Visit Bluff Country

A guide to Historic Bluff Country

Visit Bluff Country

First Kayak winner of the Summer 2024

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On May 31, 2024, Visit Bluff Country Magazine conducted the first prize giveaway drawing of the summer, which was a brand new kayak. As the magazine celebrates 39 years as the premier tourism publication of Historic Bluff Country (a.k.a. The Driftless Area), they will be conducting prize giveaways each month from May through September.  Prizes include kayaks, a Grizzly cooler, and a Green Mountain Grill.

The next drawing for a brand new kayak will be June 30, 2024. Please go to www.visitbluffcountry.com/thebest to enter for a chance to win.

The Visit Bluff Country Magazine is delivered to more than 1,000 locations in 35 counties in Iowa, Illinois, Minnesota, and Wisconsin.  This magazine has a mission of promoting tourism in the Historic Bluff Country (Driftless) region.

For information on upcoming town festival and events in Historic Bluff Country, vacation ideas for lodging, recreation, dining and shopping, check out the magazine in print or online at www.visitbluffcountry.com.

Over the summer months, Visit Bluff Country Magazine will giveaway over $4,000 in gift cards and prizes with four different contests.

The Visit Bluff Country Magazine Golf Tour kicks off this next week, and $25 gift cards will be given away with a contest on the Visit Bluff Country Facebook Page.

The Brewery, Distillery & Winery Contest runs on the Visit Bluff Country Magazine Facebook page.  This contest will include a weekly $25 gift card giveaway for 17 consecutive weeks.

Visit Bluff Country Magazine will also giveaway $100 in gift cards with the Choose Your Adventure Contest, accessible at www.visitbluffcountry.com/adventure.

PHOTO:
Katie Semling, of Fountain City, Wis., alongside her son Barett, stood next to their brand new kayak that Katie won in a recent contest.
Photo by Jason Sethre

Indulge Your Senses This Summer

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By Charlene Corson Selbee

Live music in Bluff Country
Bring your friends and family and enjoy live music in picturesque Historic Bluff Country city parks.
Photo submitted

Picture a tranquil Midwest summer evening lounging in a lawn chair or relaxing on a blanket. As local bands blast out familiar tunes, you will find yourself swaying or dancing to their melodies. Indulge in the savory taste of a grilled bratwurst topped with mustard and sauerkraut or enjoy the crunch of fresh popped popcorn, all while sipping a refreshing cold beverage.

Eight communities in historic Bluff Country host free musical events during the summer.

Every community boasts its own distinctive title for their outdoor music concerts. From Decorah’s inviting Lawn Chair Nights to Whalan’s scenic Music in the Bluffs, and from Spring Grove’s vibrant Music and Market to Chatfield’s lively Music in the Park, each event promises its own unique charm. Join in the rhythm at Preston’s Rhythm by the River, immerse yourself in Spring Valley’s Music in the Park, or groove along at Caledonia’s Music in the Park. Don’t miss out on Peterson’s Summer Music Series! Names like these are guaranteed to entice participation.

Summer attendees can anticipate a lineup of beloved local bands gracing the stages this summer throughout Bluff Country. Enjoy the sounds of Mollie B, Lost Faculties, Rutabaga Brothers & Sister Mariah, Almost Amish, River Crossing, The Lonely Knees, LP and the 45s, Gopher Tones, The Chubs, Pete’s Pool Hall, Buck Hollow Band, The Riff Rangers, Trouble Shooter, Chatfield Brass Band, The Notochords Big Band, Kevin Ryan, Frank Moore, Prairie Smoke, Main Street Harmony, Tom Conrad, or Joe & Jackie Cody.

Each event showcases local bands and provides concessions for attendees. Guests are encouraged to bring their own lawn chairs or blankets and are welcome to bring along a picnic basket if desired.

Music Schedule

• Music in the Park, Caledonia – Tuesday, June 25, July 9, 16, 23, 30. Picnic in the Park at 5:30 followed by music from 6-7:30 p.m. at the Gazebo Park in downtown Caledonia.

• Music in the Park, Chatfield – Thursday, June 6, 13, and 20 from 7-8 p.m. Sunday, June 30 from 7-8 p.m. at Chatfield City Park.

• Lawn Chair Night, Decorah – Thursday evenings on the courthouse lawn or Washington Street outside Impact Coffee in downtown Decorah.

• Summer Music Series, Peterson – Sunday, July 7, 14, 21, and 28 from 5-7 p.m. at the historic bandstand.

• Rhythm by the River, Preston – Thursday, June 13, July 11, and August 8 from 6-8 p.m. at Trailhead Park.

• Music and Market, Spring Grove – Every Wednesday from 4-7 p.m. at Viking Memorial Park.

• Music in the Park, Spring Valley – Friday, June 7, 14, 21, 28, and July 5, 12, and 19 from 6:30-8:30 at Spring Creek Park.

• Music in the Bluffs, Whalan – Fri., May 31 from 6-7:30 p.m., Sat. July 20 from 4-7 p.m., and Sat. August 17 from 4-7 p.m. at the gazebo in the Park.

The Visit Bluff Country Magazine is delivered to more than 1,000 locations in 35 counties in Iowa, Illinois, Minnesota, and Wisconsin. This magazine has a mission of promoting tourism in the Historic Bluff Country (Driftless) region.

Join the Disc Golf Craze

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By Charlene Corson Selbee

Bluff Country stands out as an ideal destination for disc golf enthusiasts, boasting unparalleled scenery and diverse terrain unique to the region. From rolling fields, and sweeping rivers to towering limestone bluffs, the region offers a picturesque backdrop for a memorable disc golf journey from course to course. The sight of eagles soaring overhead, and the flowing Mississippi River adds to the unique charm of this destination.

Novice and seasoned golfers alike can test their skills on a varied terrain that includes natural and man-made obstacles, such as water hazards, stately pines, rocks and boulders, changes in elevation, playgrounds, an icehouse, a log cabin, picnic shelters, playgrounds, and even a vegetable garden, adds an extra layer of excitement to the game.

Disc golf is a year-round sport in the upper Midwest, with many courses remaining open even in the winter. Playing in the snow is for those that want to enjoy the game and not set records.
The sport is promoted as one of the best lifetime fitness activities suitable for all ages and skill levels.

One of the benefits of disc golf is its cost-free nature, as many courses are in public parks with no fees. At minimum players only need one disc to play, though experts recommend beginners start with three, a putter, midrange and driver for a more rounded experience. Due to all the walking, wear comfortable athletic shoes and wear a bucket hat to shield oneself from the sun. Tip: Bring along a portable radio and speaker to listen to while playing.

Preston, Minnesota’s newest course adds a unique twist, allowing players to engage in various sports on the same course. A basket built into the ground at the bottom of the disc basket opens up possibilities like playing soccer. If you do not have a disc, stop by the Preston Library and check one out. In other towns, stop at their library to see if they have discs to check out.

For more detailed information on each course, visit the Professional Disc Golf Association website at www.pdga.com or download the UDisc Disc Golf app on your cell phone. The app is free.

As you embark on your disc golf journey in Bluff Country, be prepared for an adventure filled with diverse landscapes, challenging courses, and welcoming communities, leaving you with cherished memories and a deepened love for the sport.

Photos by Charlene Corson Selbee

Cycling Adventures Await on the Bike Trail

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By Charlene Corson Selbee

Discover more than 170 miles of all-weather bike trails weaving through Bluff Country. Whether you’re a first-time rider or a seasoned trail enthusiast, the experience promises excitement and novelty with every journey. Riders of any age or proficiency level are ensured an unforgettable adventure along the scenic bike trails of Bluff Country, beckoning them to return for more.

In the stunning Bluff Country, every trail offers a breathtaking collage of picturesque vistas. Cyclists can enjoy multi-use trails throughout the year, surrounded by miles of scenic landscapes, including the mighty Mississippi River, sprawling fields, as well as green pastures, calming ponds, meandering streams, and ancient forests. The warmth of hospitality in Bluff County ensures encounters with friendly locals and visitors alike as visitors explore the countryside.

The Harmony-Preston Valley State Trail is a photogenic 18-mile multi-use trail that connects the communities of Harmony and Preston, MN with the Root River State Trail. In addition to biking, visitors enjoy hiking and in-line skating during the summer and cross-country skiing in the winter.

The Root River State Trail is a forty-two-mile trail that runs from Fountain, Minn., to Houston, Minn., along the lazy Root River. It is rated one of the top 10 trails in Minnesota. The trail constructed on an abandoned railroad bed is level making it wheelchair accessible except for a steep half-mile segment making it a challenge for some users. Visitors enjoy biking, jogging, walking, in-line skating, and cross-country skiing on the trail.

The Shooting Star Bike Trail, a 28.75-mile paved trail between LeRoy and Austin, MN passes through Lake Lousie State Park and the Minnesota farming communities of Rose Creek, Adams, and Taopi.

Trout Run Trail is a 12-mile asphalt surface that circles Decorah along the Upper Iowa River and through stunning Iowa farm fields and the Decorah Trout Hatchery, home to the famous Decorah eagles. Bikers, hikers, Cross-Country Skiers, and Nature watchers use the trail.

Prairie Farmer Recreational Trail, a 20-mile trail built on an abandoned railroad bed is open year round and connects Calmar, Ridgeway, and Cresco, IA. Users will enjoy biking, hiking, jogging, nature viewing, and cross-country skiing on the trail as they enjoy the views. There are five access points with parking along the trail.

The Wagon Wheel Trail, a 1.6-mile trail takes visitors through the backwaters of the Mississippi River near La Crescent, MN creating a one-of-a-kind opportunity to view wildlife and wildflowers. Hikers and bikers will enjoy this trail as they will not run into others exploring the wetlands. The trail is open year-round and is an easy route, taking less than 30 minutes to complete. This trail provides access to the new pedestrian bridge that connects the trail to downtown La Crescent and passes through the Upper Mississippi National Wildlife and Fish Refuge.

La Crosse River State Trail is a 22-mile trail between La Crosse and Sparta. The trail is rated as easy and goes through parks and forests and is open to walkers and bicyclists from spring through fall and snowmobiles in the winter. A state trail pass is required for all people aged 16 or older biking, cross-country skiing, horseback riding or in-line skating.

Pedal the Great River State Trail, stretching 24.5 miles from its starting point in Onalaska to the charming town of Trempeleau, WI. Immerse yourself in the breathtaking scenery that unfolds before you as you travel along this picturesque route. The trail travels along eighteen enchanting waterways, crosses the Black River on a 287-foot historic farmer railroad trestle and along Lake Onalaska and the BNSF railroad. Cyclists can stop and visit the Nicholls Hopewell Mound, and the Upper Mississippi and Trempealeau National Wildlife Refuges.

Enjoy biking Bluff Country!

Photos by Charlene Corson Selbee

Scanlan takes home grand prize of Green Mountain Grill

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Congratulations to Meggan Scanlan of Caledonia, Minn., who won a brand new Green Mountain Grill ($999 value) from a drawing conducted on September 30, 2023.

Photo by Jason Sethre
  • Brook Nagel, of Harmony, Minn.,
    won a brand new Blackstone 4-burner Griddle from a drawing conducted on August 31, 2023.
  • Ariana Cervantes, of Decorah, Iowa,
    won a brand new kayak from a drawing conducted on July 31, 2023.
  • Jill Heiderscheit, of New Albin, Iowa,
    won a brand new kayak from a drawing conducted on June 30, 2023.
  • Pamela Eddy, of La Crosse, Wis.,
    won a brand new kayak from a drawing conducted on June 2, 2023.

As the magazine celebrates 38 years as the premier tourism publication of Historic Bluff Country (a.k.a. The Driftless Area), they have conducted prize giveaways each month from May through September. Prizes include kayaks, a Blackstone griddle, and a Green Mountain Grill.

The Visit Bluff Country Magazine is delivered to more than 1,000 locations in 35 counties in Iowa, Illinois, Minnesota, and Wisconsin.

For information on upcoming town festival and events in Historic Bluff Country, vacation ideas for lodging, recreation, dining and shopping, check out the magazine in print or online at www.visitbluffcountry.com.

Over the summer months, Visit Bluff Country Magazine gave away more than $4,000 in gift cards and prizes with four different contests.

The Visit Bluff Country Magazine Golf Tour offered $25 gift cards given away with a contest on the Visit Bluff Country Facebook Page.

The Brewery, Distillery & Winery Contest ran on the Visit Bluff Country Magazine Facebook page.  This contest included a weekly $25 gift card giveaway for 15 consecutive weeks.

Visit Bluff Country Magazine also gave away $100 in gift cards with the Choose Your Adventure Contest, accessible at www.visitbluffcountry.com/adventure.

10 Hot Air Balloons Will Take to the Sky Over Caledonia

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By Charlene Corson Selbee

The Caledonia Balloon Rally was started in 1990 and is the only balloon rally south of Rochester, Minn., and has become an annual event. This year, the rally is scheduled for October 20-22.

The 10 hot air balloons are coming from Minnesota, the surrounding states of Wisconsin and Iowa, and one is coming from South Dakota. They will lift off from the field behind the Caledonia High School at 4:30 p.m. on Friday and Saturday evening and on Saturday and Sunday morning at 7:30 a.m.

Rally organizer Marian Gavin reminds attendees, “Balloon flights are weather dependent, and safety always comes first.” Remember that whether balloons fly or not is at the pilot’s discretion. Keep a watchful eye on the Caledonia Balloon Rally Facebook page for updates on the balloon rally: www.facebook.com/caledoniaballoonrally.

Participating pilots are Russ Lucas, Dodge Center, Minn.; Lynn Huppert, Ellsworth, Wis.; Chris Keefe, Cross Plains, Wis.; Rodney Newkirk, Rochester, Minn.; Tim Cloyd, Runnells, Iowa; John Parezo, Sioux Falls, S. Dak.; Jeff Trzebiatowski, Appleton, Wis.; Terry Dorshorst,

Welcome to the Caledonia Balloon Rally.
Photo by Charlene Corson Selbee

West Salem, Wis.; Sean Eakin, Tomah, Wis.; and Kevin Kamp, Marion, Iowa.

Tom Cloyd from Runnells, Iowa, is this year’s balloon meister. The balloon meister is in charge of and coordinates all the balloon activities at a balloon event. He/she makes sure that the pilots meet all the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) requirements.

Selfie time! Bring your camera to capture the picturesque balloons as they inflate, lift off, and fill the sky with bright colors. #2023CaledoniaBalloonRally

On Saturday, October 21, after the balloon rally, head to the Caledonia City Auditorium Gymnasium from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. for a free event. Enjoy a freewill donation hot dog lunch, a gift basket extravaganza launch, photo booth, Balloons by Kevin, pumpkin decorating, canvas painting for kids, musical chairs, face painting and tattoos, toss games, lollipop pull,and more. Local author Leanne M. Benson will lead storytelling activites throughout the day.

Upcoming Bluff  County events: 

• October 20-21, Oktoberfest, Prairie du Chien, Wis.

• October 21, Arts & Crafts Fair, Rushford, Minn.

• October 28, Haunted Harmony, Harmony, Minn.

• October 28, Hole in the Sock Gang 1880s Street Theatre, McGregor, Iowa

The Visit Bluff Country Magazine is delivered to more than 1,000 locations in 35 counties in Iowa, Illinois, Minnesota, and Wisconsin.  This magazine has a mission of promoting tourism in the Historic Bluff Country (Driftless) region.

For information on upcoming town festival and events in Historic Bluff Country, vacation ideas for lodging, recreation, dining and shopping, check out the magazine in print or online at www.visitbluffcountry.com.