
Perrot State Park
Discover breathtaking bluff hikes and serene river paddling at Perrot State Park, a Wisconsin gem.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant temps, fewer crowds

Perrot State Park
Best Time
Pleasant temps, fewer crowds

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover breathtaking bluff hikes and serene river paddling at Perrot State Park, a Wisconsin gem.
"Stunning scenic hiking trails with challenging climbs and rewarding river views."

👟 Sturdy Footwear is Key
Bluff trails have steep inclines & stairs. Good hiking shoes are a must for safety and comfort!
💧 Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate!
Bring plenty of water, especially for the challenging bluff hikes. Stay refreshed on the trail.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Brady's Bluff Trail
Western side of the park
Tackle this challenging trail for breathtaking panoramic views of the Mississippi River valley.

River Loop Trail
Near the campground
A moderate hike offering scenic river views and a chance to spot local wildlife.

Canoe/Kayak Trails
Trempealeau River backwaters
Explore serene waterways, spotting eagles, herons, and turtles from the water.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Conquer the Bluffs: Hike Smart
Embrace the Waterways
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Sturdy Footwear is Key
Bluff trails have steep inclines & stairs. Good hiking shoes are a must for safety and comfort!
💧 Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate!
Bring plenty of water, especially for the challenging bluff hikes. Stay refreshed on the trail.
🛶 Paddle the Backwaters
Rent a canoe or kayak for a unique perspective & wildlife spotting. Paddles & lifejackets included!
🦅 Look for Wildlife
Keep an eye out for eagles, herons, and turtles along the river and backwaters.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Sturdy Footwear is Key
Bluff trails have steep inclines & stairs. Good hiking shoes are a must for safety and comfort!
💧 Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate!
Bring plenty of water, especially for the challenging bluff hikes. Stay refreshed on the trail.
🛶 Paddle the Backwaters
Rent a canoe or kayak for a unique perspective & wildlife spotting. Paddles & lifejackets included!
🦅 Look for Wildlife
Keep an eye out for eagles, herons, and turtles along the river and backwaters.
⬆️ East Side for Brady's Bluff
Start Brady's Bluff from the EAST for a less strenuous climb, according to one visitor.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Perrot State Park for its stunning scenic hiking trails, particularly the challenging bluff climbs that offer breathtaking Mississippi River views. The park's natural beauty, wildlife viewing opportunities, and serene paddling routes are also frequently highlighted. Some minor concerns were raised regarding bathroom upkeep, though shower facilities were noted as adequate.
"I love this place some of the best and most scenic hiking trails in the wisconsin state park system that I found so far. Just be aware that these trails have a lot of elevation gain and drop and can be considered challenging to some people. But if you can brave the hike, the views are stunning. I would highly recommend."
Hunter Poff
"Perrot State Park was an excellent choice for a long weekend. Easy to Back In sites. We were in Site 32. The sites are not on top if each other - plenty of privacy.
Bathrooms were the only reason this is a 4 vs a 5 Star review. The up keep was just ok, though the showers were hot.
Brady's Bluff and the River loop tour was a good hike, 3.2 miles. We went up Brady's west - steeper and more stairs, but still a really good hike."
Todd Bavery
"Also left some other reviews and photos for individual attractions within the park -
Perrot State Park is a lot of fun, with lots of elevation changes due to many bluffs in the park. It’s a great place to view driftless features like peaks, valleys, some outcroppings, and bluffs as mentioned
Good variety of hiking, including woods, prairie, elevation, waterfall/punchbowl and short wildflower hike near the nature center
Overall a good time! See my other reviews for more attractions"
Hank Zane
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Perrot State Park is located in Trempealeau, Wisconsin, nestled where the Trempealeau and Mississippi rivers meet. It's accessible by car via Highway 35. The park is well-signed from the main road.
Public transportation options directly to Perrot State Park are limited. It's best to travel by car. If you're coming from a nearby city like La Crosse, consider ride-sharing services or a rental car.
The Great River State Trail is easily accessible from the park's campground. You can bike or walk directly from your campsite onto the trail for a scenic ride along the Mississippi River.
Yes, Perrot State Park offers ample parking throughout the park, including near trailheads, picnic areas, and the park headquarters. Parking is generally free with park admission.
While not a primary access point, the Mississippi River offers opportunities for boaters to explore the area. However, dedicated boat launches within the park are limited.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, a Wisconsin State Park admission sticker is required for entry. You can purchase daily or annual stickers at the park office or online through the Wisconsin DNR website.
Perrot State Park is generally open year-round from 6 AM to 11 PM. However, specific facilities like campgrounds and visitor centers may have different operating hours. It's always a good idea to check the official park website for the most up-to-date information.
Canoe and kayak rentals are available at the park headquarters for approximately $20, which includes paddles and life jackets. This is a great way to explore the backwaters.
While there aren't specific discounts for Perrot State Park entry beyond the standard state park sticker, consider purchasing an annual sticker if you plan to visit multiple Wisconsin state parks throughout the year.
Yes, it is highly recommended to book campsites in advance, especially during peak season. Reservations can be made through the Wisconsin State Park reservation system.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Brady's Bluff Trail is a must for its challenging climb and rewarding views. The River Loop Trail offers a more moderate experience with scenic river vistas. There's also a wildflower hike near the nature center.
Absolutely! The park's diverse habitats, including bluffs, forests, and river backwaters, make it a prime spot for birdwatching. Keep an eye out for eagles, herons, and various songbirds.
Yes, Perrot State Park has several designated picnic areas with tables and grills, perfect for a relaxing meal amidst nature. Some are located near the river for scenic dining.
Visitors often report seeing bald eagles, great blue herons, turtles, and various other bird species. Deer are also common.
While many trails involve significant elevation changes, some areas like the nature center and certain picnic spots are more accessible. The Great River State Trail is also a paved, relatively flat option.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no restaurants located directly within Perrot State Park. You'll need to bring your own food for picnics or plan to dine in the nearby town of Trempealeau.
The town of Trempealeau offers several local dining options, including cafes and pubs. Visitors have enjoyed stopping in town for a meal after exploring the park.
Yes, most campsites at Perrot State Park are equipped with fire rings and picnic tables, allowing you to cook over a campfire or use your own portable grill.
There are small grocery stores in Trempealeau for essential supplies. For a wider selection, you might consider stocking up in larger nearby towns like La Crosse.
Local eateries often feature classic American fare, including burgers, sandwiches, and fish fry specials. Some places may also offer regional Wisconsin specialties.
📸 📸 Photography
The summit of Brady's Bluff offers incredible panoramic views, especially during sunrise and sunset. The river backwaters provide opportunities for wildlife and serene landscape shots.
Golden hour, shortly after sunrise and before sunset, provides the most dramatic and beautiful lighting for landscape and wildlife photography. Midday can be harsh.
Capturing the expansive Mississippi River valley from the bluffs, the tranquil canoe trails, and any wildlife sightings like eagles are highly recommended photo opportunities.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the sweeping vistas from the bluffs. A telephoto lens is useful for wildlife photography. Don't forget a sturdy tripod for low-light conditions.
Yes, Perrot State Park is a popular location for engagement and wedding photos due to its stunning natural scenery. Many photographers utilize the bluff views and riverfront.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Hikers Seeking a Challenge
🛶 Paddlers and Nature Lovers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Hiking the Bluffs: A Thrill Seeker's Delight
For those seeking a less intense experience, the River Loop Trail provides a more moderate hike with beautiful river vistas and opportunities to observe the park's natural beauty. The park also offers shorter, more accessible trails, including a wildflower hike near the nature center, ensuring there's a trail for every visitor. Remember to check trail conditions, especially after inclement weather, as some paths can become slippery.
Paddling Paradise: Exploring the Waterways
Paddling here offers excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing. Keep your eyes peeled for majestic bald eagles, graceful herons, and basking turtles along the riverbanks and in the shallow waters. The tranquil atmosphere of the backwaters, combined with the chance to observe wildlife up close, makes for a memorable adventure. It's a refreshing alternative to hiking and offers a different perspective of the park's diverse ecosystems.
Camping and Connectivity
While the park offers a natural escape, it's worth noting that cell service can be spotty in certain areas. If you rely on your phone for navigation or communication, be prepared for potential connectivity issues. However, this can also be an advantage for those looking to disconnect and immerse themselves in nature. The park's proximity to the Great River State Trail also makes it an ideal base for cyclists exploring the region.


Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit