanesborocommunitytheater. blogspot.com Commonweal Theatre Company 208 Parkway Ave. N commonwealtheatre.org • “The Half-Life of Marie Curie” - April 12-July 5 • “The Angel Next Door” May 24-Sept. 6 • “Lone Star Spirits” - July 19-Oct. 25 • “King Lear” - Sept. 20Nov. 2 • “A Sherlock Carol” - Nov. 15-Dec. 21 History Alive! Pop Up Play 200 Parkway Ave. S historyalivelanesboro.org • Historical pop-up play performances - TBA
Oelwein Williams Center for the Arts 317 8th Ave. SE www.williamscenterforthearts.com Rushford Rushford Area Society of the Arts 1000 Pine Meadows Lane, Rushford-Peterson School Auditorium • “The Little Mermaid” - Aug. 7-10 Spring Grove Ye Olde Opera House 155 W. Main St. www.yeoldeoperahouse.org • “Something Rotten!” - July 16-19 Spring Valley Brave Community Theatre 200 S. Broadway Ave. sites.google.com/site/bravecommunityspringvalley/ • “Harvey” - Aug. 13-17 Waukon Wolfpack Theater Company 38 W. Main St. “Wolfpack Theater Company” on Facebook • “Footloose” - July 10-12 decorahleader.com
For all your framing needs
Custom Framing & Art Gallery local artists
DRIFTLESS FUN FACT: Iowa is a Siouan Indian word derived from Ioway, meaning sleepy ones.
21
UPPER IOWA RIVER
Upper Iowa River, Decorah, IA (Seth Boyes photo) The Upper Iowa River is among the most popular and widely-honored waterways in the state. In addition to its nomination as a national Wild and Scenic River in the 1960s, it has also been named one of America’s 100 Greatest Adventures by National Geographic magazine. Despite its name, the Upper Iowa actually originates in southern Minnesota before crossing the border and flowing through Howard, Winneshiek and Allamakee counties for 136 miles. The Upper Iowa meets the Mississippi River near New Albin, Iowa. The river and its corridor change greatly along its course. At its northern end, the Upper Iowa is characterized by flat, fertile field benches as it runs through open prairies. But downstream it picks up speed and volume, running through upland forests, often lined by vertical limestone bluffs. Paddlers share this river with local families, bird enthusiasts, campers, hikers and the wildlife which calls this diverse corridor home. Anglers in particular love the Upper Iowa for its diverse species. Trout are abundant, especially near the many coldwater streams which feed the river. Smallmouth bass are found throughout the system and sauger, sturgeon, northern pike, flathead and channel catfish, yellow perch and white bass migrate up from the Mississippi River. 22
Many people - grateful residents and appreciative visitors - consider the Upper Iowa one of the most beautiful areas of the Driftless. Limestone bluffs, some 300 feet high, are crowned with stands of pine and balsam fir, and the Palisades section is striking enough that many paddlers pause, fish out a camera or phone and make time for a photo session. Malanaphy Springs plunges into the Upper Iowa to form a pool just above the scenic River Road Bridge, one of the more popular canoe take outs. These are just a few highlights of a river trip on one of the most scenic rivers in the Midwest.
decorahleader.com
Your
one-stop shop for all things
MENSWEAR Most sizes available New inventory weekly! OPEN DAILY! Mon-Sat 9-6 | Sun 10-4
Devil Dog Grand River Florsheim Johnston & Murphy Cinch Kimes Ranch Saxx Mission Belts 7Diamonds 309 W. Water St. Decorah, IA 563-277-1317
doublewindsorclothingco.com 301 W. Water St. Decorah, IA 563-277-1052
THE BEST
meats, cheese & retail food goods the world has to offer! TAKE-OUT SANDWICHES, SALADS, SOUPS, BREADS, LEMONADES & MORE
>>
CRAFTED PANTRY SELECTION OF DRY GOODS
>>
DAILY FEATURE S & FRESH , GOURMET INGREDIE NTS
FRESH SEAFOOD AVAILABLY WEEKLY BY ORDER
>>
DRIFTLESS FUN FACT: Spot a gnome in a home? It’s likely a hand-painted wooden Nisse, in the award-winning style of Laura Hoeg.
CONNECT WITH US!
23
DRIFTLESS DRINK TOURS ARE A DRAW
Beverage tours are a huge attraction in the Driftless area. A growing number of craft beer breweries, distilleries and wineries have popped up over the last decade. The industry has evolved from the larger culinary and beverage tourism category in which people began planning travels based around experiencing food and drink of different geographies. Informally, vacations centric to the theme of enjoying beer have been dubbed “beercations.” Use the fold-out map near the back of this guide to plan your beverage tour!
BRUENING
ROCK PRODUCTS, INC. Several Locations to Serve You!
IOWA Waukon • Lansing • Cresco Lawler • Alta Vista • Decorah Fayette • Postville Independence • Saratoga Festina • Strawberry Point Knoxville • Elkader Oskaloosa • Oelwein Springville • Brandon MINNESOTA Zumbrota • Vasa • Pine Island Lake City • Mabel/Spring Grove Harmony • Leroy • Red Wing MISSOURI Edina • Gilliam • Glasgow Miami • Newark • La Plata Yard Marceline Yard
Wel com e to the
LOD GE!
GE! Celebrating we are open 7 days
DECORAH’S LOCAL HARDWARE STORE Locally owned since 1923 Family operated since 1975
ACE HARDWARE ACE HARDWARE 200 East Main St., Decorah, IA 563-382-3538
Mon-Sat 8-5:30; Sun 10-2
ACE KITCHEN PLACE 101 East Water St., Decorah 563-382-3544 decorahacestores.com Mon-Sat 9-5:30; Sun 10-2
ACE KITCHEN PL
ACE
Welcome to the
LODGE!
a week, 90+ YEARS so stop out
anytim IN BUSINESS e. We have Open 7 Days A Week Reserve the 1932 - 2025 handgun and rifle Reserve Handgun & Rifle Ranges Lodge ranges available everyda y. Daily Available The forLodg your overnight e stay, We also have Clays,Clays, Trap, Skeet, Sporting meetings, receptions Trap, Skeet, for overnigh t available Sat. &your & other parties. Sporting, and 5-stand& 5-Stand availab le Sun. or anytime by appt. stay, meeting (Seating for s , 150) Saturdays and Sundays, or any receptions Crushed Stone Products • Sand - Gravel • Ag Lime Spread OUR SERVICES INCLUDE: time appoint Construction Services • Excavation •by Grading • Piping ment. & other parties. • Sept. 1 - March 31 Base Prep Aggregate Placement • Paving • Curb & Gutter Retaining Walls • Landscaping Erosion Control • Flagging Demolition Work • Bank Stabilization
hunting season. OUR SERVICES INCLU for 150) DE: • Year round dog training (Seating hunts.
24
• Guide season. and dog available. • Sept. 1 - March 31 hunting • Bird cleaning service. • Year round dog training hunts. • Meals provided upon request. CONSTRUCTION, INC. • Gift certificates available. • Guide and dog availabl e. 900 Montgomery St., Decorah, IA 1838 Middle Calmar Rd, Decorah, IA 563-382-2933 • Bird cleaning service. 563-532-9821 • chasetheadventure.com www.brueningrock.com • Meals provided upon request. decorahleader.com
2021 • 2022 2023 • 2024
FEATURING THE BEST LOCALLY-SOURCED
STEAKS • CHOPS • SEAFOOD
FULL-SERVICE BAR SERVING SPECIALTY COCKTAILS 2149 Twin Springs Road, Decorah, IA 563-382-4096 • www.twinspringssupperclub.com
An exceptional meal awaits you at this scenic restaurant in the woods
Enjoy FREE hot breakfast & Conveniently located near Luther College, Decorah Municipal Airport, Vesterheim FREE WiFi! Museum, Decorah Fish Hatchery, Trout Run Trail and all Decorah has to offer!
1832 State Highway 9 Decorah, Iowa 563-382-8771
wyndhamhotels.com
100% smoke-free facility Pet-friendly
Christian Books, Bibles, Gifts, Bestsellers • Mysteries • Puzzles Dragonfly Books owner Kate Rattenborg invites you to visit Church Supplies and Cards Poetry • Childrens Books • Scandinavian
& more!
Great Gifts Readings & Signings
Fantastic Selection
Bestsellers Mysteries Fantastic selection Puzzles Poetry Childrens Books Scandinavian And more!
Great gifts
Get
your Readings & signings book
buzz!
Get Get youryour book book buzz!
buzz!
Hooray! Hooray! We’re We’re celebrating celebrating years in 139years in Hooray! business! business!
formerly The Master’s Touch
❤
family-owned
Knowledgeable Staff We’re celebrating Open daily! 563-382-4275 • 112 West Water St. Decorah 14 years in business! www.dragonflybooks.com
Open Daily!
family-owned
Open daily! 563-382-4275 • 112 West Water St. Decorah
Open Daily! OPEN DAILY! www.dragonflybooks.com 112 W. Water St., Decorah • 563-382-4275 Knowledgeable 563-382-4275 112 W. Water St., Decorah • 563-382-4275 staff www.dragonfl ybooks.com www.dragonfl 112 Westybooks.com Water St., Decorah DRIFTLESSwww.dragonflybooks.com FUN FACT: Phelps Park is Decorah’s oldest park.
WaterSt., St, Decorah • •563-382-4432 104104 W.WWater Decorah 563-382-4432 www.silverbirchdecorah.com
www.silverbirchdecorah.com
25
Vesterheim Museum commemorates 200th anniversary of Norwegian emigration 520 W. Water St., Decorah, IA
In 2025, Vesterheim, the National Norwegian-American Museum and Folk Art School, is commemorating the 200th anniversary of Norwegian emigration with activities, classes and a special exhibit. The sloop ship Restauration set sail for America from Stavanger, Norway, on July 4, 1825, with 52 Norwegians aboard, according to the museum, and the ship was the first in a large wave of Norwegian emigration. Within a century, more than 800,000 Norwegians followed these “Sloopers” to the United States.
200 Years of Norwegians in America
The museum’s exhibit, “200 Years of Norwegians in America,” features important objects, photographs, themes and stories from 200 years of Norwegians in America. The exhibit will be on view through Jan. 31, 2026. Luther College students in Anna Peterson’s Scandinavian immigration history course have chosen some of the objects for the exhibit and created a companion podcast, which is available through the Vesterheim website. Vesterheim Folk Art School offers classes in handcraft and culture throughout the year. Organizers will offer special Cultural Connection webinars with fiber artists from around the world, comparing traditions from various cultures, and Norwegian instructor Marta Kløve Juuhl will be in Decorah to teach weaving. Soprano Laura Loge and pianist Steven Luskan from Norway will also offer a concert in September at Luther College which will be live-streamed online. Vesterheim’s Museum Building includes a 25-foot wooden sailboat called the TradeWind. (Roz Weis photo) 26
decorahleader.com
Wednesday 3-6 PM Saturday 9 AM-Noon May - October Located in the city parking lot behind the Oneota Co-op and across the street from the Post Office
DRIFTLESS FUN FACT: The Porter House Museum wall in Decorah contains agates, amethyst, geodes, rose quartz, copper ore, petrified wood and more.
27
PICKLEBALL COURTS
Calmar St. Aloysius Gym 302 Maryville St., Calmar Free access, lighting
Cresco Fitness Center 316 Third Ave. E., Cresco, IA Winter play, lighting Cresco Pickleball Courts 659 S. Elm St., Cresco, IA Free access
Decorah Tennis Courts 101 Claiborne Dr., Decorah, IA Free access Edgewood Woods Edge 406 W. Union St., Edgewood, IA Free access
Pickleball in Rushford, MN
Fayette Rainbowland Park Corner of King St. & W. State St., Fayette, IA | Free access New Hampton Mikkelson Park Hwy 24 E., New Hampton, IA Free access, lighting
(Craig Johnson photo)
Rushford, MN Creekside Park, Rushford, MN Free access
Spring Grove Rec Park 500 Maple Dr., Spring Grove, MN Free access
Waterville Waterville, IA Small fee, lighting
Waukon Wellness Center 1220 3rd Ave NW, Waukon, IA Membership required, lighting
Summer fun for everyone! Pulpit Rock Camground
Open April 1 through October 31 (weather permitting) 563-382-9551 • prcamping@decorah.iowa.gov parks.decorahia.org/pulpit-rock-campground Our campgrounds are one of the best in the state! We offer a full range of services, including 56 back-in sites, 19 pullthroughs and 37 tent sites. Electrical hook-ups (30 and 50 amp), restroom & shower facilities, dump station & water station, and ice & wood sales. Amenities include a playground, basketball court, volleyball net, Wi-Fi, canoe landing and access to the beautiful Twin Springs Trout Stream and Trout Run Trail. Check our website for rates and other information.
Parks and Trails
Decorah Swimming Pool
Opens Tuesday, May 27 ~ 563-382-2055 parks.decorahia.org/decorah-municipal-pool PUBLIC SWIMMING HOURS Saturday and Sunday: 1:00-6:30 pm Monday thru Friday: 1:00-8:00 pm, with the exceptions noted below for home swim meets and swim lessons. These dates may change if lessons or meets are rescheduled due to weather. Home Swim Meet Days (public swim will be 1:00-4:00 pm): June 12, 19, 24 and July 1 Swim Lesson Dates (public swim will be 1:00-5:00 pm & 6:30-8:00 pm): SESSION I: June 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 9, 10, 11 SESSION II: June 16, 17, 18, 20, 23, 25, 26, 27 SESSION III: July 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 21, 22, 23
28
parks.decorahia.org
Enjoy our scenic trails for biking, roller blading, running, walking and cross-country skiing. Decorah Parks-Rec has 23 parks and recreational areas, totaling approximately 664 acres, and includes 20+ miles of off-road trails, picnic facilities, playgrounds and popular attractions such as the Dunnings’s Spring waterfall, Pulpit Rock overlook, Community Prairie and other scenic venues.
Special Programs parks.decorahia.org
We offer a full range of special summer programs and events that are open to the public.
parkrec@decorah.iowa.gov https://parks.decorahia.org P.O. Box 513 400 Claiborne Drive (City Hall) 563-382-4158 • FAX: 563-382-6525
decorahleader.com
Decorah’s new archery range at Will Baker Park. (Seth Boyes photo)
Decorah opens public archery range
The punctuated sound of an arrow tip piercing its target early this spring marked the official opening of Decorah’s new archery range in Will Baker Park, located at 243–341 Pulpit Rock Road, Decorah. Decorah Parks and Recreation Director Marc Holtey credited Decorah’s Sam Lewey and Drew Nielsen with proposing the creation of a local archery range. Lewey says he feels passionately about teaching youth to hone their archery skills and he initially mentioned the idea of establishing a public range in Decorah to Nielsen, who serves as the shop manager at Xpedition and Anthem Archery. “I’m just extremely excited for this to be resource to build community — friends and family coming together to be able to participate in a fun outdoor activity,” Lewey said. He went on to say some communities opt to establish public archery spaces in secluded areas, which he indicated can leave a range underused. He said a key component of creating the new Decorah range was identifying an area with ample space for safety while maintaining the range’s visibility to the general public. The city’s new archery range is open to the public between sunrise and sunset. Those under age 18 must be supervised by an adult, and only field points are to be fired on the city’s range.
DRIFTLESS FUN FACT: Hiking to the top of Pulpit Rock at Will Baker Park offers a scenic overlook of the city and the Community Prairie.
29
BLUFFTON BLUFFS Brenda Harris, LAC
309 W. Broadway Decorah, IA 563-382-9309
ACUPUNCTURE • QIGONG • HERBAL MEDICINE acupuncturecenterdecorah.com
Shear
Wonders FULL-SERVICE SALON
Stylists Belva Wemark & Krissy Bodensteiner
Bluffton Bluffs as seen from the Upper Iowa RIver below. (Siri Steven photo)
CUTS • COLORS • PERMS MANICURES • PEDICURES SHELLAC NAILS • WAXING
Bluffton Rd., Bluffton, IA Besides being a small corridor for hunting white-tailed deer and turkeys, the Bluffton Bluffs area offers incredible scenic views which are a defining feature of the Driftless region. A 20-acre strip of upland ends at the top of a 300-foot bluff overlooking the Upper Iowa River. The area is located off of Bluffton Road near the town of Bluffton. Follow Bluffton Road 1.2 miles west from the intersection with 244th Avenue. 30
213 E. Water St., Decorah
563-382-6231
SALON HOURS
Monday-Friday 8AM-5PM Saturday by appointment
110 Washington St. Ste #9 Decorah, IA 563-419-9063 saluwellness.com
CRYSTALS, ROCKS & FOSSILS SINGING BOWLS & SOUND HEALING TOOLS HANDMADE JEWELRY APPAREL OILS & CANDLES BOOKS & JOURNALS 130 W. Water St., Decorah (563) 387-6014 magicmorpho.com
INFRARED SAUNAS
RED LIGHT THERAPY
HALOTHERAPY COLD PLUNGE
Scan
to book now or visit
Vagaro.com/salu YOUR SELF-CARE SANCTUARY decorahleader.com
Fairfield By Marriot
Earn Rewards points and stay productive when traveling to Decorah. •••••••• Conveniently located near Luther College, Trout Run Trail, Seed Savers, Downtown Decorah & Vesterheim Norwegian-American Museum.
•••••••• Jump-start your day with a hot breakfast
•••••••• We’ll help you get it done with the courteous service you deserve and smartly designed lobbies and guest rooms with free Wi-Fi throughout the hotel.
•••••••• Indoor Pool and Fitness Center Free Wi-Fi Complimentary Breakfast Pet Friendly Picnic area Onsite Market Place Microwaves and Refrigerators in all rooms
2041 Iowa State Highway 9, Decorah | 563-382-8800
DRIFTLESS FUN FACT: Decorah has three waterfalls on the Iowa Waterfall Tour.
31
SWIMMING POOLS
Caledonia Aquatic Center 521 N. Winnebago St. (507) 725-2079 Calmar Pool 601 Pool Park Dr. (563) 380-0240 Chatfield Pool 214 Union St. NE (507) 867-3509
Cresco, Thomson Pool/ Cresco Fitness Center 316 3rd Ave. E (563) 547-3443
Decorah Municipal Pool 701 College Dr. (563) 382-2055 Edgewood City Pool 405 W. Madison St. (563) 928-6628
Elkader Municipal Pool 600 High St. SE (563) 245-1510
Guttenberg Municipal Pool 519 N. 3rd St. (563) 252-1109
Hokah (natural pool) 20 Como St. (507) 894-4990
Houston/Money Creek Haven (natural pool) 18502 County 26 (507) 896-3544
La Crescent Aquatic Center 608 S. 7th St. (507) 895-8712 Lansing Pool 490 Bench St. (563) 538-4343
Lime Springs Municipal Pool 201 Center St. (563) 566-2606
Monona Family Aquatic Park 601 W. Davis St. (563) 539-4516
Oelwein Family Aquatic Center 400 4th St. NE (319) 238-8160
Postville Pool 400 Wilson St. (563) 864-7690 Preston Pool 117 Park St. (507) 765-5408
Rushford Aquatic Center 209 Watt St. (507) 864-2983 Spring Grove Swim Center 600 Maple Dr. (507) 498-7946
Spring Valley Pool 1225 Broadway Ave. (507) 346-7367
Waukon Aquatic Center 1013 Rossville Rd. (563) 568-2514 West Union Aquatic Center North Pine St. (563) 422-5571
SPLASHPADS
Splash Park, New Albin, IA
Elma Splash Pad Located at Elma City Park (641) 393-2543
Harmony Splash Pad Trail Head Park, 2nd Ave. NW & 4th Street NW
Harpers Ferry Splash Pad Located next to the Community Center at 238 N. 4th St. 32
Lansing’s “The Big Splash” Located at South Front Street playground area (563) 538-4757 McGregor Turner Park Splash Pad West Main St. (563) 538-4757
New Albin Splash Park Located near tennis court (563) 873-3795 Riceville Splash Pad 302 Walnut St. (641) 985-2367
decorahleader.com
FREEPORT PARK
The Freeport Park, just off the Freeport Trail east of Decorah, features a zip line, rock wall and a mini city in addition to swings, slides and more. (Samantha Ludeking photo)
Don’t forget
dessert Soft-serve ice cream cones + dishes • slushies • food + more
Open daily 10am - 9pm walk-up window with outdoor seating
The
Whippy Dip 111 College Dr., Decorah • 563-382-4591
Play. Learn. Create.
902 Commerce Dr., Decorah 563-382-5717
sunflowerdecorah.com
State-of-the-art indoor play areas for children of all ages DISCOVERY CENTER HOURS Tue: 11AM-3PM Thur: 11AM-3PM, 5:30-8PM Fri: 5:30-8PM Sat: 9AM-8PM | Sun: 9-4PM
DAY PASS: $9 12 months and up
YEAR PASS: $250
DRIFTLESS FUN FACT: Decorah’s Vesterheim Norwegian-American Museum is the largest ethnic heritage museum in the US.
33
Christmas at Luther annually performs for packed house
Students perform during the annual Christmas at Luther concert in the college’s Center for Faith and Life. (Seth Boyes photo) 700 College Dr., Decorah, IA
Christmas at Luther is a yearly musical celebration marking the beginning of the Christmas season for many attendees, and it serves to bring Luther College and the broader community together — be they long-time local residents or first-year students acclimating to life in northeast Iowa. Hundreds of Luther students perform during the program each year. Holiday concerts have been part of the college’s history for generations. Christmas at Luther is held inside the main hall of Luther College’s Center for Faith and Life — a space capable of seating more than 1,400 people. “It’s an incredible event, where we get to showcase all that is good about Luther College, and then invite 8,000 to 10,000 people onto our campus and into our community to revel in how beautiful the downtown area is — just get a little bit of nostalgia about what a small-town holiday festival feels like,” said Andrew Last, artistic director of Christmas at Luther and the college’s director of choral activities. Visit luther.edu for information on the 2025 performances. Listeners can also enjoy the most recent performance by streaming the album Christmas at Luther 2024: Seeking Refuge for a Weary World. 34
A destination taproom with a rotating tap list!
207 College Dr. Decorah, IA - 563-380-3610
www.pulpitrockbrewing.net Stay up to date! Follow us @prbrewing
decorahleader.com
Designed
FOR EXPLORATION
At Luther College, students learn actively and build lives of impact on our stunning 1,000-acre campus. It’s a great place to bike, hike, take a tour, and enjoy nature.
2024-2028
HEARD OF THE DECORAH CRATER? Visit our exhibit in Valders Hall of Science. Learn about the incredible fossil record created by a meteorite strike on this area 465 million years ago and see a life-size model of a giant sea scorpion.
DECORAH, IOWA
luther.edu/events
(563) 387-2000
DRIFTLESS FUN FACT: The most famous fossil discovery from the Decorah Crater so far is Pentecopterus decorahensis, a giant sea scorpion.
35
NEIA ARTISTS’ STUDIO TOUR
Find art on your scenic Driftless drive October 10-12, 2025
The 28th Annual Studio Tour is set for October 10-12, 2025. Dozens of artists will open their doors for a behind-the-scenes studio view not usually offered to the general public. The Public is invited to drive around the scenic Driftless and experience many well-known award-winning artists displaying and selling pottery, paintings, woodcuts, baskets, jewelry, woodworking, kaleidoscopes, sculpture, collage, fiber arts and more. Tour participants can set their own pace while driving from studio to studio. Art enthusiasts are encouraged to visit iowaarttour.com in July for updated 2025 Tour information. The website features an interactive Google map showing studio locations, a full-color brochure with map, GPS information and available lodging and dining along the route. The tour is available free of charge, and all sites are located within 40 miles of Decorah, Iowa. Workspaces are open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. all three days. The Northeast Iowa Artists’ Studio Tour is Iowa’s first and longest running tour of artists’ studios in the state. For more information or for a brochure, call Winneshiek Development and Tourism 563-382-6061, visit www.iowaarttour.com or email tour@iowaarttour.com. Top- Metal artist Jenn Rose Novak in her Decorah studio. Inset- Stoneware pottery by George Lowe, Decorah
BLUFF COUNTRY STUDIO ART TOUR
The Bluff Country Studio Art Tour is held annually the last full weekend of April. Explore the art and scenery of southeastern Minnesota and northeastern Iowa. The self-guided tour features more than 25 artists, studios and galleries. Visitors can see artists at work, and shop for ceramics, turned wood, glass, fiber, sculpture, jewelry and much more. Hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Attendance is free. A map of participating locations is available at bluffcountrystudioarttour.org, and download the free Bluff Country Studio Art Tour app is available for download from the app store. Far right- Fiber art by Cheryl Lamon, Lanesboro, MN. Right- Fused glass by Andy & Jolene Rasmussen on display in Lanesboro, MN.
36
decorahleader.com
EVENT CENTER WEDDING VENUE OUTDOOR PATIO
Family-owned & operated
1966 337th St., Decorah, IA 563-735-5809
www.wwwinery.com
TASTINGS
Specializing in award-winning fruit & Midwestern grape table wine
RESTAURANT GIFTS
Share a day in the country Relax and take in the beautiful rolling hills of Northeast Iowa from our patio
Lillian Goldman Visitors Center V ISI T US GIFT & GARDEN STORE, A ND EXPLORE! GARDENS, TRAILS & MORE
10am to 5pm | 7 days a week 3074 N Winn Rd, Decorah, IA 52101 seedsavers.org/visit
Seed Savers Exchange turns 50 in 2025! Join us at Heritage Farm to celebrate half a century of mission-driven work to preserve America’s diverse and endangered garden and food crop legacy.
50TH ANNIVERSARY
CONFERENCE AND CELEBRATION
Scan for the latest event updates!
August 8-9, 2025
DRIFTLESS FUN FACT: Iowa is the first state to generate more than 57 percent of its electricity with wind power.
37
AMISH COUNTRY
Amish Buggy near Harmony, MN (Craig Johnson photo)
Residents of Harmony, MN, are quite used to seeing horses and buggies along the city streets. In fact, many local businesses have hitching posts to accommodate their many Amish customers. Nearly 1,000 Amish individuals call the countryside of rural Harmony home. One of the largest Amish settlements in the state, the “Old Order” families are often private and use limited technologies in their homes and
businesses. In the home, there is no electricity, telephone or indoor plumbing except cold water in the kitchens. Transportation is made via horse and buggy. Members of the “Harmony-Canton Amish” moved to the area in 1974. The group has grown to include more than 100 families and includes 10 church districts and 10 one-room schools, educating students through eighth-grade.
Secluded Country Cabin Close to the Harmony & Decorah trails, Root River and the Upper Iowa River
Families primarily make their livings by farming with horses, construction and craft-making. Popular items include baskets, furniture, rugs and quilts. On the sweeter side are homemade jams, baked goods and snacks. Many items are available for purchase at local farmers markets, roadside stands and at Amish homes. Watch for signage near Amish homes indicating items for sale.
BUGGY RIDES AVAILABLE
RENT OUR CABIN & USE THE BARN EVENT SPACE FREE! • Country cabin features 3 private bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, large kitchen, WiFi, electric fireplace, TV’s, Ping Pong Table and more! • Private fishing pond • Sleigh rides & ski slope open in winter (available with cabin rental) Amish Valley Cabin in the heart of the Amish community is located 2.5 miles northeast of Canton, MN. Our cabin has a nice secluded setting 1/4 mile off the paved black top road.
Ready to plan your stay or event? Visit www.amishvalleycabin.com or call 507-259-1454
38
decorahleader.com
Vintage. Modern. Unique.
Laura Ingalls Wilder PARK & MUSEUM
Museum tours capture the feeling of Burr Oak in 1870’s. Discover how Laura and her family lived and worked in Iowa. Adjacent picnic shelter beside Silver Creek. Replica covered wagon for picture taking.
Annual Laura Day Celebration
June 28-29, 2025 MUSEUM HOURS: May: Mon.-Sat. 10-4 June thru August: Mon.-Sat. 10-5 www.lauraingallswilder.us Sept. thru Oct.: Thurs.-Sat. 10-4 NO TOURS AFTER 3 P.M. 563-735-5916 3603 236TH AVENUE, BURR OAK, IA 52101
NEW + VINTAGE HOME DECOR FURNITURE FLORALS BOUTIQUE
OPEN THURSDAY - SUNDAY
3220 US Highway 52, Decorah, IA
shopmarket52.com
CAMPING • KAYAKING • CANOEING • FISHING
Shop Now!
SHUTTLE SERVICES KAYAK & CANOE RENTALS RIVERFRONT CAMPSITES RV ELECTRICAL HOOKUPS & SHOWERS SEASONAL SITES AVAILABLE HOT FOOD, COLD DRINKS & ICE NEW PLAYGROUND
Located on the Upper Iowa River in Bluffton, IA
563-735-5738
blufftonresort.com DRIFTLESS FUN FACT: Winnebago Indian Chief Winneshiek was an advisor to the War Chief Black Hawk.
39
LAURA INGALLS WILDER
Laura Ingalls WIlder Museum, Burr Oak, IA
Laura Elizabeth Ingalls Wilder (February 7, 1867 – February 10, 1957) was an American writer. The Little House on the Prairie series of children's books, published between 1932 and 1943, were based on her childhood in a settler and pioneer family. The television series Little House on the Prairie (1974– 1983) was loosely based on the books.
Laura Ingalls Wilder Museum 3603 236th Ave., Burr Oak, IA
In 1876, when Laura was nine years old, the Ingalls family left Walnut Grove, MN, after suffering through two years of grasshopper plagues. They traveled to Burr Oak, IA, to help manage the Masters Hotel, owned by their friend, William Steadman. The Masters Hotel is the only childhood home of Laura Ingalls Wilder that remains on its original site. It is registered on the National Register of Historical Places.
Washburn Zittleman House Exhibit & Spring Valley’s Methodist Church Museum 221 West Courtland St., Spring Valley, MN
Almanzo and Laura Ingalls Wilder attended this church from 1890-91. The church, now on the National Historic Register, has two floors of exhibits including Wilder photo displays, Conley Camera collection, Richard Sears exhibit and Pioneer event at the Methodist Church Museum, much more from that era. See an original PietenSpring Valley, MN pol Aircamper at the Ag building. 40
decorahleader.com
9 CABINS • GENERAL STORE • CAMPGROUND
DRIFTLESS FUN FACT: Narrow Gauge Railroad Engineer Frank Adam’s named Mabel, Minn., after his daughter in 1879.
41
NIAGARA CAVE CELEBRATES 100 YEARS 29842 County Rd. 30, Harmony, MN
Niagara Cave celebrated its 100th anniversary last summer, and owner Mark Bishop said he and his wife Jennifer made an excellent decision when they bought the cave, located just south of Harmony, MN., in 1995. “It’s been an adventure,” Mark said during the anniversary celebration. Mark said he’s been captivated by geology all his life. “I’ve always been fascinated by rocks and fossils,” Mark said. “Ancient history is locked up inside of them. When you imagine what was going on when a rock was being formed, it’s just mind-blowing.” Mark is in the process of retiring, and his sons Aaron and Ryan are taking over operations at the popular attraction. Rated one of the nation’s top 10 caves, Niagara Cave was discovered in 1924 and first opened for tours in 1934. It is one of only two publicly-accessible caves in Minnesota. “Travel far beneath the surface through stream-sculpted passages to experience the wonders of Niagara Cave,” information on the cave’s website said. “Within lies an underground waterfall, 450 million-year-old fossils and formations
Niagara Cave of rural Harmony, MN, is rated one of the nation’s top 10 caves. (Samantha Ludeking photo)
both delicate and massive.” For the 2025 season, the cave is open weekends in April and seven-days-a-week from May 1 through Nov. 2. For more information call 507886-6606 or visit niagaracave.com.
HISTORIC FORESTVILLE 21899 County Rd. 118, Preston, MN
Home to natural wonders above and below ground, Forestville State Park has something for everyone. Fish the trout streams or enjoy an afternoon of birdwatching – available to all visitors to the 3,000+ acre park. Featuring miles of trails, enjoy camping, get active with hiking, horseback and cross-country trails, enjoy cold water streams and view unique wildlife and birds. Forestville State Park offers cozy cabins and camping spaces, with all major amenities open from May 27 through September 3, 2023. Even in winter, this is truly a wonderland 42
Mystery Cave, Preston, MN
with snowmobiling trails, skiing, snowshoeing and hiking available. Mystery Cave, located five miles from the park, remains a crisp 48°F with underground pools, beautiful cave landscapes and over 13 miles of passages. For more information call Main Park at 507-3525111, or Mystery Cave at 507-937-3251.
decorahleader.com
HARMONY
Minnesota
Just 30 minutes from Decorah, this full-service community offers a variety of dining options, unique antiques, furniture and gift shops and exciting recreational opportunities. Explore Niagara Cave, tour the Amish countryside, pedal your way through 60 miles of paved bike trail and check out our splash pad! Harmony also offers a wide array of service businesses ready to meet your needs.
exploreharmonymn ExploreHarmonyMinnesota chamber@exploreharmony.com
2025 EVENTS
JUNE 19: Back Alley Jam feat. “The Paperclips”
Lauren Husting of the Paper Clips is a fiscal year 2024 recipient of a Creative Individuals grant from the Minnesota State Arts Board. This activity is made possible by the voters of Minnesota through a grant from the Minnesota State Arts Board, thanks to a legislative appropriation from the arts and cultural heritage fund.
JULY 3-5: Harmony’s 4th of July Celebration
HARMONY VISITOR CENTER
15 2nd St. NW, Harmony 507-886-2469
JULY 17: Back Alley Jam featuring The Lonely Knees JULY 21: 3rd Annual Chamber Golf Tournament AUG. 21: Back Alley Jam featuring Main Street Harmony SEPT. 20: Fall for Harmony OCTOBER: Monster Bash Oct. 10-11, 17-18, 24-26, 31, Nov. 1 OCT. 25: Haunted Harmony NOV. 29: Small Business Saturday DEC. 6: Breakfast with Santa/ Community Tree Lighting Ceremony DEC. 10: Holidays in Harmony
exploreharmony.com PHOTO CREDIT: J PHOTOGRAPHY AND DESIGN
DRIFTLESS FUN FACT: Harmony, MN features the largest Amish Community in the state.
43
ROOT RIVER
Root River near Lanesboro, MN (Craig Johnson photo) Southeast Minnesota’s Root River is an 80mile long tributary of the Mississippi River which offers canoers and kayakers a unique and scenic look at the Driftless Area. Formed by the junction of the rivers North Branch and Middle Fork near the city of Chatfield, the Root flows southeast toward the scenic town of Lanesboro, where it is joined by the South Fork. In these upper reaches the Root is smaller and quicker, containing cold water which flows past towering bluffs. The area provides ideal fishing for smallmouth bass and trout. Still fairly small and intimate, the Root flows east and is joined by yet another tributary, the South Branch, which flows from Mystery Cave and joins the Root River above the town of Whalan. The river continues past bluffs and at croppings until it hits the city of Rushford, where the landscape begins to change. The valley broadens considerably, and the river straightens out from that point. Canoers and kayakers there float through pasture land and areas covered with cottonwood and maple trees, with wooded bluffs in the distance. The Root ends its 80-mile journey at its confluence with the Mississippi River near the town of Hokah. From Chatfield to the Mississippi, the Root River falls 310 feet for an average drop of 3.4 feet per mile. Fishing and camping opportuni44
ties can be found along the Root River, as well as a popular paved bike trail, The Root River State Trail System, a popular paved bike trail, parallels the waterways for 35 miles between the towns of Fountain and Houston.
City of Lanesboro, Minnesota
SYLVAN & RIVERVIEW
Campgrounds
Within walking distance to the Root River, bike trail, dining, shopping, farmers market, theatre and art.
decorahleader.com
Refresh with beauty
Relax as you walk
Reminisce good times Revive your spirit
Recreate and laugh
Wine, Beer, Bourbon + Food Open evenings 5-8PM Closed Wednesday/Thursday
Explore
Options
to enjoy
3 Distinctive Properties Downtown Lanesboro RootRiverInn.com
CRAFT BEER + SPECIALTY COCKTAILS WINE + BLOODY MARYS
House-made FLATBREADS, WINGS + BURGERS
507-273-4100
?
TUES TRIVIA
THUR
OPEN MIC
HUGE OUTDOOR PATIO
102 Coffee St.W., Lanesboro, MN 507-475-8804
Where wilderness meets luxury…
Located just outside of historic Lanesboro, Minnesota, Bluff Country Retreat offers a cozy and private atmosphere for you and your group to relax and rejuvenate!
LIVE MUSIC
EVERY WEEKEND
Be at the heart of all that Lanesboro has to offer! Join us on the patio! Two decks overlooking the beautiful Root River Book the HCP Loft at
highcourtpub.com 109 Parkway Ave. N., Lanesboro, MN • 507-467-2782
651-214-3916
bluffcountryretreat.com 26557 Evening Drive, Lanesboro, MN
DRIFTLESS FUN FACT: Lanesboro is the Rhubarb Capital of Minnesota and hosts a famous Rhubarb festival each June.
3 bedrooms 12 twin beds 4 full bathrooms 2 spacious living areas Dining space Bar area Fully-stocked kitchen Fire pit Walking trails
Bunk House
available as add-on to main house or for couples getaways
45
DRIFTLESS MINNESOTA COMMUNITY CELEBRATIONS Brownsville Brownsville Days, June 27-29 Caledonia Founders’ Days, June 12-14 Wild Turkey Fest & Hot Air Balloon Rally, Oct. 17-19 Winter Wonderland Christmas Parade and Events, First Weekend in December Canton Canton Day Off, Aug. 15-17 Chatfield Western Days, Aug. 7-10 Eitzen Eitzen Family Fun Fest, July 3-4 Harmony Harmony July 4th Celebration, July 4 Fall For Harmony, Sept. 20 Monster Bash, Fridays & Saturdays Oct. 10-Nov. 1 Haunted Harmony Oct. 25 Holidays in Harmony December Dec. 10
Houston Houston Hoedown Days, July 25-27 La Crescent Applefest, Sept. 19-21 Lanesboro Rhubarb Fest, June 7 Art in the Park, June 14 Buffalo Bill Days, Aug. 1-3 Mabel Hesper-Mabel Steam Engine Days, Sept. 4-7 Ostrander Uff Da Day, July 12 Peterson Gammel Dag Fest, June 21 Christmas in Peterson, Dec. 13 Preston Trout Days, May 16-17
Rushford/City of Rushford Village Rushford Days, July 16-20 Parade of Lights, December Spring Grove Syttende Mai, May 14-18 Uffda Fest, Oct. 4 Spring Valley Fins & Films, July 11-12 Root River Antique Engine and Tractor Show, July 18-19 Ag Days, Aug. 11-17 Fillmore County Relay for Life, Sept. 13 Christmas on Historic Broadway, Dec. 13 Wykoff Fall Festival, Sept. 26-28
Flower crown-making and face painting are popular among youngsters at Gammel Dag festivities held in Peterson, MN. (Craig Johnson photo) 46
decorahleader.com
MEDALLION WALKING TOUR
Iron medallion on Lanesboro’s Discover Sculpture Explore Lanesboro Medallion Walking Tour (Lanesboro Arts photo)
SCRATCH COOKING
featuring locally-grown food
ENTREES • GRAIN BOWLS • BURGERS SANDWICHES • SALADS • CRAFT TAP BEER
www.pedalpusherscafe.com
Lanesboro, MN
The Discover Sculpture Explore Lanesboro Medallion Walking Tour features 20 iron medallions found throughout town, portraying different facets of the rich character of Lanesboro on each medallion. All objects and im121 Parkway Ave N., Lanesboro • 507-467-1050 ages in the medallions are from local sources either donated personal objects, impressions of objects or modeled objects made by workshop participants. Professional sculptors Coral Lambert and Karl Unnasch worked with community members in a public process to create cast iron medallions detailing the history and culture of Lanesboro. Each of the large anchor medallions are mounted on a cement pedestal, which have designs impressed into them made with local grasses. This self-guided tour begins at the Lanesboro Visitor Center and journeys up Church Hill, through Sylvan Park, to the historic dam and its hidden scenic overlook, across the Root River State Trail bike bridge to the Poetry Parking Lot at Bass Pond, along the historic walking bridge, and back through the rest of downtown.
Vegetarian and gluten free options available
Scan this QR code to access more information on the tour and a map Root River State Bike Trail Photo courtesy of Explore Minnesota & Ryan Taylor
DRIFTLESS FUN FACT: Rushford’s Magelssen Bluff is home to a 200+ year old Burr Oak Tree, one of the largest in the state.
47
Visit the
Valley
Visit the Visit the
Rushford Peterson Valley, a hidden gem in Southeast Minnesota'sMinnesota’s Driftless Area, Rushford Peterson Valley, a hidden gem in Southeast with space to breathe and explore! Driftless Area, with space to breathe and explore!
Valley Valley
2025 Schedule ofValley, Events Rushford Peterson a hidden gem in Southeast Minnesota's Driftless Area,
April Bluff Country Studio Art Tour with spacegem to breathe and explore! Peterson Valley, a hidden in Southeast Minnesota's Driftless Area, May Rushford SEMBA Bluegress Festival June Gammel Dag Fest, Petersonwith space to breathe and explore! July Rushford Days THINGS TO DO PLACES TO SHOP July Sunday Music Series, • Root River Bike Trail: • From basic necessities to Peterson Bandstand 60 miles of paved trail products unique to the Valley Bluff Country Studio Tour 2025 Schedule ofArtEvents AugApril Bluff Land Triathlon • Bluff Country Scenic Byway SEMBA Bluegress Festival April Rushford Bluff Country Art Tour AugMay MusicStudio Series PLACES TO EAT • Root River fishing, tubing Gammel Dag Fest,Festival Peterson May SEMBA SEMBABluegrass Bluegress Festival AugJune • Many local favorites and canoeing (new launch on July Days June 60Rushford Gammel Dag Fest, Peterson Sept Mile Garage Sale THINGS TO DO PLACES TO SHOP Kanoe Vei east of Highway 43 PLACES TO STAY Sunday Music Series, July Arts Rushford DaysFair TO DO • Root River Bike Trail: OctJuly & Crafts PLACES SHOPnecessities to THINGS • FromTObasic on the north bank of the river) July Peterson Sunday Music Series, • Lodging at inns, campgrounds Bandstand • Root River BikeofTrail: 60 miles paved trail • From basic unique necessities Dec Christmas in Peterson products to thetoValley Peterson Aug Bluff LandBandstand Triathlon and vacation rentals 60 miles of paved products unique to the Valley • Bluff Countrytrail Scenic Byway of Lights Aug Rushford Bluff LandParade Triathlon Aug Rushford Music Series PLACES TO EAT • Bluff• Root Country Byway RiverScenic fishing, tubing
2025 Schedule of Events
Aug SEMBA Music Series Aug Bluegrass Festival Find usRushford online for aFestival full list of Aug 60 SEMBA Sept MileBluegrass Garage Sale and events Sept activities 60 Mile Garage Sale Oct Arts & Crafts Fair Oct Arts & Crafts Fair www.rushfordpetersonvalley.com Dec Christmas in Peterson Dec Christmas in Peterson Rushford Parade of Lights Rushford Parade of Lights
PLACES TOlocal EAT favorites • Many
• Root River fishing, tubing and canoeing (new launch on and canoeing on 43 Kanoe Vei(new eastlaunch of Highway PLACES TO STAY KanoeonVeitheeast of Highway PLACES TO STAY north bank of43 the river) • Lodging at inns, campgrounds on the north bank of the river) • Lodging at inns, campgrounds and vacation rentals and vacation rentals • Many local favorites
Find foraafull fulllist listofof Find us us online online for activities andevents events activities and www.rushfordpetersonvalley.com www.rushfordpetersonvalley.com
48
decorahleader.com
A camper friendly campground
ENVIRONMENTAL LEARNING CENTER
located at the base of Magelssen Bluff in Rushford, MN
Rushford is a not-to-miss Located in rd destination fo h us R scenic located on the Root River
507-450-7195
Partially-wooded sites with easy access to the Root River Bike Trail Large 90 x 50 ft. sites Electrical hookups, water + sewer Seasonal, short or
bluffview@goacentek.net long-term
30 Bluffview Trailer Ct., Rushford, MN Reasonable rates
bluffviewcampground.com
Eagle Bluff Environmental Learning Center in Lanesboro, MN, 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to transforming lives through positive outdoor experiences. (Submitted photo)
Just off the Root River Trail
Whalan Depot
TRENDY • CHIC • STYLISH • FASHIONABLE
Womens clothing SIZES SMALL-3X
Follow the trail 4 miles from Lanesboro through woods & open countryside
JEANS • ACCESSORIES BAGS • SHOES • MAKEUP LOCALLY-MADE JEWELRY Not just a destination... it’s an experience!
EXPERIENCE OWLS
UP CLOSE AND PERSONAL
THE BOUTIQUE STATION 41178 Highway 16, Peterson, MN 507-875-2693
Open daily!
www.boutiquestation.net
Mon-Fri 10AM-6PM • Sat 10AM-5PM • Sun 12-5PM
DRIFTLESS FUN FACT: Rushford, MN was named for nearby Rush Creek in 1954.
Houston, Minnesota 507-896-OWLS (6957) InternationalOwlCenter.org
49
HOT AIR BALLOON RALLY Annual Hot Air Balloon Rally in Caledonia, MN. The 2025 event will be held Oct. 17-19 behind Caledonia High School. (Submitted photo)
Casa de outba
1,000 sq ft Fully furnished 2 be utbaCk wrangler room Morning Ridge Cabin with full kitchen & sq ft 12’x20’ Brand new cabin with MilesBunkhouse of well-groomed trails master bedroom, loft & ride or walk with queentobed & full 2 bedroom Nestle kitchen & bath full kitchen & bath hen & bath Daily trail use is available for Casa de outbaCk those who wrangler room by or Morning Ridge Cabin are close estled in the1,000 beautiful bluffs of Southeastern Minnesota sq ft 12’x20’ Bunkhouse Brand new cabin with traveling through the area master bedroom, loft & with queen bed & full Fully furnished 2 bedroom kitchen & bath
with full kitchen & bath
full kitchen & bath
Casa de outbaCk wrangler room Morning Ridge Cabin Country Wedding venue for 1,000 sq ft bluffs of Southeastern 12’x20’ Bunkhouse Brand new cabin with Nestled inparties, the beautiful Minnesota reunions, receptions master bedroom, loft & with queen bed & full Fully furnished 2 bedroom kitchen & bath full kitchen & bath with full kitchen& & bath or more! Miles of well-groomed trails
ls
r a
to ride or walk
Daily trail use is available for or those who are close by or traveling through the area
ns
s,
il
Country Wedding venue for parties, reunions, receptions & more! 300’x147’ outdoor arena Limited stalls with turnouts, Pens & Individual Pastures 2,500 acres of pristine Trail Riding
e
40 miles of private & State Trails
f
Connected to 100 miles of State Snowmobile Trails
,
overnigHt CamPing
Horse Trails, Hiking Trails, Snowmobile Trails
With electrical hookups
EXPERIENCE OF THE WEST ingOUTDOOR
E
kups
Nestled in the beautiful bluffs of Southeastern Minnesota
300’x147’ outdoor arena
Limited stalls with turnouts, Pens & Individual Pastures 2,500 acres of pristine Trail Casa de outbaCk 1,000 sq ft Riding Fully furnished 2 bedroom
Primitive CamPing overnigHt CamPing
Primitive CamPing Cabins rv HookuPs Primitive CamPing 40 miles of private & State bunkHouses Cabins Trails OUTDOORConnected EXPERIENCE to 100 miles of State Snowmobile Trails bunkHouses rv HookuPs overnigHt CamPing OF THE WEST
With electrical hookups
Limited stalls with turnouts, Pens & Individual Pastures
Horse Trails,2,500 Hiking Trails, acres of pristine Trail SnowmobileRiding Trails
Horse Trails, Hiking Trails, Snowmobile Trails
M
B ma
Nestled in the beautiful bluffs of Southeastern M
Country Wedding venue for
parties, reunions,miles receptions of Connected to 100 & more! State Snowmobile 300’x147’ outdoorTrails arena overnigHt CamPing
OUTDOOR EXPERIENCE OF THE WEST
50
with full kitchen & bath
Miles of well-groomed trails
to ride or walk 40 miles of private & State Daily trail use is available for those who are close by or Trails traveling through the area
wrangler room 12’x20’ Bunkhouse with queen bed & full kitchen & bath
rv HookuPs With electrical hookups
With electrical hookups
Cabins bunkHouses decorahleader.com
SHOP | DINE | STAY | PLAY
507-498-2022 SpringGroveAreaChamber@gmail.com SpringGroveAreaChamber.com SpringGroveMN.com
DRIFTLESS FUN FACT: The term ‘uff da’ is used as an all-round exclamation or a kind of very mild curse.
51
Located in beautiful downtown La Crosse, Wisconsin directly across from Bodega Brew Pub
NOT YOUR AVERAGE
Tacos CURATED BAR PROGRAM CATERING
HapPy Hour
JOIN US FROM 3-6PM TUESDAY-FRIDAY
OPEN 11AM-10PM TUESDAY-SATURDAY 127 4th St. S., La Crosse, WI 608-519-3036
www.taqueriapatoazul.com 52
decorahleader.com
Saxon Hall is your destination for the best pizza around.
702 MAIN STREET, BROWNSVILLE, MN 55919 507-482-4255 saxonhallpizza.com
ROOM AND BEER GARDEN AVAILABLE FOR RENT WE DO NOT ACCEPT CREDIT CARDS (ATM is available)
come a stranger, willleave leaveas asaafriend! friend! You You maymay come as aasstranger, butbut will
500 Front St. S., La Crosse, WI • 608-782-1000 • www.marriott.com/lsecy
DRIFTLESS FUN FACT: About 40 percent of North American migrating birds follow the Mississippi Flyway migration route through the Driftless Area. 53
FISHING
While some outdoor activities in the Driftless Region are dictated by season, fishing is literally a year-round activity. Anglers lure their catch from the first open waters of spring, to the pleasant days of summer, through the crisp air of fall, before drilling holes through the ice before the cycle begins again. The Driftless is a region of streams and rivers. The glaciers that scoured basins to create ponds and lakes elsewhere in Iowa never reached this area, so most of the water here flows. The speed of the regions waterways may be dictated by terrain or time of year, and the size can range from a tiny brook which can be stepped across, to the sprawling Mississippi River. But that moving water is the perfect path to transport a fisherman from one adventure to the next. There are types of many fish, lingering in the next bend pool, waiting behind a stream-dividing boulder or idling just downstream of a gurgling rapids. Here’s just a peek at the signature species of the Driftless. Walleye: The Midwest is recognized as a world-class walleye fishery, and the Driftless certainly contributes to that reputation. In addition to incredible spawning runs on the Mississippi and its tributaries, walleye offer action throughout the open water season and into the ice fishing season on the backwaters. Bass and pike: Smallmouth bass are abundant in the Driftless, with strong populations occurring in virtually every Mississippi tributary. Largemouth bass and pike can be found in the expansive backwaters of the Big River, where they thrive near weed beds and other structures. Panfish: Bluegill, crappie and perch rank high on many Driftless angler’s “list of favorites” lists. Not only are panfish found in so many different waters, they provide constant, year-round action and some of the best eating this side of your favorite fish fry.
Fishing the Little Turkey River at Waucoma, IA (Stephanie Langreck photo)
Trout Fishing
For license requirements and more visit: https://www.dnr.state.mn.us/fishing/index.html https://www.iowadnr.gov/fishing https://nationaltroutcenter.org/visit-ntc/driftless-area/
Every year, thousands of devoted anglers make pilgrimages to western trout rivers with storied reputations. Only a handful of those voyagers recognize that they’re driving past some of the regions best trout water as their vehicles leave the Driftless Region. There are literally hundreds of stream miles for Driftless trouters in the combined waters of northeast Iowa and southeast Minnesota. There is more opportunity than most imagine. Want to finesse a wild brook trout with genetics 54
found nowhere else in America? Got it. Tangle with a brown that needs to be you might measured with a yardstick and not a ruler? Check. Take home a limit of gorgeous rainbows that look as amazing as they taste? The Driftless has them. All this fishing can be had on streams so scenic they demand photography, and the only company on most days is a whitetail deer, or a mink, or a peacefully grazing herd of Holsteins. Take that epic western trouting adventure...then check out the streams of the Driftless. The waters will welcome everyone back anytime.
decorahleader.com
Liquor, Beer & Wine
CITY PARK WAUKON
scan
TO VIEW OUR FEATURED PRODUCTS
Indian Springs Pond at Waukon’s City Park. Walking trails connect the pond to the park’s campground area. (Samantha Ludeking photo)
Sycam e Fl al
We deliver!
STATE MINIMUM ON ALL CIGARETTES VAPE PENS AVAILABLE AT GREAT PRICES
618 Rossville Rd, Waukon, IA (563) 568-2153
OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK! Mon-Thur 7:15-7; Fri-Sat 7:15-9; Sun 9:30-4
Waukon City Park Picnic shelters Walking trails Camping
64 Acr
OF OPEN PAes RK
Indian Springs Pond Hideaway Park wooden playground
Swimming pool • Disc golf Volleyball • Horseshoes • Softball
Golf & bowling
Shops, Lodging & restaurants Wellness Center
cityofwaukon.com 563-568-3491 WaukonIowa
Historical sites DRIFTLESS FUN FACT: Waukon is considered the Cheese Curd Capital of Iowa. 55
DRIFTLESS AREA EDUCATION & VISITOR CENTER 1944 Columbus Road, Lansing, IA The cultural, recreational, natural, and historical significance of the Driftless Area is the primary focus of the interpretive exhibits at the Driftless Area Education and Visitor Center. Featuring three levels and 10,000 sq. ft., the building is nestled beneath limestone bluffs with scenic river views, including a view of the Black Hawk Bridge and it’s replacement being built along side of it. Let your imagination flow down to the river landing, where the waters of Village
Driftless Area Visitors Center, Lansing, IA (Samantha Ludeking photo)
Creek gently converge with the Mississippi River near Lansing, Iowa. Imagine a place once bustling with clanking tools and shouts of fishermen hauling in the day’s catch; the low, mournful sound of the steamboat
whistle echoing through the steep bluffs and along the sacred, earthen mounds. Towering glaciers passed around this very spot—scraping and scouring all but this land, a breathtaking region known as the Driftless Area.
DRIFTLESS AREA WETLANDS CENTRE 509 US-18, Marquette, IA
Nestled in the bluffs of northeast Iowa, the Driftless Area Wetlands Centre provides fun and interactive learning experiences through nature exploration and discovery. At the family-friendly center, learn to identify flowers, frogs, fish and even take a photo with a replica bald eagle nest. Also featured are guided wetland exploration, duck and bird displays, geology displays, live animals, accessible trails, wetlands observation deck, touch and feel mammal mounts, a gift shop and more. Children can check out the 56
Driftless Area Wetlands Centre, Marquette, IA Photo provided by Driftless Area Wetlands Centre
new nature nook, visit the nature play trail or the fossil dig sand pit. Staff are on hand to assist and necessary equipment is provided. The visitor center is open to
the public at no cost. For more information, visit www.driftlessareawetlandcentre.com or find the center on Facebook.
decorahleader.com
VISIT THE CHEESE CURD CAPITAL OF I O W A ! Summer Hours:
Mon-Sat 8am-9pm Sun 10am-9pm
Make WW Homestead Dairy a stop on your next adventure!
TASTE FARM-FRESH CHEESE CURDS AND ICE CREAM TOURS AVAILABLE! 563.568.4950
850 Rossville Road., Waukon, IA www.wwhomesteaddairy.com
Located on DAILY SPECIALS the banks of A small town supper Crooked Creek club famous for and nestled broasted chicken, Friday night fish fry, between the and Saturday night beautiful prime rib bluffs of DINE-IN OR Freeburg, OUTDOOR SEATING MN. AVAILABLE
Little Miami
BAR & RESTAURANT 507-724-2156 5367 County 249 CALEDONIA, MN
FOLLOW US FOR CURRENT HOURS
DRIFTLESS FUN FACT: Iron Hill near Waukon is the highest point in Allamakee County.
57
GOLF COURSES Big Rock Country Club 9684 146th St., Fayette, IA (563) 425-3687
Chosen Valley Golf Club 1801 Main St. S., Chatfield, MN (507) 867-4305 Cresco Country Club 22005 115th St., Cresco, IA (563) 547-2374
Elkader Golf and Country Club 24361 Gunder Rd., Elkader, IA (563) 245-2230 Ferndale Golf Course 23239 State Hwy. 16, Rushford, MN (507) 864-7626
Gator Greens Mini Golf 439 Half St., Whalan, MN (507) 251-5101
Green Valley Getaway 78 16th Ave. NW, Waukon, IA (563) 568-4866 Guttenberg Golf Course 28126 US-52, Guttenberg, IA (563) 252-1423
Harmony Golf Club 535 4th St. NE, Harmony, MN (507) 886-5622 Jackson Heights Golf Course 3249 Golf Course Ln., Jackson Junction, IA (563) 776-9181 Lanesboro Golf Club 1000 Parkway Ave. S., Lanesboro, MN (507) 467-3742
Ma Cal Grove Country Club 15939 State 76, Caledonia, MN (507) 725-2733 58
Silver Springs Golf & Country Club, Ossian , IA (Becky Walz photo) Maple Heights Country Club 200 Wood St., Elma, IA (641) 393-2120 New Hampton Golf & Country Club 2074 Panora Ave., New Hampton, IA (641) 394-4340
River Bend Golf Course at Old Barn Resort 24461 Heron Rd., Preston, MN (507) 467-2512 Oneota Golf & Country Club 1714 Golf Rd., Decorah, IA (563) 382-4407 Pine Creek Golf Course 3815 N. Pine Creek Rd., La Crescent, MN (507) 895-2410
Pleasant Valley Sports Club & Golf Course 24749 Canoe Rd., Clermont, IA (563) 423-7396 Preston Golf & Country Club Hwy 16 W., Preston, MN (507) 765-4485
Riceville Country Club 402 W. Main St., Riceville, IA (641) 985-2447
Rivers Bend Golf Course at the Old Barn Resort 24461 Heron Rd., Preston (507) 467-2512
Riverview Greens Golf & Banquet Center 1800 Clubhouse Dr. NE, Stewartville, MN (507) 533-9393
Silver Springs Golf and Country Club 1392 Co. Rd. W42, Ossian, IA (563) 532-8904
Silvercrest Country Club 2772 College Dr., Decorah, IA (563) 382-5296 South Winn Country Club 2585 175th St., Calmar, IA (563) 562-3191
Tri City Golf Club 16739 Diplomat Rd., Luana, IA (563) 539-4435 Valley High Golf Club 9203 T-243, Houston, MN (507) 894-4444
Waukon Golf & Country Club 308 1st St., SE, Waukon, IA (563) 568-9939
Woods Edge Golf Course 504 W. Union St., Edgewood, IA (563) 928-6668
decorahleader.com
Saturdays 10-5 & Sundays 1-5 | May - Sept. Open Fridays 4-8pm We use mainly locally grown berries & ferment whole Closed January
fruit for the best tasting “TRUE TO THE FRUIT”
We use mainly locally grown berries & ferment whole fruit for the best tasting “TRUE TO THE FRUIT” unfiltered unfiltered wines! wines! Saturdays 10-5 & Sundays 1-5 | May - Sept. Open Fridays 4-8pm Closed January
Book your next ev ent in our NEW wi nery building! Boo your next k eve nt in our NEW win ery buildin g!
Non-Wine Products
Non-Wine Products
Event EventVenue Venue
ciders & seltzer • Hard
• CATERING AVAILABLE
We use mainly locally grown berries & ferment whole fruit for the best tasting • 10 taps of craft beers • Seating for up to 200 people “TRUE TO THE FRUIT” unfiltered wines! • Hard ciders & seltzer • CATERING AVAILABLE • Domestic canNon-Wine beers made from our 100-year-old family barn Products• BuildingEvent Venue
• 10 taps of craft beers • Seating up to 200 people www.emptynestwinery.com | Dave & Pam Kruger | for 1253 Apple Rd., Waukon, IA | (563) 568-2758 • Domestic can beers
• Building made from our 100-year-old family barn
www.emptynestwinery.com | Dave & Pam Kruger | 1253 Apple Rd., IA | (563) 568-2758 Waukon,
1350 9th St SW, Waukon 563-568-2388
Tue-Thu 11AM-8PM • Fri-Sat 11AM-9PM
IOWA’S FRESH BURGERS SEAFOOD WINGS SANDWICHES HOME-COOKED LUNCH SPECIALS PIZZAS DESSERTS
#1 PORK TENDERLOIN PRIVATE PARTY/ MEETING ROOM
available!
IN 2022
AXE-THROWING
THU 4-8PM • FRI 4-9PM • SAT 12-9PM
DRIFTLESS FUN FACT: Iowa has the third highest motorcycle ownership in the nation with more than 1 per 18 residents.
59
Mount Hosmer MT. HOSMER“LOST “LOSTTrails” TRAILS”
Location: Lansing, IA Length: 8 Miles Difficulty: Varies
Lansing, Iowa
one-of-a-kind, 50-some-acre Mount Hosmer Veteran’s Memorial Park was created gPost 50 of the Iowa department of the American Legion in 1922. Located on a bluff urnfeet above the river, the park has one of the best views of any city park in the esB450 Glynn st.
Point
V
Vets
• STRONG POINT: Overlooking the center of town: “Dedicated to the memory of Robert Strong who made the supreme sacrifice for his country in the World War, battle of Meuse-Argonne, October 2, 1918.”
e
• GLYNN POINT: Overlooking the west end of town: “Dedicated to the memory of George R. Glynn who made the supreme sacrifice for his country in the World War at Bois de Gesme, battle of the Meuse-Argonne, October 5, 1918.”
St . Di ag on al
Maintaining Your Rural & Residential Assets
Bruce Kilmer 608-778-1336 E-mail: bakdev@mwt.net
www.aplusmllc.com
Th eE d
Th 10-5 • FR 10-4 • Sa 10-3 • Su 10-2
Driftless Gypsy Boutique
usive E Size Incl BOUTIQUg carryin S-3XL
CLOTHING, JEWELRY, HOME GOODS & More!
563-293-1797
#109
Work Space Unlimited Coffee High Speed Internet map #516 $15/day or $25/week LansingOfficeWorks.com Work where you play Lansing, IA
319.360.8274 www.easkerart.com
Original oil paintings prints and cards Unique found material collages
#202 Open 10-5 Friday & Saturday First two full weekends of every month.
Lansing Variety
60
Horsfall’s
Trail map courtesy of Main Street Lansing, Northeast Iowa RC&D and the City of Lansing.
“The one thing you need and a million items you don’t”
ansing IA Map 2024.indd 2
Mon-Sat 9:00-5:00 Sun noon-4:00 City map #203
Quarry
221 Main Street Lansing, IA
Park Shelter Playground
Public Welcome! (563) 538-4956
Scenic Overlook
Trailhead Kiosk
M OE LLE R S DEN T IST RY.COM
Historic Site
ba
An all-veterans memorial sits just ahead of the road loop atop the bluff. Three overlooks are dedicated in memory of three Lansing soldiers who lost their lives during WWI. • BECK POINT: Overlooking the Mississippi river in memory of William E. Beck. • STRONG POINT: Overlooking the center of town in memory of Robert Strong. • GLYNN POINT: Overlooking the west end of town in memory of George R. Glynn. 1ST & 3RD SUMMER THURSDAYS, 4-6PM
Restroom
Parking
Scan to come eat, play & stay with us! ~ map #407 ~
Road
563- 538- 4673 D OW N TOW N # 60 4
Strong Point
SUMMER HOURS Monday-Saturday: 8am–2pm Sunday: 8am–1pm
e
ge
BREAKFAST AND LUNCH
Strong Point
y Barn Ed
ge
60 S FRONT STREET, LANSING | #301 ON MAP
Ba rn y
yc
LansingIowa.com
• BECK POINT: Overlooking the Mississippi river: “Dedicated to the memory of William E. Beck who made the supreme sacrifice for his country in the World War at Fismes, Battle of Aisnes-Marne, August 4, 1918.”
MAPS
An all-veterans memorial sits just before the road loop atop the bluff, and in 1928 flag poles and memorial tablets were placed at three overlooks in memory of three etslives in WWI. The tablets name the soldiers and Lansing soldiers who lost their their dates of death:
(563) 538-9229
LansingIowa.com
#LANSINGIOWA
okies H Ho ideo ut
Guide to...
osmer Veterans Park and the LOST Trails
unt Hosmer iso p named for Harriet Hosmer, a sculptor, who won a footrace to the summit he hill during t Lo a steamboat layover in the 1850s. Recently, volunteers developed more kou miles of hiking trails, called the LOST Trails, or Lansing Old School Trails. In o oseven Lan 022, this trail system was enhanced with map kiosks and signage that marks the trails, including three diverse out-and-back loops.
GET CONNECTED
Lansing’s Your 50-some-acre Guide to...Mount Hosmer Veteran’s Memorial Park Mt. Hosmer Veterans Park is located Lansing’s on a bluff which rises Mount 450Ho one-of-a-kind, 50-some-acre through Post 50 of the Iowa department of the feet above the Mississippi river. that rises 450 feet above the river, the park ha TheMidwest. park has one of the best Hosmer is named for Harriet Hosme viewsMount city park in thein th ofof the any hill during a steamboat layover seven miles of hiking trails, called th Midwest.than Recently, volunteers 2022, this trail system was enhanced wit including three diverse out-and-back l developed more than seven An all-veterans memorial sits just be miles of and hiking flag poles memorialtrails, tablets we Lansing soldiers who lost their liv called Lansing their dates of death: Old BECK POINT: Ove School Trails • or LOST. to the memory of Thece trail sacrifi for his c Aisnes-Marne, Au system has • STRONG PO “Dedicated been enhanced the suprem of Me withbattle map • GL kiosks and tow signage.Gly co
3/14/2024 9:51:23 AM
decorahleader.com
EFFIGY MOUNDS NATIONAL MONUMENT 151 Hwy 76 Harpers Ferry , IA The mounds preserved at this National Monument are considered sacred by many Native Americans, especially the Monument’s 20 culturally associated American Indian tribes. A visit offers opportunities to contemplate the meanings of the mounds and the people who built them. The 200-plus American Indian mounds are located in one of the most picturesque sections of the Upper Mississippi River Valley. The monument offers sev-
YELLOW RIVER
One of Iowa’s most scenic waterways, the Yellow River begins its journey in the farm fields of eastern Winneshiek County and stretches for more than 50 miles to its confluence with the Mississippi River north of Marquette. Paddling the Yellow River offers views of some of the most diverse landscapes in Iowa. The 14-mile stretch above the town of Volney is generally recognized as the first navigable section of the Yellow River; in
eral hiking trails which lead visitors through the scenic landscape and past the various mounds. The trails range in difficulty and length, allowing visitors of all ages and abilities to explore the area. Hiking trails lead to several scenic overlooks within the monument and provide views of the Mississippi River. The visitor center provides exhibits about the history and significance of the effigy mounds. Visitors can also learn about the cultures which built the mounds and the archaeological research conducted at the site. these areas, access to the intimate, faster-flowing water is a challenge but, with adequate water levels, the reward is a quicker ride and excellent fishing for brown and rainbow trout. The middle section of the Yellow River has a kind of split personality. The four-mile stretch between the city of Volney and the Sixteen Bridge in Allamakee County is a short, popular afternoon trip that features sharp bends and beautiful bluffs, but relatively mild
OPEN DAILY MAY-OCTOBER
Reserve www.spookcave.com Online! spookcave@spookcave.com
What do the Effigy Mounds Represent?
Clues can be found in American Indian legends and mythology and, to a lesser extent, scientific research. The stories and legends of the Native Americans whose ancestors built the mounds describe the effigy mounds as ceremonial and sacred sites. Archeologists believe the effigy mounds delineated territories of choice for gathering and hunting grounds.
flows. The current picks up on the stretch between the Sixteen Bridge to the Yellow River access and is generally considered the most challenging. In its lower reaches, the Yellow River slows considerably as it enters the Yellow River State Forest in its final seven miles. The YRSF is one of only four state forests in Iowa and includes the Effigy Mounds National Monument, where more than 200 Indigenous burial sites are located.
VACATION RENTAL
One block from the Mississippi
DRIFTLESS FUN FACT: The Mississippi River starts in Minnesota out of the glacial lake, Lake Itasca, and meanders to the Gulf of Mexico.
61
9
e ek
st
e F ore
7
d.
Lar
R 210th St.
W14
2
Town Line Rd.
Paint Creek Unit
t Sta
Y5
Cr
r l ook
rts
/
C re ek
Ro
be
. ry Rd S l atte
Location: Harpers Ferry, IA Length: 20+ Miles Turkey River Diffi culty: Varies Recreational Corridor
S High St. 53 250th St.
Kelly Rd.
Little Paint Creek52 (LPC) Campground . Rd
5
285th St.
Y
er
HW
8
i nt
W14
YELLOW RIVER STATE FOREST TRAILS
02 S Main St. 423 S High St.
9
HWY 9
HW
13
v
Li t tle P a
th St. 250 Ri
4
ng
Tur k ey
240th St.
47
k
e
Ov
a r Rd.
Middle Cal m
d.
nt Cre e P ai
k
eF o
Donahu
York Ave
d.
R er ov on
H W Y 13
in H i l l
C
ne Rd.
ey Tu r k R ive r
White P The trails at Yellow Riv1 52 R i / 200th St. 14 miles of trail er State Forest prove Iowa is Big Paint195th St. Dvorak Mem Hwy Campground PROTIVIN anything but flat. Expect steep Rd. 6 22i SPILLVILLE em Hw climbs rewarded with stunning y M k ra rest R d . Dvo overlooks and views. Biking 3 B16 2 Creekside t St a Campground e is allowed only on designated Rd. h Trail Access Parking 16 17 3 trails in Paint Creek and Luster 19g. Paint Creek Unit, 729W14 State Forest Rd., Harpers Ferry CALMAR Heights Units. Some trails are 52 / Parking, White Pine Rd. Park Office . multi-use, and bikers should Forest20 Rd. (East) | Surface: Paved Trail | Difficulty: Easy Parking,| State Location: Winneshiek & Howard County Length: miles Lo Historic Firetower Ponyhikers Hollow Trailand horseback yield to 4 Description: The Prairie Farmer Recreational Trail stretches from Cresco through Ridgeway to Calmar S Parking, Donahue Rd. (South) 14 miles and agricultural abandoned o Donahue Rd. land. (North)The quiet trail primarily follows the Parking, riders. All trailsalong in scenic Paintwoodlands, Rock meadows, of trail (South) Milwaukee Railroad line for a smooth, flat, and easy twenty-mile ride that offers great opportunities for fo LPC Campground 5 (North) Unit are 4hiking only. LPC Campground Count | Length: miles | Surface: Ponynative Hollow -wildflowers and wildlife. Do viewing The trail is named for a radio show once broadcast in the Midwest o Po
d. ort R Airp
low C Hol ny
P aint
ek Cre
Fi r e
to
k ree
rR we
d
ar
. Rd
co
Rd .
364
Mississippi Riv
ill S
M
Pa
Rd.
i nt R ock R d.
Y 36
10Apple
Rd.
HW
Ha
g rdin
2
4
Unit
9
t s R d.
er
CLERMONT Paint 2 miles of trail Rock gh
4
11
4 miles of trail
t.
i sipp Missis
t Lus er Hei
4 miles of trail
HWY
ing
A Ave
Rd
. rd
Paint Rock Rd.
Ha
2 miles of trail
1
R iv e
Tu r k
Mountain Valley Bridge, 24079 Canoe Rd. Bike Trails G
old 1810 Agate Rd. Elgin Trailhead, en Northeast Resource Conservation and Pikes PeakIowa Rd. Rd. 22580 A Ave. Nature Center, Development works with partners throughout Campground 7d the region to explore natural resource-based economic development County | Length: 11 miles / 2.8 Miles of Mtn Bike Trailopportunities while at culty: Varies | Description: Pikes Peak State Park is one Trail Access Parking the same time protecting ns, located along a National Scenic Byway and famed and enhancing natural guide was sponsored and supported 7c. Dunning’s Spring Park oint Ann Trail offers challenging mountain biking. All Dunning's Spring Park, Ice Cave Rd. Northeast Iowa Tourism Association. theVeilQR here to browse but resources. provide breathtaking Scan views of Bridal Falls orcode the Parking Area, Quarry Hill Rd. (South) collaborative group that works i regional and Wisconsin Rivers. 7d. Van Peenen Park their publications. to promote tourism for the region. Parking Area, Quarry Hill Rd. (North)
Main St.
32
23+ miles of trail
ELGIN Qu
arry H
12
4 ill R
d.
Location: Elgin/Clermont in Fayette County Length: 7 miles Surface: Paved Trail Van Difficulty: Easy Peenen Park Description: The Turkey River Recreational Corridor connects three Ice Cave communities (Clermont, Elgin, and State Preserve
ill Rd .
&Recreation Larrabee School, 505 Larrabee St.
7e. Palisades Park
A Ave
on d
Giant Eagle’s Nest
Six C gr
decorahleader.com r ry H
Rd .
le
3
Di
NORTHEST IOWA RC&D
Turkey River
Many additional informative Recreational Corridor 30 publications by Northeast Iowa RC&D canTrails be found at 7 (c-f). Decorah Mountain Bike northeastiowarcd.org 10 Decorah Trail Access Parking or scan this tail Rd. Drake Rd. 31 code White 10. Turkey River Rec. Corridor Trail 3 QR 5 Bridge, 5514 Great River Rd. Ea g
49
Difficulty: Varies | Description: The trails at Yellow River State Forest prove that Iowa is anything but flat. Expect steep climbs rewarded with stunning overlooks and views. Biking R is allowed onlyiveon r designated trails in Paint Creek and Luster Heights Units. Some trails are multi-use and bikers should yield to 3 hikers and horseback riders. All trails in Paint Rock . Unit areahiking only. Rd m ey
21. Pikes Peak State Park McGregor Parking, 128 River Rd. Homestead Parking, 15316 Great River Rd. Main Parking, 32264 Pikes Peak Rd.
Canoe Rd.
r
Location:of Harpers Ferry in Allamakee County RC&D. | Length: 20+ miles | Surface: Single Track & Soft Trail map courtesy Northeast Iowa 245th St.
Trail Access Parking
62
ver
R le
er
d.
Great River Rd .
Rd .
sip pi Ri issis M
Ea g
Riv
l Rd C r y sta .
Tu rk ey
Luster Heights
NO MAP
e
Point
10. Turkey River Rec. Corridor Trail
es Peak State Park
1
n
d
e
MAP LEGEND
C
u ah
19h. Luster Heights, Harpers Ferry rail | Difficulty: Varies | Description: The River Walk and is well-marked with emergency481 signage. Luster Heights Rd. Elkader, crossing the Keystone Bridge to the City Park and 19i. Paint Rock Unit, Harpers Ferry ur-mile, lime chipped Pony Hollow Trail offers one of the it meanders the banks of the Turkey River and Roberts 621 Paint Rock Rd. multi-use trail, including horseback riding. Bikers Yield. 751 Hwy 364 Rd.
PIZZA • LIVE MUSIC
FROZEN DRINKS • BEER SELTZERS • LIQUOR
OPEN FRI-SUN 11AM- CLOSE
Attention: Events may be subject to change. Visitors are encouraged contact individual organizations or businesses with questions or to confirm event details. Area organizations and businesses which would like to be included in the 2026 Destination Driftless Guide, may contact the Decorah Leader by calling 563-3824221 or by emailing samantha.ludeking@ decorahleader.com no later than April 1, 2026.
DRIFTLESS FUN FACT: The Yellow River is Iowa’s longest and largest cold water trout stream.
63
4 13
Trail Access Parking
RIVERWALK & PONY HOLLOW TRAILS
Kelly Rd.
Y
22h. Riverwalk Founders Park, 302 S Main St. Elkader St. City Park, 423 S High St.
th St. 250
HW
igh
13
rts
Cr
e ek
Turkey River Recreational Corridor
St.
e Riv
d St.
Po int Rd . Ri ve r
low C Hol ny
22h
Riverwalk Trail
y
Po
Tu r k e
22i
d. ort R Airp
Straw be rry
3
k ree
56 HW
Y
13
The River Walk leads trail enthusiasts through downtown e White P 1 i Elkader, crossing the Keystone Bridge to the CityBig Park and Pony Paint Hollow Trail. Campground The flat, 4-mile, k lime-chipped Pony Hollow Trail nt Cre e P ai offers one of thest Rregion’s most re d . scenic rides as it meanders the 2 t a t S banks of the Turkey River and Access Pony ParkingHollow RobertsTrailCreek. Creek Unit, Trail 19g. is aPaint multi-use trail, includ729 State Forest Rd., Harpers Ferry ing horseback riding. Bikers Rd. are Parking, White Pine Park Office to yield. eF o
a
2n
St. gh Hi
t.
1
Pony Hollow Trail
H W Y 13
tS
rW
1s
2
Unit
ne Rd.
ELKADER
lk
Location: Elkader, IA Length: 4 Miles Paint Creek Difficulty: Varies
Ov
ge id Br
Visitor 51 Center
Ro
St. ak O
be
. ry Rd S l atte
H Hollow Trail 22i. Pony Elkader Pool, 601 S High St. Parking Area, 21353 250th St.
Pony Hollow Trail 265th St.
Trail map courtesy of Northeast Iowa RC&D.
Location: Elkader in Clayton Count | Length: 4 miles | Surface: Pony Hollow Granular; Riverwalk - Paved Trail | Difficulty: Varies | Description: The River Walk leads you through downtown Elkader, crossing the Keystone Bridge to the City Park and Pony Hollow Trail. The flat, four-mile, lime chipped Pony Hollow Trail offers one of the region’s most scenic rides as it meanders the banks of the Turkey River and Roberts Creek. Pony Hollow Trail is a multi-use trail, including horseback riding. Bikers Yield.
EARTHMOVING LEGACY CENTER
Parking, State Forest Rd. (East) Historic Firetower FindMap Legend onRd. page 62. Parking, Donahue (South) Parking, Donahue Rd. (North) LPC Campground (South) LPC Campground (North) 19h. Luster Heights, Harpers Ferry 481 Luster Heights Rd. 19i. Paint Rock Unit, Harpers Ferry 621 Paint Rock Rd. 751 Hwy 364 Rd.
21. Pikes Peak State Park Bu e ll Av e
.
Luster Heights
St
50
M ai n
MCGREGOR
76
Great R iver Rd.
i sipp Missis
1
R iv e
Company. It came about as a way for John Moyna to share 21 The Earthmoving Legacy his large collection with the public, whether they’re an avid Center is a 38,000 square-foot Trail Access Parking tractor fan or a class of curifacility to showcasing the rich 21. Pikes Peak State Park ous students. In Rd. creating the Parking, 128 River McGregor history earthmoving. The colParking, 15316 Great River Rd. Homestead Earthmoving Legacy Center, lection spans from the 1880s X56 Main Parking, 32264 Pikes Peak Rd. organizers have had the opporto 1940, focusing primarily on the evolution of the Caterpillar tunity to allow other collectors 24412 IA-13, Elkader, IA
r
64
t Lus er Hei
gh
t s R d.
Earthmoving Legacy Center, Elkader, IA (ELC photo)
to loan their pieces as well, to help showcase early track-type tractors from Caterpillar, Holt Manufacturing and Location: C.L. Harpers Best Difficulty: Varies | Manufacturing. Theanything collection but flat is allowed only o features approximately 50 earmulti-use and bi ly pieces, ranging from horseUnit are hiking on drawn earthmoving equipment to items from the 1940s era.
7 decorahleader.com (c-f). Deco
mances Live perfor by professional entertainers
& award-winning community theater
Seasonal
Patio Dining
Play outdoors by day, see a play at night
14,000 SQ. FT. OF UNIQUE SHOPPING ANTIQUES ◆ GIFTS PRIMITIVES COLLECTIBLES ROCKS ◆ MINERALS FOSSILS
Something For Everyone! Open Monday - Saturday 9:30am - 4:30pm Sunday 12pm - 4pm
TURKEY RIVER MALL
Closed Easter, Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Years Day
563-245-3995 ◆ 102 S. Main St., Elkader, IA
turkeyrivermallelkader.com
DRIFTLESS FUN FACT: The state bird of Iowa is the American Goldfinch and the state flower is the wild rose.
65
TURKEY RIVER
The Turkey River is a 153-mile-long tributary of the upper Mississippi River. Its main branch rises near Cresco, IA. Flowing from northwest to southeast, the Turkey Turkey River flowing by the Motor Mill and its tributaries cross ChickHistoric Site near Elkader, IA asaw, Winneshiek, Howard, (Brian Gibbs Photo) Fayette, Clayton, Delaware and Dubuque counties in Iowa. Tributaries include the Little Turkey River and Crane Creek. The Turkey enters the Mississippi south of Daily Food Specials Guttenberg and across from Cassville, WI. Hidden in the Turkey River valley, the Motor Mill Historic Site is an area that features a six-story limestone flouring grist mill and four related stone buildings dating to the late 1860s.
LIVE
MUSIC! Drink Specials
(563) 245-2541 | 203 Main St. SW, Elkader |
Remarkably
scenic!
WINGS • SALADS PASTAS • DESSERTS Gluten-free crust available
DINE -IN, CAR RY-O UT TAKE -N-B AKE
BEER ON TAP 127 N. Main, Elkader, IA 563-245-2800
Plan your camping escape this season in Elkader! Elkader Campground No reservations required. Call 563-245-2098 for more information!
visitelkader.com
66
decorahleader.com
MISSISSIPPI RIVER TRAIL
The Mississippi River Trail – abbreviated MRT – is a nationally-recognized network of shared roadways and bike paths following the Mississippi River from its headwaters at Lake Itasca in Minnesota to and area near the mouth of the river in Venice, Louisiana. Much of the trail’s 3,000 miles (4,800 km) follows roadways used by motor vehicles, although some of the route runs along multi-use trails. In Southeast Minnesota, the MRT passes through several smaller cities before reaching Lake Pepin. The route passes through Wabasha and Winona on its way to the Iowa state line, where it passes through New Albin and Lansing before passing through Harpers Ferry and heading south to Guttenberg.
LOCKS AND DAMS Lock and Dam No. 10 at Guttenberg
Barge traffic, as well as recreational boats, traversing the Mississippi River glide through locks and dams on the Mississippi River. The Structures offer an opportunity to introduce young people to the technology of river transportation. Observation decks allow visitors to view each craft, from canoe to mighty barge, as it maneuvers through the lock system. Lock and Dam No. 8 is located near Genoa, WI, along the Wisconsin Great River Road, Wisconsin’s only designated National Scenic Byway. Lock and Dam No. 9 is located in a bluff-lined valley on theUpper Mississippi River and spans the river from near Harpers Ferry, IA, to just south of Lynxville, WI. Lock and Dam No. 10 is a central facet of Guttenberg, IA. Visitors can watch from by the lock and dam’s observation deck or view the lock and dam from Guttenberg’s river walk.
FISHING HIKING BIKING
• Complimentary wine tastings Located right off the Great River Road with gorgeous views of Iowa countryside 39053 Great River Rd., Guttenberg, IA 563-252-2665 promiselandwinery.com
LODGING
• 6 boutiques for shopping & snacking • Beer & liquor also available
Live music every Sunday
Come spend the day with us!
Scenic Gutt enberg AN IOWA GREAT PLACE
DINING SHOPPING
• Homemade pizza & sandwich menu
Historic river town named one of
America’s Prettiest Towns
by Yahoo and Forbes
ART guttenburgiowa.net
DRIFTLESS FUN FACT: Effigy Mounds is the only national monument/park in Iowa.
67
GERMAN AMERICAN MUSEUM 212 East Main St., St. Lucas, IA
The German American Museum, Library and Family History Center provides a unique learning experience about the 165-year ethnic heritage of the area. The museum is located in the 114-year old St. Luke’s School Building in St. Lucas, IA. The architecturally and culturally unique building houses the museum, library and family history programs and is on the National Registry of Historic Places.
German American Museum
28TH ANNUAL NORTHEAST IOWA ARTISTS’
German American Museum, Library & Family History Center
th 49 Annual Fort Atkinson
RENDEZVOUS SEPTEMBER 27 & 28, 2025 Saturday 9:30AM to 4:30PM
UPCOMING EVENTS: Visit the restored museum building on the National Register of Historic Places. Explore exhibits on Native American presence, German immigrants, religious life, importance of education, agriculture practices, completive sports, family life and military service. St. Lucas Museum, Library and Family History Center
Scan the QR code to learn more or visit stlucasmuseum.org
212 East Main Street, St. Lucas, IA 52166
68
CAR CRUISE
Sunday, August 24 10AM-6PM
5K Walk /Ru at 8:00A n M Saturda y
Sunday 9:00AM to 3:30PM
NO Admission Charge
FREE PARKING Bring the Family!
For more information email: fortatkinsoniowarendezvous@gmail.com
Fort Atkinson Iowa Rendezvous
RENDEZVOUS Sponsored by Friends of Fort Atkinson and CHICKEN the Iowa DNR. Held with permission of the Iowa State Preserves Advisory Board. DINNER
Saturday,
September 27 4-7PM Listed on the National Register of Historic Places
decorahleader.com
Fayette County’s“Hidden Gem”
VOLGA RIVER STATE REC AREA
Opening May 15
Frog Hollow Lake (Abby Cahalan photo) 10255 Ivy Road Fayette, IA
IOWA WINES & CRAFT BEERS
Unique lodging
Roughly 5,700 acres of rolling woodlands and a 135 acre lake provide a variety of recreational opFUN GIFTS portunities including hiking, bicycling, horseback by local artists riding, camping, hunting, fishing and boating in EW! N the Volga River State Recreation Area. The rugged ART STUDIO northeast Iowa topography is often referred to “Lit- Creator Classes offered tle Switzerland.” Old steel bridges cross the Volga Thursdays & Sundays season-long in our new River striking rock formations and prairie areas grain bin art studio. and natural woodlands characterize the area. Seating for 50+. At Frog Hollow Lake, also known as Volga Lake, a floating fishing pier, shoreline sidewalk LIVE MUSIC and fishing jetties are all universally accessible and & FOOD Select Friday nights provide great fishing access.
stay updated!
www.kkgardens.com
Iowa's #1 Destination Garden Center 50 mins north of Waterloo 30 mins south of Decorah
Offering over 40,000 plants!
Decorah
K&K Gardens
Waterloo
108 E. Wilbur St, Hawkeye, Iowa • 563.427.5373 • Open daily May - September
DRIFTLESS FUN FACT: Fort Atkinson was completed in 1842 with a 11-foot, 9 inch stockade wall.
69
OUTDOOR MUSIC Caledonia
Summer Music in the Park, June 24, July 8 & 22 at Gazebo Park
Chatfield
Music & Market in the Park, Thursdays June-August at Chatfield City Park
Decorah
Lawn Chair Night, Thursday nights June-August www.visitdecorah.com
Elgin
Music in the Park, second Thursday July-August
Elkader
Rhythm on the River, May 15, June 6 & 27, July 11, Aug. 8 at Founders Park
Guttenberg
River of Music Events, Fridays June-August at city park
Harmony
Back Alley Jam Series, June 19, July 17, Aug. 21
Harpers Ferry
Music in the Park, Sundays June-September at Tillinghast Park
Houston
Southeast Minnesota Bluegrass Festival, May 16-18 & Aug. 14-17 at Cushon’s Peak Campground Lawn Chair Concert Series, Wednesdays in July-August at Trailhead Park
One Stage at a Time Variety Show in Lanesboro, MN (Craig Johnson photo)
Lansing
Spillville
Monona
Summer Concert Series, June 13, July 5, Sept. 14 on Ludwig Stage
Music in the Park, May 22, June 19, July 17 & Aug. 21 at Lansing City Park Music in the Park, Thursdays June-July at Winnequah Park
Oelwein
Party in the Park Summer Series, second Thursday June-September at Depot Park
Ossian
Music in the Pavilion, June 25, June 29, July 13, July 16, July 20, July 30, Aug. 3, Aug, 8, Aug. 17.
Peterson
Summer Music Series, May 31, July 13, 20 & 27 at the Historic Peterson Bandstand
Preston
Rhythm by the River, June 12, July 10 & Aug. 14 at Trailhead Park
Lanesboro
Rushford
Rhythms on the Root, July 12 at Gateway Park
Rushford Music Series, Thursdays in August
Bluff Country Gathering Music Festival, May 15-18
70
Roots and Rhythms Music and Art Series, Thursdays in June
The Inwood Sessions, Tuesdays in May at Inwood Ballroom
Turkey River Music Festival, Aug. 22-23 at Riverside Park
Spring Grove
Music & Market, Wednesdays May-August at Viking Park
Spring Valley
Music in the Park, Fridays June-July at Spring Creek Park Goodstock at Good Earth Village, June 21-22
Waterville
Country on the Creek, Aug. 16 at Waterville Community Center
West Union
Playin’ on the Plaza, Thursdays June-August at Civic Plaza
Whalan
Music in the Bluffs, May 31, June 28, July 26 & Aug. 16
decorahleader.com
SPILLVILLE, IOWA
Riverside Park + CAMPGROUND
Activities
Where time is best spent & expertly kept...
Historic, natural setting along the peaceful Turkey River
BILY CLOCKS MUSEUM & Antonin Dvorak Exhibit 323 S. Main St. Spillville, IA 563-562-3569
bilyclocks.org A family-friendly lodge located in Spillville, a unique Czechoslovakian town near Decorah. Built in 1900, the barn was part of a working farm before Spillville was incorporated.
HORSESHOES FRISBEE GOLF PLAYGROUND BASEBALL FIELD CANOE LANDING
Tent & RV camping
Central bathrooms, showers & dump station
Nearby
Power, trash cans, picnic tables & fire ring at each site Shelters
116 Bridge St., Spillville, IA • 563 380-0148 campground@spillville.org
Book your stay today at
www.spillville.org
Ludwig Memorial Stage and the Historic Inwood Ballroom are hosts to many summer events: • Spillville Summer Concert Series
• Spillville Fireworks, Saturday, July 5 • Turkey River Music Fest, August 22 & 23
The Barn House Lodge
HISTORIC SPILLVILLE, IOWA
www.bankingwithcsb.com
101 Church St., Spillville (563) 562-3674
3 BEDROOMS
PRIVATE BACKYARD
(563) 534-7211
109 N. Main St., Protivin (563) 569-8779
Your locally owned community bank since 1908
STOCKED KITCHEN PEACEFUL BACK DECK WITH A VIEW
104 4th St. NW, Ft. Atkinson
Scan to find us on AirBNB or VRBO
104 N. Main St., Spillville, IA • 563-379-3160 thebarnhouselodge@gmail.com
Citizens Savings Bank invites you to enjoy area attractions! Bily Clocks • Antonin Dvorak Inwood Ballroom & Parks Fort Atkinson Preserve & So Much More!
DRIFTLESS FUN FACT: Spillville’s Wenzil Taylor building has two underground tunnels which are said to have been utilized during prohibition. 71
HUNTING
Whitetail buck near Rushford, MN (Craig Johnson photo)
The Driftless Area is a certified paradise for any outdoor lover, but even more so for hunters. In fact, fall is so packed with opportunity that it can be a challenge to manage the boundless possibilities with limited free time. While there’s an abundance of game in the Driftless, here’s a look at the most popular species. Whitetail deer: Perhaps the most emblematic and certainly the region’s most popular game animal, Driftless whitetails are prized for their tasty venison and trophy antlers. Seasons are liberal and offer diverse opportunity; from the early-fall archery openers, to the popular firearms hunt, and ending with primitive weapons seasons that last until early winter. Wild turkey: When wild turkey flocks were reintroduced to Iowa and Minnesota decades ago, state game managers looked no further for an ideal place than the Driftless, 72
where hardwood forests mixed with rich farmland to create the perfect habitat. While the raucous gobbling of toms makes the spring hunt the most popular, fall seasons are offered in both states and are the perfect opportunity to bag a wild turkey for Thanksgiving. Waterfowl: The sprawling main channel and diverse backwaters of the Mississippi River create some of the best duck and goose hunting on the continent. Factor in the rivers, streams, ponds and agricultural fields - all found in abundance in the Driftless - and the region becomes a waterfowler’s paradise. Ringneck pheasant: 2023 pheasant numbers were the highest in Northeast Iowa since 1999 and 2024 numbers decreased by only four birds per 30-miles route - nearly identical to the Iowa DNR’s 2021 and 2022 counts. Pheasants can be found throughout the Driftless; whether on
the region’s abundant public lands, or on farms with suitable habitat. Seasons start in October and last through the New Year, creating ample opportunity to chase the gaudy, magnificent roosters. Small game: While the more glamorous species grab the attention of sportsmen, serious hunters recognize the hardwood forests and abundant farmland in the Driftless create ideal hunting for squirrels and rabbits. Even better, seasons start in early fall and last well into winter, offering excellent opportunities for young hunters eager to learn the sport. The takeaway: Perhaps the most amazing asset for a hunter in the Driftless Area is the abundance of public hunting opportunities. For a complete list of state, county and federal public lands open to hunting, as well as updated information on seasons and license requirements, visit iowadnr.gov or dnr.state.mn.us. decorahleader.com
SHED HUNTING Looking for an outdoor activity to occupy that netherworld between true winter and bonafide spring? Try hunting for shed antlers, one of nature’s most beautiful sculptures. Here are some tips • Most will be found near feeding or bedding areas. • Search south-facing slopes. They are preferred by deer Shed antlers dropped by deer (Craig Johnson photo) about to drop their antlers. • Walk slowly and look down. • “Grid-search” areas. • Wait for clouds. Bright sun can actually make antlers harder to spot. • Check the jumps: fence lines, creek crossings or trails across a steep ditch. • Get the green light: Always ask permission before entering any private property.
DRIFTLESS FUN FACT: Iowa has been the top corn producer in the United States for over 150 years.
73
NORMAN BORLAUG BOYHOOD HOME
A historic barn, located on the boyhood farm of Norman Borlaug, was build by Borlaug and his father. (Howard County Tourism photo)
19518 200th St., Cresco, IA For over a half century, the scientific and humanitarian achievements of Norman Borlaug, recipient of more than 50 honorary doctorate degrees, kept starvation at bay for millions of people in third world countries. Born on a small farm south of Cresco, IA, Borlaug is one of only seven people in the world to be awarded the Nobel Peace Prize, Congressional Gold Medal, and Presidential Medal of Freedom. Visitors to Dr. Borlaug’s boyhood home and farm can walk in the footsteps of a young boy learning lessons which would lead to the revolutionary changes he engineered around the world through his innovative approaches to agriculture. Experience the settings of Borlaug’s humble beginnings, including his bedroom from an era of time gone by. Learn his inspirational story through guided or self-guided tours of his former one-room schoolhouse, farm buildings and fields; and abut his scientific and humanitarian which saved billions of lives. 74
"I realize how fortunate I was to have been born, to have grown to manhood, and to have received my early education in rural Iowa. That heritage provided me with a set of values that has been an invaluable guide to me in my work around the world... These values ... have been of great strength in times of despair in my struggle to assist in improving the standards of living of rural people everywhere." -Norman Borlaug decorahleader.com
40+ years of award-winning meats and customer service
Everything you need to enjoy the outdoors – MORE! HOURS RI 9 - 5 TUE - F NOON SAT 8 -
220 North Elm St., Cresco, IA 563-547-5071
FIREARMS & TRANSFERS
EQUIPMENT, GEAR & ACCESSORIES HUNTING & FISHING LICENSES
CONCEALED CARRY TRAINING
KNIFE SHARPENING
WWW.OUTDOORSANDMORE.NET | HUNDREDS OF BRANDS AVAILABLE
Specialties
Meet me at the locker!
www.polashekslocker.com
DRIFTLESS FUN FACT: Protivin was established in 1877, and did not have a bank until 1910 when Bohemian Savings Bank was established.
75
DRIFTLESS AREA COUNTY FAIRS Winneshiek County Fair Decorah, IA, July 8-12 Howard County Fair Cresco, IA, June 25-29 Allamakee County Fair Waukon, IA, July 16-20 Clayton County Fair National, IA, July 30-Aug. 3 Fayette County Fair West Union, IA, July 22-26 Fillmore County Fair Preston, MN, July 21-26
Winneshiek County Fair rodeo grandstand event
Houston County Fair Caledonia, MN, Aug. 13-17
(Seth Boyes photo)
see your photos in the next Destination Driftless Exploration Guide!
DRIFTLESS
PHOTO GRAPHY
CASH PRIZES 1-YEAR SUBSCRIPTIONS PHOTO FEATURE
Contest
Held in July during the Winneshiek County Fair
Contest open to all
Amateurs + Professionals Driftless Region
Entrants must be 18+ or have written consent from parent/guardian
Photos must be original works taken by the entrant in the Driftless Region. Winners will be announced during the fair, published in the Decorah Leader and online.
Entries must be delivered to the Winneshiek County Fair Community Building on July 1, 2025. Entry forms available at www.winneshiekcountyfair.org or at the Decorah Leader office, 110 Washington St., Suite 4, Decorah. Call Ruth (563-419-2834) or Samantha (563-382-4221) with questions.
76
Categories
Entrant can submit up to 2 printed photographs
Driftless Wild
Nature, wildlife, animals, flowers
Portraits + People Destination Driftless
Landscapes, architecture, attractions, activities
SCAN CODE
for contest rules, guidelines and more information
decorahleader.com
Welcome to
Large selection of Craft Beers
Decorah!
Enjoy the many activities the area provides.
Stay for awhile... return for a lifetime!
ld Drinks! o C ! d o o F t a e r G f! Friendly Staf
Appetizers, Sandwiches, Broasted chicken, Great Pizza!
660 County Street Ridgeway, IA
563-737-2221 SERVING FOOD: Wed: 4PM-8PM Thu-Sat: 11AM-9PM Sun: 11AM-8PM
321 West Water Street, Decorah 1801 Old Stage Road, Decorah 563-387-0191 www.vikingstatebank.com
Dest ination Garden Center
TREES & SHRUBS • ANNUALS & PERENNIALS
GARDENS & PUMPKINS
WOOD CHIPS & MULCH • DECORATIVE ROCK TOOLS • LANDSCAPE DESIGN/INSTALLATION RETAIL & GIFTS • SEASONAL ITEMS
PUMPKIN PATCH & CORN MAZE
Charming
EVENT CENTER for your special day
563-382-0010 • 2475 State Hwy 9, Decorah • PintersGardensAndPumpkins.com DRIFTLESS FUN FACT: Ridgeway, Iowa’s Woodcarving Museum features over 6,000 woodcarvings from around the world. 77
Subscribe and
STAY IN THE KNOW!
Your source for breaking news, community news, sporting events & more!
SUBSCRIPTION OPTIONS DIGITAL ONLY
...............................................12 mo ............$47
PRINT ONLY Local (521) ..................12 mo ............$57
...............................................6 mo .............$35 Everywhere else ...12 mo ............$72
Everywhere else ...6 mo .............$44
PRINT + DIGITAL COMBO Add e-edition access to your print subscription!
Local ................................12 mo ............$89
PRINT & DIGITAL Send payment to:
Decorah Leader PO Box 350 Decorah, IA 52101
Stop by our office at 110 Washington St. Suite 4, Decorah, IA
Call 563-382-4221 to make a payment over the phone using a card.
...............................................6 mo .............$47
Everywhere else ...12 mo ............$96
Everywhere else ...6 mo .............$54
www.decorahleader.com 110 Washington St. Suite 4 Decorah, IA 563-382-4221
78
decorahleader.com
e r u t n e v Ad PLAN YOUR DRIFTLESS
DRIFTLESS MAP ON THE NEXT PAGE
Fall foliage near Decorah, IA (Roz Weis photo) WINNESHIEK COUNTY, IA 1. Bear Creek Cabins
FOOD + DRINK
ATTRACTIONS
2. Decorah Bicycles
SERVICES + SHOPPING
LODGING
3497 Highlandville Rd., Highlandville, IA ... see page 41 101 College Dr., Decorah, IA ................ see page 3
3. Decorah Parks & Rec
400 Claiborne Dr., Decorah, IA ........... see page 28
4. Dragonfly Books
112 W. Water St., Decorah, IA ............. see page 25
5. DuTrac Community Credit Union
915 Short St., Ste 105, Decorah, IA..... see page 17
6. Fairfield Inn & Suites
2041 IA-9, Decorah, IA ........................ see page 31
7. Fisk Farm & Home
915 Short St., Decorah, IA ..................... see page 7
8. Hotel Winneshiek
104 E. Water St., Decorah, IA .............. see page 27
9. Jubliee
218 W. Water St., Decorah, IA ............. see page 19
10. Kelly Real Estate
1870 IA-9, Decorah, IA ........................ see page 13
11. Kwik Star Across the Driftless and at
WINNESHIEK COUNTY, IA continued 12. Luther College
700 College Dr., Decorah, IA .............. see page 35
13. Magpie Cafe & Coffeehouse
202 W. Water St., Decorah, IA ............. see page 21
14. Nordic Fest
Decorah, IA.......................................... see page 23
15. Oneota Film Festival
Decorah, IA.......................................... see page 16
16. Pinter’s Gardens & Pumpkins
2475 State Hwy. 9, Decorah, IA ........... see page 77
17. Rubaiyat Restaurant & Wine Shop
117 W. Water St., Decorah, IA ............. see page 82
18. Sabin Family Table
817 Mechanic St., Decorah, IA .............. see page 3
19. Seed Savers Exchange
3074 N. Winn Rd., Decorah, IA ........... see page 37
905 Short St., Decorah, IA .................. see page 73
DRIFTLESS FUN FACT: The famous Czech composer Antonin Dvorak spent the summer of 1893 in Spillville, IA.
79
Southeast Minnesota wildlife (Craig Johnson photo) WINNESHIEK COUNTY, IA continued 20. Sunflower Child Development & Discovery Center
902 Commerce Dr., Decorah, IA ......... see page 33
21. The Depot Outlet
510 Montgomery St., Decorah, IA ........ see page 9
ALLAMAKEE COUNTY, IA continued 33. Lid’s Bar & Grill
1350 9th St. SW, Waukon, IA............... see page 59
34. Our Postville Community Heart & Soul
Postville, IA .......................................... see page 63
22. The Landing Market
211 College Dr., Decorah, IA .............. see page 19
23. The Perfect Edge
107 W. Water St., Decorah, IA ............. see page 21
24. Toppling Goliath Brewing Co.
1600 Prosperity Rd., Decorah, IA ........ see page 81
25. Vesterheim Museum
520 W. Water St., Decorah, IA ............. see page 17
26. Winneshiek Wildberry Winery
1966 337th St., Decorah, IA ................ see page 37
FILLMORE COUNTY, MN 35. Amish Valley Cabin
38109 134th St., Canton, MN ............. see page 38
36. Chatfield Center for the Arts
405 Main St., Chatfield, MN .................. see page 2
37. Discover Harmony
Harmony, MN ...................................... see page 43
38. Hesper-Mabel Steam Engine Days
Mabel, MN .......................................... see page 41
CLAYTON COUNTY, IA 27. Turkey River Mall
39. Visit the Rushford Peterson Valley
FAYETTE COUNTY, IA 28. K&K Gardens
HOUSTON COUNTY, MN 40. Outback Ranch
Rushford, MN ...................................... see page 48
102 S. Main St., Elkader, IA ................. see page 65
108 E. Wilbur St., Hawkeye, IA ............ see page 69
HOWARD COUNTY, IA 29. Cresco Theatre & Opera House
115 2nd Ave. W., Cresco, IA.................. see page 2
30. Howard County Business & Tourism
Cresco, IA ............................................ see page 75
7750 Tt Rd., Houston, MN .................. see page 50
41. Saxon Hall
702 Main St., Brownsville, MN ............ see page 53
42. Spring Grove Chamber of Commerce
Spring Grove, MN ............................... see page 51
ALLAMAKEE COUNTY, IA 31. Allamakee County Economic Development & Tourism
LA CROSSE COUNTY, WI 43. Courtyard Marriott La Crosse
32. Empty Nest Winery
44. Taqueria Pato Azul
Waukon, IA .......................................... see page 57 1235 Apple Rd., Waukon, IA ............... see page 59 80
500 Front St. S., La Crosse, WI ............ see page 53 127 4th St. S., La Crosse, WI ............... see page 52
decorahleader.com
36
PLAN YOUR DRIFTLESS
e r u t n e Adv
40 41
37
35
26
30 29 16
LODGING 3
Co
lle
Dr
Claiborne Drive
iv
e
2
9 13 4 8
25 Water Street
18 21 12 24 116751020
32 3331
34
State Street
ge
1
19
ATTRACTIONS
22
42
38
FOOD + DRINK
SERVICES + SHOPPING
44 43
39
Downtown Decorah State Street
River Street
Mechanic Street
17 23 14 15
28 27
A
ROOT RIVER TRAIL Location: Fountain/Houston, MN Length: 42 Miles Difficulty: Varies
The paved Root River State Trail meanders 42 miles alongside the Root River from Fountain to Houston. Constructed on an abandoned railroad, the trail is generally level and wheelchair accessible except for a steep half-mile segment between Vinegar Ridge and Houston which may be challenging for some visitors.
The Root River Trail passes through Peterson, MN. (Craig Johnson photo)
rk
Fo South
R
r
ive
R oot
HARMONY-PRESTON VALLEY TRAIL Location: Preston/Harmony, MN Length: 18 Miles Difficulty: Varies
The paved Harmony-Preston Valley State Trail is a beautiful 18-mile long multiple-use trail which connects the communities of Harmony and Preston with the existing Root River State Trail. Main summer uses are hiking, biking and in-line skating. The trail is groomed for cross country skiing in the winter. The northern two-thirds of the trail follow or cross Watson Creek, the South Branch of the Root River, and Camp Creek, passing through a variety of
B
wooded areas and farmland on an abandoned railroad grade. This section is wheelchair accessible. Three fishing platforms provide access to trout fishing in Camp Creek just outside of Preston. Unlike the northern segment of this trail, the southern segment was not constructed upon an abandoned railroad grade. The southern segment of the trail between County Road 16 and Harmony climbs out of the river valley and angles cross-country into Harmony. The trail rises up and falls over a number of little hills and is punctuated with a rather strenuous incline that may not be suitable for all users.
The Harmony Trail Head Park includes a bike tune-up station, splash pad, playground; outdoor musical instruments (pictured here), a disc golf course, plenty of room and facilities for picnics, all near the Harmony visitors center, dining and shopping. (Samantha Ludeking photo)
fall
parking
parking
fishing
fishing
Walk.Walk. Jog. Jog. Bike. Bike. Skate. CrossCross country ski. ski. Skate. country
11 MILES YEAR-ROUND
TROUTTROUT RUN RUN PARK PARK / / WMA WMA
cream
parking
air
air
parking
parking
dog park
1 ge
d Ol
Sta
6
Rd ld
O
PP
parking
art
3
6
fishing
fishing
fishing
water water
art
parking
art
PP
parking
5
fall
7
55
TRAILHEAD TRAILHEAD
fishing
5
water
7
Rd
TipTip 5: 5:
FREEPORT FREEPORT FREEPORT FREEPORT PARK PARK
IOWA TRAILTRAILIOWA unincorporated unincorporated HEADHEAD
ge
Sta
Rd
(WALMART LOT) LOT) (WALMART
9
9
TipTip 6: 6:
6 6
1
Want to addtoa add few extra Want a fewmiles extra to miles to your loop? the on Freeport your Hop loop?onHop the Freeport Trail! Take breaka at Freeport Park Park Trail!aTake break at Freeport with itswith fixit its station, restroom, and and fixit station, restroom, picnic picnic shelter.shelter. The Freeport Trail Trail The Freeport also passes right byright the by dogthepark also passes dog park maintained by Decorah Parks and maintained by Decorah Parks and Recreation, a great place to let your Recreation, a great place to let your pooch pooch run off-leash (but keep run off-leash (butthem keep them on leash all on trails)! on on leash all trails)!
6
TipTip 4: 4:
un
tR
u Tro
Rd
The aptly-named Trout Run Trail crosses trout streams five times on its 11-mile loop. The route, which ranges from easy to challenging crosses incredible landscape and mounts steep switchbacks for breathtaking views. In the heart of it all lies picturesque Decorah, Iowa, a town packed with fun and adventure!
5 5 6
un
tR
u Tro
The Decorah Fish Hatchery is a is a The Decorah Fish Hatchery great place starttoyour great to place startloop your–loop – there’s there’s the famous eagle’s nest the famous eagle’s nest just across the road, just across the Siewer’s road, Siewer’s Spring,Spring, and, ofand, course, lots lots of course, of fish of at fish the hatchery (you (you at the hatchery can feed justfor 25just 25 canthem feedfor them cents)!cents)! Plus parking, Plus parking, picnic picnic areas, areas, & & restrooms. restrooms.
EasyEasy Terrain = Easy Terrain = Easy = Challenging = Challenging Challenging Terrain Challenging Terrain = Half-mile = Half-mile
JustJust follow thesethese signs!signs! follow Design by Design by
iloveinspired.com iloveinspired.com
visitdecorah.com visitdecorah.com 1-563-382-3990 1-563-382-3990
drink
4
On-Street BikeBike Route On-Street Route MainMain Roads into into Decorah Roads Decorah Walking PathPath Walking
drink
4
fall water
r Rd
Trout Run Rd Trou t Run
Siewers Spring Rd
Siewers Spring Rd
8
As youAscome switchbacks you down come the down the switchbacks at “theatcut” head “thenear cut”mile near10, mile 10,right head right to continue the loop scenic scenic to continue thealong loop along Dug Road downtown or turnor turn Dug toward Road toward downtown left to find spur left tothefind thetrail spurthrough trail through Pulpit Pulpit Rock Campground. You can Rock Campground. You can also continue past the campground also continue past the campground on the on road to Twin Springs Park the road to Twin Springs&Park & its lovely hiking hiking and mountain its lovely and mountain biking biking trails (for skilled riders).riders). trails (for skilled
Middle Calma
r Rd
4 Tip 4 4:
Rd
2
MILE MILE MARKERS MARKERS
parking
3
fishing
9
parking
parking
TRAILTRAIL P P HEADHEAD
500’ 0’ 1000’ 500’ 1000’ 2000’ 2000’
TroutTrout Run Run TrailTrail Freeport TrailTrail Freeport
ice cream
drink ice
eat
eat drink
shops
shops
M
t
CARLSON PARK
P P
dog park
eat
DIvision St
parking
11 11 MILES. MILES. YEARYEARROUND. ROUND.
C
8
52
TROUT TROUT TROUT RUN RUN RUN TRAIL TRAIL TRAIL
2
9
Middle Calma
52
PP parking
We’re working on another trail! The We’re working on another trail! The 9 box9culvert under under Highway 52 is the box culvert Highway 52 start is the start of a future trail that will create a network of of a future trail that will create a network of over 40 miles paved trails! trails! The future over 40 of miles of paved The Dry future Dry Run Trail connect the Trout the to the9 Runwill Trail will connect theRun TroutTrail RuntoTrail PrairiePrairie FarmerFarmer Recreational Trail, near Recreational Trail,Calmar. near Calmar. When When completed, the Drythe Run completed, DryTrail Runitself Trailwill itself will provideprovide the opportunity to explore a scenic the opportunity to explore a scenic valley,valley, prairies, oak savannas, and and prairies, oak savannas, picturesque countryside. picturesque countryside.
parking
parking
parking
e
ery
Mo
ntg
om
Washington St
Mill St
IOWA IOWA
POP.POP. 81098109
DIvision St
TipTip 3: 3: 3 3
TRAILHEAD TRAILHEAD
2
DECORAH DECORAH
9
3 3
2.752.75 MILES, MILES, YEAR-ROUND. YEAR-ROUND.
0’
TipTip 1: 1:
rt S
o Sh
2.75
FREEPORT TRAIL LEGEND LEGEND 2.75 MILES YEAR-ROUND
Decorah’s downtown Decorah’s downtown districtdistrict is charming & is charming & fun, filled fun,with filledbikewith bikefriendlyfriendly businesses to businesses to visit. The Chamber & visit. The Chamber & Visitor’sVisitor’s Center Center on the on the west end of Water west end of Water Street is a great Street is aplace great place to get more to get info! more info!
art
St
2.75
S
1 1
2
fishing
ort
Sh
Washington St
St ice cream
ice eat cream
shops
shops
52
eat
52
Mill St
PHELPS PHELPS 10 PARK 10 PARK
Mechanic St
Mechanic St
art
art
camp
camp fishing
4
S
E
PP
water
iver
P P
Broadway St Broadway St
iver
TRAILHEAD
om
parking
parking
Main StMain St
0 TRAILHEAD
eat
0
PALISADES PALISADES PARK PARK water wa R
WOLDWOLD PARK PARK
ontg
fall water
eat
air
1
Water StWater St
wa R
parking
parking
parking
1
VISITORS CENTERVISITORS CENTER
E
DOWNTOWN DECORAH DOWNTOWN DECORAH
DecorahDecorah Ave Ave South Ave South Ave
er Io
parking
P
er Io
4 TWIN TWIN SPRINGS SPRINGS PARK PARK fishing
P
P
Upp
water
1
Goose Island Dr Island Dr Goose
COMMUNITY COMMUNITY PRAIRIE PRAIRIE
PULPIT ROCK PULPIT ROCK CAMPGROUND CAMPGROUND
P
Upp
WILL WILL BAKERBAKER PARK PARK
water
WAYSIDE WAYSIDE PARK PARK
PP
Rd ave e Rd Ice C Ice Cav
1
2
WhereWhere Fifth Ave meets Fifth Ave meets CollegeCollege Dr, youDr,can right yougocan goW right W for Downtown, or left to for Downtown, or left to check check out “west side” out “west side” businesses, Luther Luther College, businesses, College, or Ice Cave where or IceRoad Cave –Road – where you’ll find Dunning’s Spring,Spring, you’ll find Dunning’s scenic scenic parks, parks, & great&hiking great hiking trails! And, you’re up for up an for an trails!ifAnd, if you’re adventure, awesome adventure, awesome mountain biking trails too! mountain biking trails too!
DUNNING’S DUNNING’S ICE CAVE ICE CAVE SPRING SPRING PARK PARK PARK PARK
air
r ge D Colle drink drink
Fifth AveFifth Ave
PP
2
2 2
Locust
Locust
water r ge D Colle drink
eat
drink
River
River
Iowa
Iowa
r Uppe
r Uppe
LUTHERLUTHER COLLEGE COLLEGE
N N
TipTip 2: 2:
VAN PEENEN VAN PEENEN PARK PARK
Rd
Rd
52
t ry S
52
Emergency Signage Along thethe Trails Emergency Signage Along Trails
Signage along the trails provides trail users with location information they they Signage along the trails provides trail users with location information can relay to emergency responders in case of anofaccident or emergency can relay to emergency responders in case an accident or emergency The white GPS coordinates that help personnel to situation. situation. The and whiteblue andsigns blue display signs display GPS coordinates thatemergency help emergency personnel to
quicklyquickly find someone who has accident on theon trail. on a national standardized GPS grid find someone whohad hasanhad an accident theBased trail. Based on a national standardized GPS grid system, the signs criticalcritical and consitent information to emergency personnel. system, the provide signs provide and consitent information to emergency personnel. A sample emergency sign issign pictured below.below. A sample emergency is pictured If youIfhave an emergency on trail, thesethese simple steps:steps: you have an emergency on follow trail, follow simple 1. Dial1.911 Dial 911 2. Read the six large numbers (Fig. 1) to dispatcher. 2. Read the six large numbers (Fig. the 1) to the dispatcher. figure fi2gure 2 3. If requested, also read small numbers and letters at the at topthe of top sign(Fig. 2) 2) 3. If requested, alsothe read the small numbers and letters of sign(Fig. figure fi1gure 1
Be patient, it mayittake time for emergency personnel to reach you. you. Be patient, maysome take some time for emergency personnel to reach Remember, sometimes they will travel the same trails you to did get to to get to Remember, sometimes theyhave will to have to travel the same trailsdid you your location. Funding for thefor signs in partinfrom Decorah RotaryRotary Club Club your location. Funding the comes signs comes partthe from the Decorah and the Winneshiek CountyCounty E 9-1-1 Board.Board. and the Winneshiek E 9-1-1
This nifty of Winneshiek County map was possible by these fine groups: This Trails nifty Trails of Winneshiek County mapmade was made possible by these fine groups:
LEFT- The Decorah Dog Park is located off of Old Stage Road and accessible by Trout Run Trail. The 2-acre off-leash dog park features two fenced-in grassy areas; one for large dogs and a smaller area for dogs 25 pounds and under. (Samantha Ludeking photo)
PRAIRIE FARMER RECREATIONAL TRAIL
Prairie Farmer Recreational Trail
Location: Cresco/Calmar, IA Length: 20 Miles Difficulty: Easy
Prairie Springs Recreational Trail k
m do
c Ro
k
O
SC
e
e Fr
e Fr
C
sh
ar
n
di
ar
C
M al
PRAIRIE SPRINGS RECREATIONAL TRAIL
Location: Cresco Length: 3.5 Miles Difficulty: Moderate
TRAIL HIGHLIGHTS
The Prairie Springs Recreational Trail is 3.5 miles of paved access from downtown Cresco at Balk Park to Vernon Springs along the Prairie’s Edge Nature Center next to the Turkey River Campground. Prairie grass, flowers, rolling farmland and shaded woods will be found along the trail, as well as benches and picnic tables to stop and enjoy the outdoors.
Prairie Farmer Recreational Trail
D
Based on original map by Inspire(d) Media
Trail Etiquette
BICYCLISTS • Always wear a helmet. • Yield to pedestrians and skaters. • Give audible warning when passing other trail users. A friendly greeting like, “Passing on your left,” or ringing a bell is considerate. • Ride at a safe speed. Slow down and form a single file in congested areas, reduced visibility or other hazardous conditions. • Be mindful of all other trail users and young children on the trail as their actions could be unpredictable.
Prairie Springs Recreational Trail
The Prairie Farmer Recreational Trail is great for birding, road biking and running. It is generally described as easy, with an elevation gain of only 629 ft. The trail primarily follows the abandoned Milwaukee Railroad line which dates as far back as 1866. A restored Milwaukee Railroad diesel engine can be viewed at Beadle Park, just over a half-mile from the northern trailhead in Cresco. At the southern trailhead in Calmar, an interpretive loop explores signage from the Milwaukee Railroad era and a historical rail depot. In Calmar, the trail passes through a small park which is home to the Winneshiek County Freedom Rock. The park also features parking, a gazebo and benches. The trail briefly switches to street routes while passing through Ridgeway, where travelers can visit the town’s Veterans Memorial.
c Ro
e
RE
Prairie’s Edge Nature Center Vernon Springs Park
m do
Prairie’s Edge Nature Center, Cresco, IA (Samantha Ludeking photo) Freedom Rock, Cresco, IA (Abby Cahalan photo)
FREEDOM ROCKS Ray ‘Bubba’ Sorensen has traveled the state of Iowa to put a Freedom Rock in each county, honoring veterans and first responders. There is now a Freedom Rock in every one of Iowa’s 99 counties, including two Freedom Rocks on the Prairie Farmer Recreational Trail. In Calmar, the trail passes within feet of Winneshiek County’s Freedom Rock. While not directly on the trail, Howard County’s Freedom Rock is just one city block off of it.
PRAIRIE’S EDGE NATURE CENTER
The Prairie’s Edge Nature Center, located alongside Prairie Springs Recreational Trail in Cresco, offers visitors the opportunity to learn about natural resources and the environment as well as species of plants and animals. Many displays are featured at the center; the most popular being live animal displays. At the center, woodland, prairie and wetland displays highlight habitats found within the county. Additionally, visitors can find a 180-gallon tank of native fish, a live honeybee display and tiger salamanders. The center also boasts a library as well as touch-andfeel section featuring animal pelts, turtle shells and snake skins.
PEDESTRIANS AND SKATERS • Use the right side of the trail, except when otherwise designated. • Watch out for other trail users. • Listen for audible signals and allow faster trail users to pass safely. ALL TRAIL USERS • Show courtesy to others. • Use the right side of the trail, except when otherwise designated. • Always pass on the left. • Respect the rights of property owners. • Keep pets on a leash and remove pet feces from trail. • Travel with a buddy in case of an emergency. • Obey and respect all trail rules, hours, and traffic signs. • Move out of other users' way while taking a break or looking at a scenic view. • Keep children close by and teach them to be courteous to trail users. • Be considerate with your smartphone.
Toppling Goliath Taproom decorah, IowA
APPETIZERS & Entreés 20+ beers on tap cocktails patio & yard games brewery tours
tgbrews.com
Featuring a seasonal American menu using the highest quality products in season & locally grown when available
restaurant & wine shop 117 West Water St., Decorah, IA | www.rubaiyatrestaurant.com Reservations recommended and greatly appreciated | 563-382-WINE (9463) CALL FOR CURRENT HOURS