Who doesn’t love a colorful fall getaway packed with fun adventures, beautiful scenery, and a few great meals, glasses of wine, or pints of beer? That’s exactly what’s waiting for you when you visit Wisconsin this fall. And when you add in a visit to Wyalusing State Park in Wisconsin, you can add a spectacular fall bird migration to your list of things to do in Wisconsin this fall.
Perched high above the confluence of the Wisconsin and Mississippi Rivers, Wyalusing State Park offers sweeping views and a front-row seat to one of North America’s greatest natural spectacles: The fall migration along the Mississippi Flyway. As hundreds of bird species make their journey south for the winter, birders can catch sight of hawks, warblers, bald eagles, and even the occasional peregrine falcon. With its mix of river bluffs, wooded valleys, and open prairie, Wyalusing stands out among Wisconsin state parks for its rich biodiversity and dynamic landscapes.
Whether you’re here for the birds or that’s just a happy coincidence, you’ll enjoy getting out on the Wyalusing State Park trails. From the Bluff Trail, which overlooks the river, to the Sand Cave Trail and Sentinel Ridge Trail, there’s no shortage of unforgettable hiking in Wisconsin at this one park. And if you’re planning a fall getaway, the changing leaves only amplify the beauty of these Wisconsin hiking trails. Birdwatchers, photographers, and leaf-peepers alike will find plenty to love in this quiet corner of Wisconsin’s scenic Driftless Region.
After a full day of birding and hiking, you’ll want a place to relax. Fortunately, the region around Wyalusing and the Great River Road is dotted with welcoming small towns and excellent accommodations. Some of the best stays are found at bed and breakfasts and boutique hotels, especially those that partner with the Midwest Association of Independent Inns. With our Bed and Breakfasts in Wisconsin, you’ll enjoy a high standard of comfort, charm, and local hospitality.
From insider tips on things to do in Wisconsin, from exploring historic towns like Prairie du Chien to paddling the backwaters of the Mississippi and chasing peak foliage, we’re here to help you plan a well-rounded and memorable fall getaway. Book your stay today!
A Fall Afternoon at Wyalusing State Park
Wyalusing State Park is one of the most scenic and ecologically rich state parks in Wisconsin, and it’s a favorite among hikers, wildlife enthusiasts, and birdwatchers. Located near the town of Prairie du Chien, Wyalusing State Park spans over 2,600 acres and sits high above the confluence of the Mississippi and Wisconsin Rivers. This elevated setting offers stunning overlooks and a front-row seat to the Mississippi Flyway, one of the most significant bird migration corridors in North America.
There’s no shortage of things to do in Wyalusing State Park. You can paddle through the backwaters of the Mississippi, visit the Native American burial mounds, or catch a sunrise from one of the park’s scenic bluff lookouts. But it’s the Wyalusing State Park trails where you’ll spend most of your day. The Bluff Trail, which is just under 1 mile long, is one of the most popular trails in this Wisconsin State Park. It offers exceptional views of the rivers and is a great place to spot birds.
A fun offshoot is Treasure Cave, a small limestone cave accessible via stairs. The Native American Mounds are found along the Sentinel Ridge Trail, which is 1.6 miles long and offers panoramic views of the river valleys below. For those who want to see waterfowl up close and personal, and paddle their way through this scenic river slough, there’s a 6-mile canoe trail that offers exceptional opportunities for just that. The trail is well-marked, and in peak season, canoes and kayaks can be rented from park concessions.
Wyalusing State Park is a fantastic year-round destination, but fall is particularly special. As the leaves change, the landscape comes alive with vibrant colors, and the skies fill with migrating birds, offering prime conditions for birdwatching in Wisconsin. If you’re here for the birds, bring your binoculars and a good field guide. More than 100 species pass through during migration season, making this park a bucket-list stop for fans of Wisconsin birdwatching.
You’ll likely spot bald eagles, great egrets, thrushes, and woodpeckers, but the real excitement comes during peak migration. Thousands of warblers, hawks, and waterfowl funnel through this region each fall, using the Mississippi River as their guide. The park’s combination of forest, prairie, and river habitat means you’ll see a wide variety of birds of Wisconsin, often in large numbers. Early mornings and late afternoons are best for sightings, especially along the bluffs. If you’re looking for even more birdwatching experiences, don’t miss the nearby Pikes Peak State Park in Iowa or the Upper Mississippi National Wildlife and Fish Refuge.
Nearby Lodging at the Best Wisconsin Bed and Breakfasts
Pairing a fall birdwatching trip to Wyalusing State Park with a stay at a nearby bed and breakfast adds an entirely new dimension to your getaway, one that brings you closer to the heart of Wisconsin communities. After a day spotting migrating warblers and soaring raptors along the Mississippi Flyway, there’s nothing better than returning to a place that feels elevated yet just like home. Our collection of Midwest Bed and Breakfasts go far beyond what you’ll find at most modern hotels and offer a thoughtful alternative for lodging.
Our member Bed and Breakfasts in Wisconsin are often tucked into the state’s most charming towns, including some near Wyalusing State Park. These Inns are perfectly positioned for exploring the entirety of the Great River Road, where you’ll find even more impressive birding hotspots to enjoy. Whether you’re strolling local shops in Prairie du Chien, visiting nearby historic sites, or grabbing dinner at a farm-to-table restaurant, your innkeeper will likely have the best recommendations in their area.
Inside the inn, you’ll enjoy cozy, beautifully designed spaces and often a freshly prepared breakfast that showcases local ingredients and flavor. It’s a thoughtful and relaxed way to start the day before heading out for more adventures in local parks and nearby Wisconsin hiking trails. These inns are also deeply connected to their communities, so you’ll learn more about the region than you ever could from a guidebook.
It’s this local insight, paired with exceptional service and authentic charm, that makes your trip feel rooted and real. Whether you’re planning your first birding trip or returning to chase more Wisconsin birds, make the most of it by staying somewhere that values quality, connection, and care. Book your stay at one of our top-rated places to stay in Wisconsin today!