| The La Crosse River State Trail runs west from Sparta to La Crosse. This trail is uniquely different than the Elroy-Sparta trail. Much of the Elroy-Sparta trail is shaded by an umbrella of trees whereas the La Crosse River trail is open and mostly unshaded. This provides exposure to the warm sun & breathtaking views of Wisconsin's finest farmland, prairie and wetlands. On this trail you'll see sandhill cranes, deer, hawks, birds and impressive views of passing freight trains. Because much of the trail parallels a Canadian Pacific railway main line, you'll get up-close views of these monsters of commerce. Close enough to see the conductor smile and wave at you, but far enough away to be safe! | 
