A Wisconsin hike high above the Mississippi
Perrot State Park – For me, a hike to the top is a thrill. Sometimes, the view helps me forget I have Parkinson’s disease for a little while.
Whether it’s a bluff, a ranger tower, a mountain peak, or just a small hill in the neighborhood, high points are the best.
But as my disease progresses, I’m getting more cautious about heights and exposure to falls.
I found a hike that strikes a good balance of safety, adventure, and a solid workout. (Jump to hike stats.)
The Brady Bluff and Perrot Ridge Bluff trails in Wisconsin’s Perrot State Park, on the western border of Wisconsin, goes to the top of the Mississippi River bluffs.
The trail is about as close to a mountain hike as you can get in the Midwest.
You’ll have great views of the river and of Minnesota across the way. If you’re lucky, you might see a bald eagle soar right by you!
The hike Mr. Unshakable and I took was a combo of the Brady Bluff and Perrot Ridge trails.
At the trailhead across the parking lot, we took a left onto the Brady Bluff Trail. Going clockwise meant the steeper elevation would be at the beginning of the hike, and I’d rather go up a steep hill than down it.
On the first part of the Brady Bluff Trail, you’ll find uneven steps and trail rocks that look like they were supposed to be helpful but aren’t anymore, like these.
Parkinson’s tip
You definitely will get your exercise. But take heart: Much of the trail’s 800 feet of elevation gain is over after the first 15-20 minutes.
There are no benches along the way, but you should be able to find secure places just off the trail to sit for a rest.
Parkinson’s tip
This is the place on this trek where there is a short stretch of exposure, a slope to the left about 30 feet down. Poles will help keep you safe. Or, have a partner walk within arm’s length behind you for added security.
Parkinson’s tip
Looking at a view while walking is dangerous, especially for the less-sure footed. If you want to look, STOP and plant your feet first.
At the top of the bluff was a large hut, built by the Depression-era CCC, or Civilian Conservation Corps.
Sleeping overnight in the shelter is permitted, if that’s your thing.
Nice view! The train whistling across the way reminded us that we weren’t far from civilization.
Just after the hut, we took a right to go inland. Then we turned right at the first junction to jump onto the Perrot Ridge Trail and hike to the second high point.
The elevation is not so intense for this second “peak,” and there is no exposure.
There’s also not much of a view, even with the leaves off the trees.
But it was the top.
The downward trek back to the parking lot was mostly a gentle slope.
I really enjoyed the hike for its variety and views. We completed it in just under two hours.
Hike info
PD difficulty level (see chart): Moderate
Distance: 3.5 miles roundtrip
Elevation gain: about 800 feet
Trailhead location: 26247 Sullivan Rd, Trempealeau, Wisconsin
Bathrooms: At trailhead
Emergency medical support: in town, within 5 miles
Costs: State vehicle one-day sticker, $8-$11 ($3 for 65+)
Road access: park next to trailhead
Insider tip: We hiked this in late December, but only because there was no snow on the ground – very unusual for the area. If it had been snowy or icy, we would’ve found another trail. Click here for current snow depths.
(Blue line on map was the first portion of the hike, green was from the second highest-point and back to the trailhead.)
(Go back to top)
Beautiful vistas! And great tips for any hike! Thank you for sharing Colleen!! Keep up the great writing!
Thank you for the feedback! I’m hoping to go back to this trail in the summertime.