2023 Destination Driftless Exploration Guide

DRIFTLESS Destination

EXPLORATION GUIDE 2023 [ published by the driftless journal ]

Everyone 312 West Water Street downtown Decorah SUPPLIES • GEAR • ACCESSORIES

ONEOTA COMMUNITY

FOOD

welcome

COOPErative

563-382-4666 oneotacoop.com

decorah, iowa

One of the oldest and most recognized operating B&Bs in Minnesota

HISTORIC

Little River General Store

Lanesboro’s premier outfitting service for retail, rental & repair

SHUTTLE SERVICE AVAILABLE

­ ­ ­ ­

Fuji Bicycles

HOUSE INN ­ ­ ­

All rooms & suites include:

Recumbents

E-Bikes

Trail-a-Bikes

Kiddie Karts

Tube s Rental 2

Full breakfast served weekends

www.scanlanhouse.com

driftlessjournal.com

n o i t a n i dest

Boutique Station ...for fashion as unique as you are

TRENDY • CHIC • STYLISH • FASHIONABLE

Featuring women’s clothing sizes Small-3X, including: JEANS • ACCESSORIES • BAGS SHOES • LOCALLY-MADE JEWELRY

THE BOUTIQUE STATION

41178 Highway 16, Peterson, MN 507-875-2693

www.boutiquestation.net FOLLOW US

Mon-Fri 10-6 • Sat 10-5 • Sun 12-5

Call for a private event!

DRIFTLESS FUN FACT: South of Houston, Minn., Schech’s Mill, a working three-story mill of native stone, still has original equipment.

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DESTINATION DRIFTLESS

Welcome to the Driftless Region! A place where you’ll find some of the most interesting geological formations, outdoor amenities like trails and parks, attractions, museums, small businesses and just plain friendly folks who are glad to call the Driftless home. Whether for a visit, or looking for a place to call home, the Driftless Region is full of opportunity for fun, life-long learning, new experiences and beginning new friendships and family traditions.

With an array of elevations, from 603 to 1,719 feet, the area was never touched by glacial deposits, or drift, so largely remained topographically diverse and curvy. Steep hills, bluffs, deeply carved rivers, spring-fed waterfalls and streams are common throughout the area, offering outdoor enthusiasts a wide variety of options for trout and other fishing, hunting, kayaking, canoeing and tubing, hiking and biking.

Glacial drift is composed of clay, sand, silt, gravel and boulders, which are absent from the majority of the region, leaving the landscape unspoiled by glaciers as they carved through the midwest. Some compare the Driftless to the Appalachian or eastern coastal areas of the United States. One thing is for sure, it is a visually varied and exciting landscape to enjoy in the heart of the midwest.

The people here are hardy and resilient, withstanding temperatures ranging from -40 degrees in winter to 105 in the summer. They have mastered amazing skills and open small, independent businesses which ensure visitors and locals alike can enjoy the natural beauty of the area, locally grown and produced food, shopping, a wide array of gifts, entertainment and cozy and unique places to stay.

Visitor or local, we encourage you to explore this Destination Driftless Guide and plan not one, but multiple getaways to this untouched piece of heaven, offering the best of natural beauty and outdoors offerings, as well as the benefits of thriving, vibrant towns bursting with energy and enthusiasm.

Make sure to include county fairs and town celebrations in your itinerary to get all the flavor and fun there is to encounter.

We welcome you to visit, return and explore the wonderful features of this guidebook and this area as you plan your next destination in the Driftless. The glaciers missed the Driftless Region, but you don’t have to!

FEATURED CONTENT

Phelps Park, Decorah, IA

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PLAY TO WIN - SUMMER CONTEST................... 9-11 Attractions ................................. 14, 87, 32, 51, 64 Education ..................................................... 64, 80 Entertainment ...................... 26, 38, 39, 50, 52, 82 Events .................................................... 20, 22, 72 Farmer’s Markets................................................ 24 Recreation ............................ 14, 18, 34, 40, 48, 57 ............................................ 58, 66, 72, 78, 86, 88 Fold-out Maps ....................................... A, B, C, D driftlessjournal.com

ADVERTISING DIRECTORY

ATTRACTIONS Allamakee County, Iowa .......................71 Bily Clocks ................................................86 Carnegie Cultural Center......................85 Chatfield Center for the Arts ................59 Chatfield, Minnesota .............................59 Cresco Theatre & Opera House .........89 Eagle Bluff Environmental Learning Center & High Ropes Challenge...49 Elkader, Iowa .......................................... 79 Elkader Opera House ........................... 79 Fayette County, Iowa ............................84 Giants of the Earth Heritage Center ..62 Guttenberg, Iowa ...................................76 Harmony, Minnesota .................... 44, 45 Howard County, Iowa .......................... 87 International Owl Center ......................48 Lansing, Iowa ...........................................69 Laura Ingalls Wilder Park & Museum ...........................................23 Lost Island Water and Theme Park ..... 41 Marquette & McGregor, Iowa .......... 77 Niagara Cave ........................................ 46 Nordic Lanes ............................................54 Postville, Iowa ......................................... 73 Prairie du Chien, Wisconsin .................75 Rushford Peterson Valley, Minnesota..55 Seed Savers Exchange ........................ 25 Spook Cave .............................................74 Spring Grove, Minnesota .....................65 The Ax Hole at Lid’s................................93 Town Theater........................................... 70 Vesterheim Norwegian American Museum & Folk Art School.............. 13 Waukon, Iowa ........................................ 70

LODGING - CAMPGROUNDS A Guest Hus Motel ................................49 Amish Valley Cabin................................ 37 B&B on Broadway..................................23 Bear Creek Cabins .................................. 43 Bluff Country Retreat ..............................51 Bluffton Resort & Bar..............................23 Broadway Guest House....................... 57 Courtyard by Marriott ...........................62 Decorah High Point Cabin Rentals ..... 19 Eagle Cliff Campground & Lodging ...53 Eagle View Motel & Retreat.................76 Fairfield by Marriott ................................28 Historic Scanlan House B&B.................. 2 Little Switzerland Inn...............................74 Outback Ranch........................................52 Stoney Creek Hotel ................................63 Red Barn Resort & Campground.........69 Red’s Retreat & Guesthouse ................29 River Run Rentals .................................... 67 Root River Inn & Suites ...........................53 The Elkader Campground .................... 79 The Roundhouse Retreat ........................42 Upper Iowa Resort .................................68 EDUCATION KinderHaus Outdoor Preschool........... 31 Luther College............................................ 6 ENTERTAINMENT - EVENTS Fort Atkinson Rendezvous .....................86

Hesper-Mabel Steam Engine Days ....43 Lawler Irish Fest........................................85 NEIA Artist’s Studio Tour........................ 16 Nordic Fest 2023................................... 21 Oneota Film Festival ............................. 90 Turkey River Music Festival .................. 36 Winneshiek County Fair ........................35 FOOD - DRINK Aroma Pie Shoppe .................................49 B&B’s Fremont Store ..............................51 Barney’s Bar & Grill................................23 Big Buoys Tiki Bar .................................. 77 Bleu Duck Kitchen & Oyster Bar ........ 60 Bluffton Resort & Bar..............................23 Center Street Bar ‘n Grill .......................74 Convergence CiderWorks................... 27 Double “D” Liquor Store ....................... 70 Elkader Pizzeria....................................... 81 Elsie’s......................................................... 47 Empty Nest Winery ...............................68 Green Valley Getaway ........................ 70 Heaven Boutique Winery.....................83 HyVee....................................................... 37 Jalapeños Mexican Cuisine................. 73 Kwik Trip/Star ..........................................35 Lid’s Bar & Grill ........................................93 Little Miami Bar & Restaurant .............. 67 Luna Valley Farm ......................................23 Magpie Cafe & Coffeehouse .............33 McAllister Catering & Heritage Event Center .................... 87 Mill Street Mocha ................................... 31 Old Armory BBQ ................................... 90 Oneota Community Food Cooperative ......................................... 2 Paint Creek Bulk Store & Bakery .........69 Plum Delicious ..........................................15 Pulpit Rock Brewing Co. ....................... 25 Root River 102 .........................................51 Rubaiyat ................................................... 94 Sadie’s Sweet Shop ...............................74 Saxon Hall Pizza & Pub ........................63 Schera’s.................................................... 78 Scooter’s Coffee..................................... 21 Sips & Savors ...........................................85 Some Like It Hot .......................................56 St. Olaf Tavern ........................................ 80 Stellar 181 Taphouse ..............................56 T -Bock’s Sports Bar & Grill ...................35 Taqueria Pato Azul ................................. 60 TD’s Sports Bar & Grill.......................... 78 The Albatross Food Truck ...................... 16 The Brim Coffeehouse ........................... 81 The Creamery ..........................................54 The Crooked Quarter ........................... 47 The High Court Pub ................................53 The Landing Market .................................. 8 Toppling Goliath Taproom ....................17 Twin Springs Supper Club.................... 90 Water Street Deli ................................... 25 Winneshiek Wildberry Winery........... 12 HEALTH - WELLNESS - SPA Chateau de Chic Salon Spa Boutique. 56 Day Spring Spa ....................................... 21 Donlon Pharmacy ...................................... 8

DRIFTLESS FUN FACT: Decorah was the site of a Ho-Chunk village beginning around 1840.

Regional Health Services ........................D Winneshiek Medical Center................ 16 SERVICES - RESOURCES Citizens Savings Bank............................86 Joe & Matt’s Plumbing & HVAC ..........74 KAR Auto Group ..................................... 12 Public Opinion Newspaper ..................76 REALTORS Cedar Valley Iowa Realty/Auction ....23 Friest and Associates Realtors .............15 Kelly Real Estate .....................................33 RECREATION Allamakee County Conservation ........68 Bear Creek Anglers ................................23 Chase the Adventure..............................85 Decorah Parks & Recreation ................15 Harmony Golf Club................................58 Outback Ranch........................................52 Turkey River Corridor ..............................84 RETAIL Ace Kitchen Place/Ace Hardware .... 12 Blue Heron Knittery .................................. 7 Chic by Chateau ....................................56 Country Garden Flowers & Gifts ....... 27 Daisy Kay Crystals ................................ 77 Decorah Bicycles ......................................D Decorah Farmer’s Market .....................29 Depot Outlet ............................................ 31 Donlon Pharmacy .................................... 8 Double Windsor Clothing Co. .............. 8 Dragonfly Books ........................................ 7 Fisk Farm & Home ...................................32 Forest Mills Quilt Shop.......................... 73 Gallery of Tops ........................................29 Hartig Drug ..............................................69 Heavenly Made Gifts & the Gnome Store ............................... 13 K&K Gardens...........................................83 KL Design Co. .......................................... 21 Ladybug Landscapes & Floral ................ 7 LetterWerks Sign City ............................ 12 Little Birds ....................................................D Little River General Store ........................ 2 Market 52.................................................42 Paper Moon Books & Gifts ................. 77 Pinter’s Gardens & Pumpkins ............... 27 Real Deals Rochester ............................. 61 Red-Roxy Quilt Co ..................................29 Rendered Unique ................................... 27 Rochester Farmer’s Markets................. 57 Shear Wonders Boutique...................... 31 Simply Antiques .......................................29 Sparrow’s Candles & Gifts................... 16 Suhdron Fabrics ...................................... 73 The Boutique Station ................................ 3 The Caledonia Gallery .........................48 The Getup .................................................33 The Ox & Wren .......................................89 The Silver Birch .......................................... 7 The Toy Store at Donlon Pharmacy .... 16 Turkey River Mall ..................................... 81 Whalan Depot .........................................49 Windy Pines Greenhouse .................... 67

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Designed

FOR EXPLORATION

Luther College is home to 1,600 students who learn actively and build lives of impact on our stunning 1,000-acre campus.

Our collective sense of wonder knits together opportunities from every thread. Luther is a great place for visitors to wander, hike, take a tour, and enjoy nature.

luther.edu

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Christian Books, Bibles, Gifts, Church Supplies and Cards

Dragonfly Books owner Kate Rattenborg invites you to visit

Great Gifts Readings & Signings

Fantastic Selection

Bestsellers Mysteries Puzzles Poetry Childrens Books Scandinavian And more!

Get your book buzz! formerly The Master’s Touch

Hooray!

Hooray!

We’re We’re celebrating celebrating 9 years in 12 years in business!

family-owned

business!

Knowledgeable Staff

Open Daily!

Open daily! 563-382-4275 • 112 West Water St. Decorah

www.dragonflybooks.com

112 W Water St., Decorah • 563-382-4275

www.dragonflybooks.com

BLUE HERON KNITTERY Purveyor of fine yarns, knitting & crocheting supplies, books & patterns

WaterSt., St, Decorah 104104 WW Water Decorah• •563-382-4432 563-382-4432 www.silverbirchdecorah.com

www.silverbirchdecorah.com

Garden Center, Floral & Landscape Services

Instruction offered for beginning knitting and crochet.

Ladybug Landscapes Al & Anita Weis & Floral “Your Gardening

563-387-0217

906 S. Mechanic St., Decorah

Friends Since 1994”

www.ladybugdecorah.com

DRIFTLESS FUN FACT: Spot a gnome in a home? It’s likely a hand-painted wooden Nisse, based in Norwegian folklore in the award-winning style of Laura Hoeg. 7

Need help managing your meds?

medication packaging solution that can help Contact our pharmacist today!

ILY DA

MEN’S CLOTHING STORE

309 W. Water St., Decorah • 563-277-1317

You never get a second chance to make a first impression

We have a

safe & convenient

N OP E

HOURS Monday-Friday: 9am-6pm

DEVIL DOG & GRAND RIVER JEANS SAXX UNDERWEAR • TUX RENTAL DRESS & FUN SOCKS • SHOES BALL CAPS • FORMAL HATS

and more!

Most sizes available. New inventory weekly!

Saturday 9am-3pm

Shop online at www.doublewindsorcc.com Mon-Sat 9-6 Sun 12-4

201 W. Water St., Decorah 563.382.2626

www.donlonrx.com

Open breakfast, lunch & dinner

hot drinks cocktails açaí bowls charcuterie sweet treats

rs o d n e V www.thelandingmarket.com 211 College Drive, Decorah • 563-277-1893 8

driftlessjournal.com

PLAY TO WIN PLAY TO WIN PLAY TO WIN PLAY TO WIN PLAY TO WIN PLAY TO WIN

er m m u BITES & SITES S ontest

C SCAVENGER HUNT

e iz r P d n a r WIN A BIKE G OR ONE OF OUR OTHER EXCELLENT PRIZES!

HOW TO PLAY: • Take a selfie visiting locations or completing actions on the Bites and Sites Scavenger Hunt List. Photos are worth 10, 20 or 50 points.

All players who earn at least 200 points are entered into the Grand Prize Drawing for a new bicycle from

• Collect 200 points to earn your first entry into the grand prize drawing. Each additional 100 points collected earns players additional grand prize drawing entries.

• All photos must be emailed to contest@driftlessjournal.com by 9/7/23 at 5:00 p.m. to be entered into the Grand Prize Drawing. * Official rules at: DriftlessJournal.com

10 POINT SELFIE SITES

Send us a selfie doing any or all of these activities, earn 10 points each!

Little River General Store in Lanesboro, MN .

Bicycle choice details and official contest rules at DriftlessJournal.com

! n i W

Public art or backyard view, simply send us a selfie showing us your most loved Driftless sight.

Cast your line and wait for a bite at any Driftless fishing site.

Picture yourself painting, hiding or finding a #DecorahRock.

First 100 players to earn 250 points receive a

driftless bites & Sites t-shirt!

TURN THE PAGE FOR COMPLETE SCAVENGER HUNT LIST 9

PLAY TO WIN PLAY TO WIN PLAY TO WIN PLAY TO WIN PLAY TO WIN PLAY TO WIN

BITES & SITES SCAVENGER HUNT

20 POINT

SELFIE SITES

Solve the clues, visit the sites, send us your selfies.

His angel on the hilltop at the end of the row, Onstine’s town sits below.

Of Decorah’s three, you’ll get points for a selfie at Malanaphy.

About a half-mile HP Trail trek will lead you to this deck. Down the steps you’ll stroll to overlook the hole.

The name of this lookout matches the color of the big muddy river.

Oh what a sight it will deliver!

Take an Oak-ay selfie high above Minnesota’s city of parks, trees and trails.

Our town’s oldest and largest provides breathtaking sights from Trollkor’s heights.

TURN BACK FOR HOW TO PLAY

Hide away in Allan Magee country and snap a selfie at this cedar adventure land.

A hop and a skip from the Turkey River, you may feel the roar of the mill dam quiver. Tucked away in the back pocket of this town is a little park, with a peace-on-earth mark.

Long before the distillery and soda pop, another brew was made here, and stored in a place where the temp stays the same year-round.

Where Water and River meet, find a sight to fawn over in this county seat.

Ring the bell when you arrive, don’t worry about the neighbors, they aren’t alive. Maybe one of the smallest in the state, grab a seat, there’s room for eight.

Visiting this former stagecoach inn, you’ll be taken back some years.

It was built in 1857 by some of the first MN pioneers.

Built in 1879 to take on grains such as maize, stands this historic structure at the intersection of two, MN highways.

East and west of where Main St. meets the Mississippi, a selfie from either site with the same name will do.

Between the brick city and Iowa’s swiss land, your selfie game will get a boost when you step inside a raptor’s roost.

Summer fun brought to you by....

ORE ST

LITTL E

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Lions, tigers, bears oh my, under the big top, acrobats fly! Find a few felines behind rivertown bar(s), they were always the superstars.

PLAY TO WIN PLAY TO WIN PLAY TO WIN PLAY TO WIN PLAY TO WIN PLAY TO WIN BOUTIQUE STATION

50 POINT

SAXON HALL PIZZA & PUB 702 Main St.,

41178 MN-16, Peterson, MN

FEATURED DESTINATIONS

Brownsville, MN

CENTER STREET BAR N’ GRILL 103 E Center St.,

Visit these featured destinations and send us a selfie with your snack, sip or swag.

SEED SAVERS EXCHANGE 3074 North

Monona, IA

Winn Rd., Decorah, IA

JALAPEÑOS MEXICAN CUISINE 142 S Lawler St.,

ST. OLAF TAVERN106 S Main St., St. Olaf, IA

Postville, IA

THE CREAMERY/NORDIC LANES 407/403 S. Mill Street,

TD’S SPORTS BAR & GRILL 203 Main St SW, Elkader, IA

B&B’S FREMONT STORE 29476 Co. Rd. 29, Utica, MN

Rushford, MN

LETTERWERKS SIGN CITY

TWIN SPRINGS SUPPER CLUB 149 Twin

2957 US-52, Decorah, IA

THE BRIM COFFEEHOUSE

BARNEY’S BAR & GRILL

Springs Rd., Decorah, IA

110 W Bridge St., Elkader, IA

3607 236th Ave. Burr Oak, IA

VESTERHEIM NORWEGIAN AMERICAN MUSEUM 312 W Water St.,

BIG BUOYS TIKI BAR

LITTLE RIVER GENERAL STORE 105 Coffee St. E, Lanesboro, MN

Decorah, IA

BLUFFTON RESORT & BAR 2619 W Ravine Rd.,

ONEOTA COMMUNITY FOOD CO-OP 312 W

WINNESHIEK WILDBERRY WINERY 1966 337th St.,

101 Front St., McGregor, IA

How to win Decorah, IA

Decorah, IA

Water St., Decorah, IA

200

250

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400

Receive Prize POINTS POINTS POINTS POINTS = = = Drawing Entries First=prize Free T-shirt Second prize Third prize drawing entry drawing entry drawing entry (first 100 players) 32+ flavors as you earn Try them all!

Each additional 100 points collected earns players additional grand prize drawing entries. A total points... of 1,300 possible points = 12 total entries possible per player.

• Daily Lunch Specials • Summer Weekend Pizza Buffet • House Made Pizzas • Locally Sourced burgers

Full Menu | Full Bar Open | 7-9a for breakfast everyday 11-8 Sunday - Thursday 11-9 Friday - Saturday Open 1 hr later through summer!

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32+ flavors

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Locally Sourced Makes it Taste Better!

• Daily Lunch Specials • Summer Weekend Pizza Buffet • House Made Pizzas • Locally Sourced burgers

beer, bowling Full Menu | Full Bar food + fun

Open | 7-9a for breakfast everyday 11-8 Sunday - Thursday 11-9 Friday - Saturday Open 1 hr later through summer!

Jalapeños AUTHENTIC MEXICAN CUISINE

FOOD + DRINK SPECIALS

RushfordCreame

407 S. Mill Street | Rushford, MN 55971 507.864.7214 | rushfordcreamery.com

beer | cocktails | local brews full menu | daily specials | ice cream happy hour weekdays 3-6 pm RushfordCreamery friday 2 for 1 drinks 6-8 pm

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407 S. Mill Street | Rushford, MN 55971 507.864.7214 | rushfordcreamery.com

LIVE MUSIC

Follow us on social media & RushfordNordicLanes.com to see what‘s happening at the lanes!

403 S. Mill Street | Rushford, MN 55971 507.864.7799 | rushfordnordiclanes.com

Locally Sourced Makes it Taste Better!

open 10a weekends, 11a weekdays

havin' a good time at the lanes!

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NEW & S Y N A M ICLE H E V USED se from! o to cho

101 East Water Street, Decorah, IA 52101 Phone: 563.382.3544 www.decorahacestores.com Mon-Sat 9-5:30; Sun 10-2

Decorah Auto Center 2072 State Hwy 9, Decorah 563-382-3919

Decorah Chevrolet Decorah Chrysler 1815 State Hwy 9, Decorah 563-382-3619

Albertson Auto Center 2748 State Hwy 325, Spillville 563-562-3237

SHOP ONLINE 24/7 FAMILY-OWNED AND OPERATED CAR DEALERSHIPS

200 East Main Street, Decorah, IA 52101 Phone: 563-382-3538 Mon-Sat 8-5:30; Sun 10-2 Locally owned and operated since 1928

The perfect share Share a day place in thetocountry day in the country Theaperfect place to share a day in the country

Event Center • Wedding Venue Tastings Restaurant • Gifts 1966 337th St.,& Decorah, IA (10 miles north of Decorah)

1966 337th St.,563-735-5809 Decorah, IA (10 miles north of Decorah) www.wwwinery.com • sales@wwwinery.com 563-735-5809 Check our website for current hours & seasonal events www.wwwinery.com • sales@wwwinery.com

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Check our website for current hours & seasonal events

driftlessjournal.com

Many different TUMBLERS choices!

Your #1 ion destinat or ec for gift d ch u and so m more!

Heavenly Made Gifts & the Gnome Store 126 E. Water St., Decorah 563-380-1362 HOURS: Tue-Fri 9:30-5:30; Sat 9:30-3

heavenlymadebylindawolfs.com

We have a large variety of GNOMES!

Welcome to Vesterheim, the National NorwegianAmerican Museum and Folk Art School!

Enjoy fun and innovative exhibits, classes, and programs at the dynamic campus and park in scenic Decorah, Iowa, and online at vesterheim.org.

Find everything Scandinavian at Vesterheim’s Museum Store!

One-of-a-kind folk art, accessories, home décor, folk-art supplies, plus much more at store.vesterheim.org.

DRIFTLESS FUN FACT: The meteor impact crater beneath Decorah lay undiscovered until recently because almost none of it is above ground.

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WATERFALLS

Malanaphy Springs State Park, Decorah, IA

Six of Iowa’s 14 great waterfalls are located in the Driftless Region. Many receive national attention each year, including Travel & Leisure Magazine’s 2023 Best Waterfall in Iowa, Decorah’s own Dunning’s Spring.

MALANAPHY FALLS 2834 Bluffton Rd., Decorah

Located northwest of town, Malanaphy Falls is part of the Malanaphy Springs State Preserve, containing a rugged forest, a large spring and a waterfall. Visitors can follow a trail from the parking area to a spring flowing from a cliff’s opening. Visitors are also encouraged to visit the beautiful 10-foot waterfall, which is at the end of a series of cascading falls flowing over a porous lime deposit at their base and emptying into the Upper Iowa River.

DUNNING’S SPRING Quarry St./Ice Cave Rd., Decorah

The Dunning’s Spring waterfall is a 200 yard walk from the gravel parking lot on Ice Cave 14

road, now closed to vehicle traffic. Dunning’s Spring Park includes a picnic table, cookout grill, bonfire grill, bench, scenic overlook, waterfall and stream, stone arch bridge and hiking trails. Ice Cave is a 1/2 mile walk from the gravel parking lot. Head east on Ice Cave Road. Ice Cave is open to the public with no fee for admission.

SIEWER’S SPRINGS, 2321 Siewers Spring Rd., Decorah

Technically a spillway located in Siewer’s Springs Park, the falls are easily accessible and located near a parking lot.

The Decorah Fish Hatchery is located in the park, as well as the Decorah bald eagle nest.

The park is a great spot for fishing and is on the Trout Run Bike Trail.

BRIDAL VEIL FALLS 32264 Pikes Peak Rd. McGregor

The falls are an easy onemile (round-trip) trail hike from the Pikes Peak State Park

parking lot. The trail is wellmarked and kid-friendly. Enjoy a panoramic view of the Mississippi River while visiting the park.

BEULAH SPRING FALLS 13299 Spook Cave Rd., McGregor

Located near the entrance to Spook Cave Campground, the falls are just to the north, on Bloody Run Creek.

BIG SPRING PARK Clayton County X56, Guttenberg

Take a short hike through a beautiful forest to get to the waterfall, a coldwater stream that cascades down a series of limestone bedrock features.

Bonus SE MN Waterfall!

COMO FALLS 9 Mill St., Hokah, MN

Located behind the Hokah Fire Station, the falls are accompanied by picnic tables and charcoal grills for picnics as well as plenty of open grass for family activities.

driftlessjournal.com

n imagine, all natural and h or you ca andcra y fav fted!

Ever

PLUM DELICIOUS cooks & confections

Decorah, Iowa | Denise Lana| 571-266-2151

BONBONS & FUDGE HOLIDAY CANDIES & SO MUCH MORE

110 Court St., Decorah D.J. Friest, Broker Kevin Gossling • Al Peake Randy Iverson • Dave Huinker

Find us at Sparrow’s Candles & Gifts in downtown Decorah

Our Sole Business is

Listing & Selling Real Estate!

Follow us on Facebook for pop-up shop dates & info cottage-made, small-batch gourmet treats

View our other listings at www.friest.com

custom orders small to large | special events & holidays

Summer fun for everyone!

Pulpit Rock Camground

Open April 1 through October 31 (weather permitting) 563-382-9551 • prcamping@decorahia.org parks.decorahia.org/pulpit-rock-campground Our campgrounds are one of the best in the state! We offer a full range of services, including 56 back-in sites, 19 pullthroughs and 37 tent sites. Electrical hook-ups (30 and 50 amp), restroom & shower facilities, dump station & water station, and ice & wood sales. Amenities include a playground, basketball court, volleyball net, Wi-Fi, canoe landing and access to the beautiful Twin Springs Trout Stream and Trout Run Trail. Check our website for rates and other information.

Parks and Trails

Decorah Swimming Pool

Opens Tuesday, May 31 ~ 563-382-2055 parks.decorahia.org/decorah-municipal-pool PUBLIC SWIMMING HOURS Saturday and Sunday: 1:00-6:30 pm Monday thru Friday: 1:00-8:00 pm, with the exceptions noted below for home swim meets and swim lessons. These dates may change if lessons or meets are rescheduled due to weather.

Home Swim Meet Days (public swim will be 1:00-4:00 pm): June 8, 15, 27 Swim Lesson Dates (public swim will be 1:00-5:00 pm & 6:30-8:00 pm): SESSION I: June 13, 15, 16, 17, 20, 21, 22, 24 SESSION II: July 5, 6, 7, 8, 11, 12, 13, 14 SESSION III: July 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 25, 26, 27

parks.decorahia.org

Enjoy our scenic trails for biking, roller blading, running, walking and cross-country skiing. Decorah Parks-Rec has 23 parks and recreational areas, totaling approximately 664 acres, and includes 20+ miles of off-road trails, picnic facilities, playgrounds and popular attractions such as the Dunnings’s Spring waterfall, Pulpit Rock overlook, Community Prairie and other scenic venues.

Special Programs parks.decorahia.org

We offer a full range of special summer programs and events that are open to the public.

DRIFTLESS FUN FACT: Winnebago Indian Chief Winneshiek was an adviser to the War Chief Black Hawk.

parkrec@decorahia.org https://parks.decorahia.org P.O. Box 513 400 Claiborne Drive (City Hall) 563-382-4158 • FAX: 563-382-6525

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CANDLES • GIFTS • JEWELRY • DECOR 200 W. Water St., Decorah 563-379-4452

& MORE!

www.sparrowsdecorah.com

Accidents happen.

Although you’re on vacation, medical needs can still arise. It’s nice to know trusted medical experts are nearby for you. Winneshiek Medical Center offers Urgent and Emergency Care available in Decorah.

Your most trusted partner for health care 16

Look for us in and around Decorah!

SCAN

for updates!

Food by Nathon the Food Dude

APPETIZERS SANDWICHES VEGETARIAN SELECTION

driftlessjournal.com

Toppling Goliath Taproom decorah, IowA

APPETIZERS & Entreés 20+ TAPS & cocktails brewery tours patio & yard games games brewery tours

www.tgbrews.com DRIFTLESS FUN FACT: Karst terrain is characterized by the presence of easily dissolved bedrock, like limestone or dolomite.

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UPPER IOWA RIVER

Upper Iowa River and Pulpit Rock Campground, Decorah, IA

YELLOW RIVER

One of Iowa’s most scenic waterways, the Yellow River begins its journey in the farm fields of eastern Winneshiek County and stretches for more than 50 miles to its confluence with the Mississippi River north of Marquette.

Paddling the Yellow River offers views of some of the most diverse landscapes in Iowa. The 14-mile stretch above the town of Volney is generally recognized as the first navigable section of the Yellow River; in these areas, access to the intimate, faster-flowing water is a 18

The Upper Iowa River is among the most popular and widely-honored waterways in the state; in addition to its nomination as a national Wild and Scenic River in the 1960s, it has also been named one of America’s 100 Greatest Adventures by National Geographic magazine. Despite its name, the Upper Iowa actually originates in southern Minnesota before crossing the border and flowing through Howard, Winneshiek and Allamakee counties for 136 miles.

The Upper Iowa meets the Mississippi River near New Albin, Iowa. The river and its corridor change greatly along its course. At its northern end, the Upper Iowa is characterized by flat, fertile field benches as it runs through open prairies. But downstream it picks up speed and volume, running through upland forests, often lined by vertical limestone bluffs.

Paddlers will share this river with local families, bird enthusiasts, campers, hikers and the wildlife that call this diverse corridor home. Anglers in particular love the Upper Iowa for its diverse species. Trout are abundant, especially near the many coldwater streams that feed the river. Smallmouth bass are found throughout the system and sauger, sturgeon, northern pike, flathead and channel catfish, yellow perch and white bass migrate up from the Mississippi River.

Many folks - grateful residents and appreciative visitors - consider the Upper Iowa one of the most beautiful areas of the Driftless. Limestone bluffs, some 300’ high, are crowned with stands of pine and balsam fir, and the Palisades section is striking enough that many paddlers pause, fish out a camera or phone, and make time for a photo session. Just above one of the more popular takeouts, the Scenic River Road Bridge, is Malanaphy Springs, which plunges into the Upper Iowa to form a pool. These are just a few highlights of a river trip on one of the most scenic rivers in the midwest.

challenge, but the reward is a quicker ride (with adequate water levels) and excellent fishing for brown and rainbow trout.

The middle section of the Yellow River has a kind of split personality. The four-mile stretch between Volney and the Sixteen Bridge is a short, popular afternoon trip that features sharp bends and beautiful bluffs, but relatively mild (7.4 feet/mile drop) flows. The current picks up on the stretch between the Sixteen Bridge to the Yellow River access (10.3 feet/mile drop) and is generally considered the most

challenging.

In its lower reaches, the Yellow River slows considerably as it enters the Yellow River State Forest (YRSF) in its final seven miles. The YRSF is one of only four state forests in Iowa and includes the Effigy Mounds National Monument, where over 200 Indigenous burial sites are located.

For more information about paddling the Yellow River, contact the Northeast Iowa Resource Conservation & Development http://www.northeastiowarcd.org/.

driftlessjournal.com

­

Romantic and secluded

Great for small groups

Plan your fishing trip

Aspen

Balsam

Birch

Couples or small families

Get away and relax

Secluded couple’s getaway

Cedar

Emerald Ash

Magnolia

Large groups welcome

Morning coffee spot

Great for small families

Pine

Spruce

Walnut

DRIFTLESS FUN FACT: Paint Rock Unit of the Yellow River State Forest takes its name from native Indian paintings on a limestone bluff nearby. 19

DRIFTLESS IOWA COMMUNITY CELEBRATIONS

Arlington Arlington Days, July 7-9 Burr Oak Laura Days, June 24 Chester Old Settlers Day, June 10 Cresco Norman Borlaug Harvest Fest, Aug. 25-27 Decorah Syttende Mai, May 17 Nordic Fest, July 27-29 Edgewood Pro Rodeo Days, June 22-25 Elma Old Roundhouse Trail Days, July 7-9 Elkader Sweet Corn Days, July 28-30 Art in the Park Aug. 19-20 Main Street Harvest Festival Oct. 7 Osborne Heritage Days, Oct. 14-15 Get Your Jingle On Nov. 3-4 Fayette Watermelon Days, Sept. 8-10 Fort Atkinson Rendezvous, Sept. 23-24 Guttenberg Art in the Park Aug. 19-20 Germanfest, Sept. 22-23 Holiday Parade, Merchant Open House/German Christmas Market Nov. 25 Hawkeye Fun Days, June 16-17 Lansing Fish Days, Aug. 11-13 Lime Springs Sweet Corn Days, Aug. 11-13 Luana Luana Daze, Aug. 26-27 Marquette Flea Market Under the Bridge May 27-29, July 1-2, Sept 2-3 & Oct. 7-8 20

Nordic Fest, Decorah, IA

Lazy River Wine & Beer Fest, June 24 Emma Big Bear Celebration July 1 Maynard Maynard Days June 23-25 McGregor Lazy River Wine & Beer Fest, June 24 Fall into Art Reception Sept.

16 Fall Art Festival Sept. 30-Oct. 1, 7-8 Fall-Der-All Celebration, Sept. 24 Halloween Parade/Festival, Oct. 28 Festival of Trees Nov. 29-Dec. 2 Monona Hay Days, June 10 Oelwein Oelwein Celebration, June 2-4 Oelwein 150th Celebration July 12-16

Ossian Ossian Fest, Aug. 12 Postville Big 4 Fair, June 16-18 Allamakee County Dairy Days Parade June 16 Protivin Czech Days, Aug. 18-20 Ridgeway Ridgeway Day Off, Jun. 10 Spillville Independence Day Celebration, July 1 St. Lucas St. Lucas Fun Day, June 24 Wadena Lima Leaf Day at Lima Church, Oct.1 Waukon Corn Days, Aug. 4-6 West Union Festival of Lights, after Thanksgiving through Jan. 1

driftlessjournal.com

­

KL

Design Co.

116 Washington Street | Decorah, IA 52101 563.382.0799 | dayspringspa.net

DRIFTLESS FUN FACT: Decorah is not of native Indian origin, but a family name among the Winnebago’s through marriage to a French trader named De Corre. 21

DRIFTLESS MINNESOTA COMMUNITY CELEBRATIONS Brownsville Brownsville Days, June 23-24

Caledonia Founders’ Days, June 15-16 Hot Air Balloon Rally, October TBA Winter Wonderland Christmas Parade and Events, Dec. 1-2 Canton Canton Day Off, Aug. 18-20 Lighted Parade, December TBA Chatfield Western Days, Aug. 10-13 Fall into Fall, Sept. 16 Christmas in the Valley, TBA Eitzen Eitzen Family Fun Fest, July 3-4

Fountain Fillmore County Relay for Life, July 28

Harmony Haunted Harmony, Oct. 28 Fall for Harmony, Sept. 23 Holidays in Harmony, Dec. 13 Houston Houston Hoedown Days, July 28-30

Buffalo Bill Days, Lanesboro, MN

La Crescent Applefest, Sept. 14-17

Preston Trout Days, May 19-21

Lanesboro Rhubarb Fest, June 3 Art in the Park, June 17 Buffalo Bill Days, Aug. 3-6 Fall Craft Beer & Wine Festival, Sept. 23 Fall Into Lanesboro, Oct. 7 Experience the Magic of Lanesboro, Nov. 25

Rushford/City of Rushford Village Rushford Days, July 13-17 Parade of Lights, Dec. 9 Spring Grove Syttende Mai, May 17-21 Uffda Fest, Oct. 6-8 Festival of Trees, Thanksgiving weekend Juletrefest Norwegian Christmas, TBA

Mabel Hesper-Mabel Steam Engine Days, Sept. 8-11 Ostrander Uff Da Day July 8

Peterson Gammel Dag Fest, June 24 Christmas in Peterson, Dec. 9

Spring Valley Ag Days, Aug. 14-20 Christmas on Historic Broadway, Dec. 2

Wykoff Fall Festival, Sept. 22-24

DRIFTLESS AREA COUNTY FAIRS Winneshiek County Fair

Fayette County Fair

Howard County Fair

Fillmore County Fair

Allamakee County Fair

Houston County Fair

Decorah, IA, July 11-15 Cresco, IA, June 21-25

Waukon, IA, July 19-23

West Union, IA, July 18-22 Preston, MN, July 17-23

Caledonia, MN, Aug. 16-20

Clayton County Fair Garnavillo, IA, Aug. 2-6 22

Winneshiek County Fair, Decorah, IA

driftlessjournal.com

Laura Ingalls Wilder PARK & MUSEUM

Museum tours capture the feeling of Burr Oak in 1870’s. Discover how Laura and her family lived and worked in Iowa. Adjacent picnic shelter beside Silver Creek. Replica covered wagon for picture taking.

Annual Laura Day Celebration

June 24, 2023

MUSEUM HOURS: May: Mon.-Sat. 10-4; Sun. 12-4 Memorial Day thru Labor Day: Mon.-Sat. 10-5; Sun. 12-4 www.lauraingallswilder.us Sept. thru mid-Oct.: Thurs.-Sat. 10-4 NO TOURS AFTER 3 P.M. 563-735-5916 3603 236TH AVENUE, BURR OAK, IA 52101

Thinking of staying longer in the area?

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Beautiful campground on the Upper Iowa River •Newly Updated Bar •Kayak & Canoe Rentals, Shuttle Services

EVENTS

Licensed in Iowa

New Decorah office location: 122a West Water St., Decorah

LIVE MUSIC OUTDOOR follow us and SEATING stay connec ted!

Call us at 563-382-8290 or email us to get started!

•Riverfront Campsites •RV Electrical Hookups & Showers Located 15 miles from Decorah in Bluffton, IA

563-735-5738

DRIFTLESS FUN FACT: Spillville’s name came from a misspelling by a postal clerk in the 1850s.

•Seasonal Sites Available •Hot Food, Cold Drinks & Ice

23

FARMERS MARKETS

Caledonia, May-October

Tuesdays from 3-6 p.m. at Gazebo Park

Chatfield, May-October

Thursdays from 3-6 p.m. at Chatfield City Park

Chester, June-September

Thursdays 1-4 p.m. at Chester City Park

Cresco, May-October

Thursdays 3-6 p.m. at Beadle Park Decorah, May-October

Saturdays 8:30-11:30 a.m.

Quarter-mile west of Mabel on Highway 44 Marquette, May-October

Fridays 4-7 p.m. at Driftless Area Wetlands Centre Monona, May-October

Wednesdays 3-6 p.m. at Gateway Park

New Albin, May-September

Fridays 3-6 p.m. at City Park

Wednesdays 3-6 p.m.; Saturdays 8-11 a.m. at the city parking lot across from the Post Office

Oelwein, May-October

Edgewood, June-October

Postville, July-September

Elgin, May-October

Preston Pop-Up Market,

Wednesdays 4-6 p.m. at Edgewood City Park Thursdays 4-6 p.m. at Elgin City Park

Elkader, May-October

Saturday 9 a.m.-1 p.m. at Fast Trak

Fayette, May-October

Wednesdays 3-5:30 p.m. at Water Street Shelter

Guttenberg, May-October

Saturdays 8 a.m.-Noon at 400-block of South River Park Drive Harmony, May-October

Saturdays 9 a.m.-5 p.m. at the intersection of Highway 52 and 2nd Ave. SE Harpers Ferry, May-October

Fridays 5-7 p.m. at Catholic Church parking lot La Crescent, Summer

Tuesdays 4-7 p.m. in parking lot adjacent to Veteran’s Parkway and La Crescent Event Center Lanesboro, May-October

Saturdays 9 a.m.- Noon at Sylvan Park

Lansing, June-September

Every other Thursday, 5-8 p.m. at Clear Creek Park 24

Mabel, May-October

Mondays 3-6 p.m.; Fridays 8-11 a.m. at south city parking lot Thursdays 5-7 p.m. at parking lot at Northeast Iowa RC&D May 20, (til 3 p.m.); Aug. 12; Sept. 16; 10 a.m.-2 p.m. at Fillmore Street, Courthouse parking lot Protivin, May-October

Wednesdays 2:30-5:30 p.m. at Protivin City Park Rochester Farmers Market

Open Year-Round at Graham Park, 112 Arena Dr. SE, Rochester Riceville, May-October

Saturdays 9-11:30 a.m. at 203 Main St.

Rushford Peterson Valley, May-October

Tuesdays 4-6:30 p.m. at 102 N. Mill St.

Spring Grove, May-October

Wednesdays 4-7 p.m. at Viking Memorial Park TBA: Summer Market on Main Spring Valley, May-October

Wednesdays on Broadway, 5-8 p.m. at N. Broadway Ave. Waukon, June-September

Mondays 3:30-6 p.m. at Waukon Fairgrounds

driftlessjournal.com

Iowa’s most charming small-town Bed & Breakfast!

301 W. Water St. Decorah, IA

B&B on

Broadway 563.382.1420

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EXPLORE SEED SAVERS EXCHANGE

Display Gardens | Trails | Visitors Center Visitors Center open March-October 10am to 5pm | 7 days a week Decorah, Iowa · 563.382.6104

seedsavers.org/visit

®

Trails, gardens, and trout streams are open to the public every day, sunrise to sunset.

DRIFTLESS FUN FACT: Decorah’s Ice Cave is one of the largest ice caves in the midwestern United States.

25

OUTDOOR MOVIES

OUTDOOR MUSIC

Ossian

Riverside Park, Spillville, IA

Caledonia

Summer Music in the Park, Tuesdays June-July

Chatfield

Music & Market in the Park, Thursdays June-July

Decorah

Lawn Chair Night, Thursday nights June-August www.visitdecorah.com

Elkader

Main Street Elkader Concert Series, first Friday May-July (locations vary)

Guttenberg

River of Music Events, Fridays June-August at Ingleside Park Celebrate Guttenberg Aug. 5 featuring Elizabeth Mary

Harmony

Back Alley Jam Series, July 4 & 20, Aug. 17

Harpers Ferry

Music in the Park, Sundays June-September at Tillinghast Park

Houston

Southeast Minnesota Bluegrass Festival, May 19-21 & Aug. 17-20 at Cushon’s Peak Campground Lawn Chair Concert Series, Wednesdays in July and August at Trailhead Park

Lanesboro

Rhythms on the Root, June 10, July 8 & Aug. 12, 6 p.m. at Gateway Park (St. Mane Theatre in case of rain) 26

Lanesboro cont.

Bluff Country Gathering Music Festival, May 18-21

Lansing

Music in the Park, May 25, June 22, July 27 & Aug. 24 at Lansing City Park in conjunction with Lansing Farmers Market

Oelwein

Party in the Park Summer Series, second Thursday JuneSeptember

Ossian

Movies & Music in the Pavilion, June-August dates TBA

Peterson

Summer Music Series, Sundays in July at the Historic Peterson Bandstand

Preston

Rhythm by the River, June 8, July 13 & Aug. 10

Rushford

Rushford Music Series, August TBA

Spillville

Summer Concert Series: June 10, July 1 & July 9 & Aug. 25.

Turkey River Music Festival, Aug. 4-5 at Riverside Park

Spring Grove

Music & Market, Wednesdays in May-October at Viking Park

Waterville

Country on the Creek, Aug. 19

Movies & Music in the Pavilion, June 18-Aug. 16 Check “City of Ossian” Facebook page for times and dates Spring Valley

Fins & Films, July 14-15

MOVIE THEATERS Cresco

Cresco Theatre & Opera House 115 Second Ave.W. crescotheatreoperahouse.com

Decorah

Viking 3 111 N. Mechanic St. fridleytheatres.org

Elkader

Elkader Cinema 108 N. Main St. elkadercinema.com

Harmony

The Jem Theater 14 Main Ave. N. jemmovies.com

La Crosse

Marcus Cinema 2032 Ward Ave. marcustheatres.com

The Rivoli Theatre & Pizzeria 117 N. 4th St. rivoli.net

Oelwein

The Grand Theatre 26 S Frederick Ave. oelweingrandtheatre.com

Spring Grove

Spring Grove Cinema 167 W. Main St. sgmovietheater.com

Waukon

Town Theater 38 W Main St. towntheaterwaukon.com

driftlessjournal.com

Country Garden

Flowers & Gifts

Your Downtown Full Service Florist

home decor store & boutique

FIND US ON

HANDCRAFTED HOME DECOR ACCESSORIES MIDWEST INSPIRED CLOTHING 309 E. Water St., Decorah 563-382-4071

www.renderedunique.com

Dest ination Garden Center GARDENS & PUMPKINS

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PUMPKIN PATCH & CORN MAZE

563-382-0010 • 2475 State Hwy 9, Decorah • PintersGardensAndPumpkins.com DRIFTLESS FUN FACT: The Decorah Municipal Bathhouse and Swimming Pool was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2012.

27

Fairfield

By Marriot

Earn Rewards points and stay productive when traveling to Decorah.

•••••••• Conveniently located near Luther College, Trout Run Trail, Seed Savers, Downtown Decorah & Vesterheim Norwegian-American Museum.

•••••••• Jump-start your day with hot breakfast

•••••••• We’ll help you get it done with the courteous service you deserve and smartly designed lobbies and guest rooms with free Wi-Fi throughout the hotel.

•••••••• Indoor Pool and Fitness Center Free Wi-Fi Complimentary Breakfast Pet Friendly Picnic area Onsite Market Place Microwaves and Refrigerators in all rooms 28

2041 Iowa State Highway 9, Decorah | 563-382-8800 driftlessjournal.com

Simply Antiques Nancy Lerdall

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801 East Water St., Decorah, IA

SLEEPS UP TO 13 GUESTS FULL BATH ON EVERY LEVEL 1,100 SQ. FT. RETREAT/ COMMON SPACE 602 W. Water St., Downtown Decorah 563.380.5772 info@redsretreatdecorah.com

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Screen Printing Embroidery Promotional Products

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DRIFTLESS FUN FACT: Decorah’s Vesterheim Norwegian-American Museum is the largest ethnic heritage museum in the U.S.

29

NEIA ARTISTS’ STUDIO TOUR

An “artventure” in the driftless

The 26th annual Northeast Iowa Artists’ Studio Tour is scheduled for Sept. 29, 30 and Oct. 1, 2023.

Take in the area’s fine art and fine craft items including: painting, ceramics, wood, glass, metal, printmaking, mixed media, handmade paper, fiber, etc.

Studios on the tour are located within 40 miles of Decorah in Iowa. The self-guided tour is specially timed so tour-goers can enjoy the fall colors in scenic northeast Iowa.

Studios are open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. each day. In some instances, this is the only time studios are open to the public.

Mark your calendar to get a behind-the scenes view into the artists’ personal workspaces.

For up-to-date information and maps, visit iowaarttour. com or find Northeast Iowa Artists’ Studio Tour on Facebook.

Pictured are artists from the 2022 tour. Potter Jennifer Nahl (above) and blown glass artist Dan Fenn (right).

BLUFF COUNTRY STUDIO ART TOUR Tour 30+ creative spaces this spring

The annual Bluff Country Studio Art Tour is held annually the last full weekend of April. Over 30 artists in Southeast Minnesota’s bluff country will open the doors to their creative spaces for a behind-thescenes studio view not usually offered to the general public.

During this annual self-guided event, these accomplished artists will be displaying their work, demonstrating their processes and selling pottery, paintings, furniture, jewelry, fiber arts and more. Set your own pace and cruise through the scenic hills and valleys of bluff country, exploring one of the area’s most popular attractions: our artists.

Gather a carload of friends for this adventure but leave room for the treasures you find along the way!

The Bluff Country Studio Art Tour is free to attend. The 33 participating studios, galleries and shared spaces (in 21 locations) are open Friday, Saturday and Sunday, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

A map of participating locations is available at bluffcountrystudioarttour.org or download the free Bluff Country Studio Art Tour app from the app store.

30

Pictured above: A mixed media piece by Joleen Emery. Pictured right: Vicky Kurk works on a stained glass piece. Both are featured artists on the 2023 tour.

driftlessjournal.com

909 S. Mill St., Decorah

specialty drinks

breakfast baked & lunch goods

HOURS:

Drive Thru or Walk-uP ONLY

M-F: 6:30AM-3:30PM Sat: 6:30AM-2:30PM

FOLLOW US

DONATE. SHOP. REUSE. Giving Local STORE Is What We Do HOURS: Monday SHOP OFTEN:

- Friday 9-6 Saturday 9 -3

Our large inventory of clothing, books and household goods changes daily.

After h donation dours ro open 24/7p off

RETURN & DONATE: Our inventory changes daily thanks to generous customers who donate their quality used items for reuse.

Giving Local Is What We Do. The profits of the Depot Outlet are donated back to Winneshiek County nonprofit organizations.

DEPOT OUTLET 510 Montgomery Street, Decorah 563-382-2700 | www.depotoutlet.org

selection of A hand-curated

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DRIFTLESS FUN FACT: In the summer, air is drawn down through sinkholes, flows over cold groundwater and is released out vents on the algific talus slopes. 31

VESTERHEIM NORWEGIAN-AMERICAN MUSEUM & FOLK ART SCHOOL

Vesterheim is the National Norwegian-American Museum and Folk Art School, with over 33,000 artifacts and a Heritage Park of 12 historic buildings. This treasure showcases an extensive collection of Norwegian-American artifacts.

Vesterheim’s exhibitions explore the diversity of American immigration through the lens of the Norwegian-American experience and highlight the best in historic and contemporary Norwegian folk and fine arts. USA Today named Vesterheim one of “ten great places in the nation to admire American folk art.”

Exploring Vesterheim’s Main Building with its four floors of incredible artifacts is a delight. Wandering at your own speed, you can linger for as long as you wish at your favorite pieces.

In Heritage Park, the museum’s unique historical buildings are showcased within an accessible, landscaped park.

An exciting new building, called Vesterheim Commons, that will offer an inspiring community gathering space, a beautifully integrated museum campus on the city block and a connection

Embellishment

to folk-art traditions is currently under construction. Completion of new building is anticipated in 2023.

Embellishment July 6, 2023 – January 5, 2024

This special folk art show focuses on the importance of detail in folk art and highlights pieces by contemporary folk artists from around the country. Whether detail means flowing painted motifs, embroidered designs, ornate beadwork or intricate carving to you, embellished designs are the focal point of this show. Carrying forward the spirit and mission of Vesterheim Folk Art School, the exhibition will include woodworking, rosemaling, knifemaking, blacksmithing, jewelry, weaving and fiber arts.

Three locations to serve you!

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915 SHORT ST., DECORAH 563-382-8822 Cresco, Ia • 563-547-2492 Monona, Ia • 563-539-2405 Open: Mon.-Fri. 7:30-5:30; Sat. 7:30-5; Sun. 10-2 32

LAWN & GARDEN HARDWARE FARM SUPPLIES TOOLS GIFTS & MORE

driftlessjournal.com

Teamwork From The Team That Works Best!

We’re

PROUD to be

Winneshiek County’s #1

Real Estate Firm!

Front Row: Jayme Folkedahl, Gina Smith, Keegan Steinlage, Mike Kelly, Marcia Madrigal. Back Row: Trent Ostby, Janice Numedahl, Jeanne Gullekson, Billy Connor, Ron Juve.

1870 State Hwy. 9, Decorah, IA 563-382-8406 www.davekelly.com

DRIFTLESS FUN FACT: The St. Wenceslaus Stone Church in Spillville is the oldest Czech Catholic Church in the U.S.

33

While some outdoor activities in the Driftless Region are dictated by season, fishing is literally a year-round activity.

From the first open waters of spring, to the pleasant days of summer, through the crisp air of fall, the season ends...or begins again...as anglers punch holes through the ice.

The Driftless is a region of streams and rivers. The glaciers that scoured basins to create ponds and lakes never reached this area, so most of the water here flows. The speed of that water may be dictated by terrain or time of year. The size can range from a tiny brook that can be stepped across, to the sprawling Mississippi. But that moving water is the perfect path to transport a fisherman from one adventure to the next. Here’s just a peek at the signature species of the Driftless. There are more of course, lingering in the next bend pool, waiting behind a stream-dividing boulder or idling just downstream of a gurgling rapids.

FISHING

Walleye: The Midwest is recognized as a world-class walleye fishery, and the Driftless certainly contributes to that reputation. In addition to incredible spawning runs on the Mississippi and its tributaries, walleyes offer action throughout the open water season and into the ice fishing season on the backwaters.

Bass and pike: Smallmouth are abundant in the Driftless, with strong populations occurring in virtually every Mississippi tributary. Largemouth bass and pike can be found in the expansive backwaters of the Big River, where they thrive near weed beds and other structures.

Panfish: Bluegill, crappie and perch rank high on many Driftless angler’s “favorites” lists. Not only are panfish found in so many different waters, they provide constant, year-round action...not to mention some of the best eating this side of your favorite fish fry.

Trout Run, Decorah, IA

Trout Fishing

For license requirements and more visit: https://www.dnr.state.mn.us/fishing/index.html https://www.iowadnr.gov/fishing https://nationaltroutcenter.org/visit-ntc/driftless-area/

Every year, thousands of devoted anglers make pilgrimages to western trout rivers with storied reputations. Only a handful of those voyagers recognize that they’re driving past some of the best trout water on the planet as their vehicles leave the Driftless Region.

When you combine the waters of northeast Iowa and southeast Minnesota, there are literally hundreds of stream miles for Driftless trouters, and more opportunity than most imagine.

Want to finesse a wild brook trout with genetics

34

found nowhere else in America? Got it. Tangle with a brown you might measure with a yardstick and not a ruler? Check. Take home a limit of gorgeous rainbows that look as amazing as they taste? You bet.

All this fishing can be had on streams so scenic they demand photography, and your only company on most days is a whitetail deer, or a mink, or a peacefully grazing herd of Holsteins.

So sure, take that epic western trouting adventure...then check out the streams of the Driftless. We’ll welcome you back any time.

driftlessjournal.com

Winneshiek County

Decorah, Iowa TUESDAY-SATURDAY, JULY 11-15

TUESDAY, JULY 11 • 6:30 P.M.

Hot Laps 6:30 p.m.; Racing 7:00 p.m.

Winneshiek Raceway Races

WEDNESDAY, JULY 12 • 7:00 P.M.

Barnes Rodeo

THURSDAY, JULY 13 • 7:00 P.M. NTPA Truck & Tractor Pull

FRIDAY, JULY 14 Easton Corbin

FREE PARKING! FREE GATE!

PLUS!

Open 4D Barrel Racing Competition Box Social Ag Olympics Petting Zoo Nick’s Kid Show Local Music Cooking Contests Food Stands Antique Farm Tractor Display Antique Tractor Parade Northland Classic

& MORE! with special guests Chad Brock & Jarrod Turner DON’T FORGET To Be YOUR GRANDSTAND BUTTON! Determined

SATURDAY, JULY 15

EVANS UNITED MIDWAY

www.winneshiekcountyfair.org

Your one-stop solution!

DRIFTLESS FUN FACT: Iowa has more pigs than people. In 2022 there were 23.6 million pigs - more than 7 times the human population.

35

H

Spillville Summer ConCert SerieS - 2023

riverSide park tHe inwood ballroom ludwig Stage 116 bridge St., Spillville, ia 52168 - Camping by reServation (Call 563-380-0148) Saturday, June 10 (7 - 11 PM) Ludwig Stage Free Will Donation

Saturday, July 1st -- Gates Open at 2 PM Admission: $5 per Person/$5 per Vehicle 5K Fun Run, Games, Community Band, Food/Drinks Free Show on Ludwig Stage 4 - 10 PM

Best Firewor Firework ks Display in n Iowa - Dusk Camping by Reservation - $100/Spot, Call 563-380-0148 -- No Kegs -- No Glass ---- No Personal Fireworks -- No Attitudes -Sunday, July 9 (2 - 6 PM) Ludwig Stage Fr ree Will Donation

Riverside Park - Ludwig Stage $20 - Single Day/$30 Two Day Pass (Children 12 & Under Free) Friday - August 4th - Hard Rock & Heavy Metal (6 PM) Friday, August 25 (7:30 - 10:30 PM) Ludwig Stage Fr F ree Will Donation

Saturday - August 5th - Blues & Rock (1 PM)

36

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WINE & SPIRITS SECTION STARBUCKS IN-STORE MEAT DEPARTMENT FLORAL SECTION

LOOK FOR OUR AD AT WWW.HY-VEEDEALS.COM

915 Short St, Decorah, IA

Secluded Country Cabin

close to the Harmony & Lanesboro trails and Root River

RENT OUR CABIN & USE THE BARN EVENT SPACE FREE! • Country cabin features 3 private bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, large kitchen, WiFi, gas fireplace, TV’s, Ping Pong Table and more!

• Sleigh rides & ski slope open in winter (available with cabin rental) • 2 on-site campers available for rent & private fishing pond Amish Valley Cabin in the heart of the Amish community is located 2.5 miles northeast of Canton, MN. Our cabin has a nice secluded setting 1/4 mile off the paved black top road.

Ready to plan your stay or event?

Visit www.amishvalleycabin.com or call 507-259-1454

DRIFTLESS FUN FACT: A record 30” 12 lb. brown trout was caught in Lanesboro, MN in 2011.

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12Family FUN IDEAS

1 Chuck Gipp Decorah Fish Hatchery 2321 Siewers Spring Rd., Decorah, Ia

IN THE DRIFTLESS

Feed the trout, an exciting experience for all ages. Picnic by the waterfall and fish the trout stream.

2 Rock Hunting the Driftless @DecorahRocks & more

The Driftless region is loaded with folks painting, hiding and hunting rocks. The Decorah Rocks in particular keeps the area flush with beautiful creations.

Gastropods, Brachiopods and Maclurites oh my! Just some of the common fossils you can find while on a walk along almost any body of water or hillside around the Driftless.

3 Trails Trails Trails!

Entire Driftless Region

From mountain biking to hiking and even horseback riding, the Driftless region has a wealth of trails to enjoy.

Bike rentals available:

$

Little River General Store,

4 Tube, Canoe & Kayak

Lanesboro, MN • 507-467-2943

Root River, Upper Iowa River & Turkey River

What says family fun more than a relaxing float down scenic Driftless waterways.

Rent tubes, canoes & kayaks here:

$

Upper Iowa Resort & Rental, Dorchester, IA • 563-568-3263

5 Effigy Mounds National Monument 151 Hwy 76, Harpers Ferry , IA

Discover regional cultural phenomenon of prehistoric American Indian burial and ceremonial mounds. Explore the hiking trails and incredible views (pictured) and visitor center, you can even catch a ranger talk or guided tour.

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7 Driftless Area Wetlands Centre 509 Hwy 18, Marquette, IA

Wetland exploration, live animals, geology displays, fossil dig sand pit and much more fun and learning for the whole family.

6 Kid-Friendly Dining & Treats Throughout the Driftless

Restaurants and specialty shops across the region offer kid favorites including pizza, mac-n-cheese, ice cream, baked goods and other yummy treats.

Local favorites include:

WW Homestead Dairy,

8 Camping

Getaway with family and friends

From primitive campsites to modern cabins, camping in the Driftless can suit any camper’s style. Decorah, IA’s, High Point Cabins, pictured here.

$

$

850 Rossville Rd, Waukon, IA

9 Fun & Games

Entertainment centers

No matter the season, the Driftless region has entertainment options for all ages. From bowling and ax throwing to mini golf and go-karts and so much in between.

$

10 International Owl Center 126 E Cedar St., Houston, MN

Plan a visit to the only all-owl education facility in the United States and enjoy live owl demonstrations, learn to identify an owl by their call and explore owl artwork.

$

12 Live Music

Jam out in the Driftless

11 Parks & Playgrounds Throughout the Driftless

Pack the family and head out to one of the 100+ parks in the Driftless. Many offer equipment for all ages and abilities like Spring Grove, MN’s, Trollskogen Park pictured here.

Your family can catch live music weekly, all summer long. There are many no cost options like Farmer’s Markets and Harmony, MN’s, Back Alley Jam Series (pictured here).

DRIFTLESS FUN FACT: The origin of Allamakee is debated, it was either a Native American name, or named for Allen Magee, an early trader.

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SWIMMING POOLS

Monona Family Aquatic Center, Monona, IA

Caledonia Aquatic Center 521 N. Winnebago St. (507) 725-2079 Calmar Pool 601 Pool Park Dr. (563) 380-0240 Chatfield Pool 214 Union St. NE (507) 867-3509

Cresco, Thomson Pool/ Cresco Fitness Center 316 3rd Ave. E. (563) 547-3443

Decorah Municipal Pool 701 College Dr. (563) 382-2055 Edgewood City Pool 405 W. Madison St. (563) 928-6628

Elkader Municipal Pool 600 High St. SE (563) 245-1510

Guttenberg Municipal Pool 519 N. 3rd St (563) 252-1109 Hokah (natural pool) 20 Como St. (507) 894-4990

Houston/Money Creek Haven (natural pool) 18502 County 26 (507) 896-3544

La Crescent Aquatic Center 608 S. 7th St. (507) 895-8712 40

Lansing Pool 490 Bench St. (563) 538-4343

Lime Springs Municipal Pool 201 Center St. (563) 566-2606

Monona Family Aquatic Park 601 W. Davis St. (563) 539-4516

Oelwein Family Aquatic Center 400 4th St. NE (319) 238-8160 Postville Pool 400 Wilson St. (563) 864-7690

Preston Pool 117 Park St. (507) 765-5408

Rushford Aquatic Center 209 Watt St. (507) 864-2983

Spring Grove Swim Center 600 Maple Dr. (507) 498-7946 Spring Valley Pool 1225 Broadway Ave. (507) 346-7367

Waukon Aquatic Center 1013 Rossville Rd. (563) 568-2514

West Union Aquatic Center North Pine St. (563) 422-5571

SPLASHPADS

Splash Park, New Albin, IA

Elma Splash Pad Located at Elma City Park (641) 393-2543

Harmony Splash Pad Trail Head Park, 2nd Ave NW & 4th Street NW

Harpers Ferry Splash Pad Located next to the Community Center at 238 N 4th St.

Lansing’s “The Big Splash” Located at South Front Street playground area (563) 538-4757 New Albin Splash Park Located near tennis court (563) 544-4214

driftlessjournal.com

BUY TICKETS NOW!

DRIFTLESS FUN FACT: Iowa is one of 27 US states that are landlocked.

Waterloo, Iowa thelostisland.com

41

3220 US Hwy 52 Decorah IA 319-939-3039 www.shopmarket52.com

Bringing a smile to your space!

New home decor and antiques For current open dates please check our website or Facebook page.

Get Social With Us!

The

Roundhouse Retreat

Located at 2884 Bluffton Road, Decorah, IA Our unique geodesic guesthouse is located 4 miles northwest of Decorah on seven acres of woods. It is ideal for a weekend getaway or any family gathering.

• 4 bedrooms & a large bedroom loft • Sleeps 20 people • Large living/dining area & a fully equipped kitchen • Two full bathrooms • Large deck area, with a patio table and chairs and a large gas grill Explore the woods on our walking trails.

Contact Pat Carey, 903 Vernon St. Decorah, IA

563-380-5597 • capcarey@gmail.com www.theroundhouseretreat.com 42

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HESPER-MABEL 71st Annual Celebration

STEAM ENGINE DAYS es Activiti l l for a ages!

Events sponsored by Mabel Business Association

9 CABINS • GENERAL STORE • CAMPGROUND

DRIFTLESS FUN FACT: Two famous American giants hail from Minnesota, the lumberjack Paul Bunyan and the Jolly Green Giant.

43

HARMON Min Just 30 minutes from Decorah, this full-service community offers a variety of dining options, unique antiques, furniture and gift shops and exciting recreational opportunities.

Explore Niagara Cave, tour the Amish countryside and pedal your way through 60 miles of paved bike trail!

Harmony also offers a wide array of service businesses ready to meet your every need.

ExploreHarmonyMinnesota chamber@exploreharmony.com exploreharmonymn

44

W hile you’re here...

CHECK OUT THE VISITOR CENTER

at 15 2nd St NW, Harmony or call 877-886-2469

exploreharmon

driftlessjournal.com

2023 NY nnesota EVENTS

ny.com

June 15: Back Alley Jam Series featuring “Avey Grouws” Sponsored by Harmony Arts Board

July 4: 4th of July Celebration July 20: Back Alley Jam Series featuring “The Paperclips” Aug. 1: Customer Appreciation Aug. 7: Chamber Golf Tournament Aug.17: Back Alley Jam Series featuring “LaBarge” Sept. 15-16: 60-Mile Garage Sale Sept. 23: Fall for Harmony October: Monster Bash Oct 13-14, 20-22, 27-29 & Oct 31 Oct. 28: Haunted Harmony Nov. 25: Small Business Saturday Dec. 2: Breakfast with Santa/ Community Tree Lighting Ceremony Dec. 13: Holidays in Harmony

DRIFTLESS FUN FACT: Many caves in the Driftless are explorable, with stalactites and stalagmites formed over centuries.

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Nationally recognized as one of the Top Ten Caves in the United States!

On our 1-hour guided tour…

• Hike one mile underground to depths of 200 ft.

• Discover fossils ≈ 450 million years old • See cave formations both delicate and massive • Temperature is 48° F (9° C) • Walking shoes recommended

Also available…

Miniature Golf Concessions Gemstone Mining Picnic Grounds Unique Gifts

46

Reserve tickets online at niagaracave.com 507-886-6606

driftlessjournal.com

OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK 226 E. Main St. Caledonia, MN 507-725-3313 elsiescaledoniamn.com

BREAKFAST, LUNCH, DINNER

& cocktails

SUMMER

ON THE PATIO

SPECIAL EVENTS & CATERING

outdoor bar & stage pet-friendly

VINTAGE VIBES, GIFTS & APPAREL 113 E. Grove St., Caledonia, MN

NOW OPEN! DRIFTLESS FUN FACT: Seed Saver’s Exchange, near Decorah houses the nation’s largest nongovernmental seed bank of its kind.

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ROOT RIVER

Root River between Peterson and Rushford, MN

Southeast Minnesota’s Root River is an 80-mile long tributary of the Mississippi River that offers canoers and kayakers a unique and scenic look at the Driftless Area.

Formed by the junction of the North Branch and Middle Fork near Chatfield, the Root flows southeast toward the scenic town of Lanesboro, where it is joined by the South Fork. In these upper reaches the Root is smaller and quicker, containing colder water that flows past towering bluffs. The area is known for good fishing for smallmouth bass and trout.

Still fairly small and intimate, the Root flows east and is joined by yet another tributary,

the South Branch, which flows from Mystery Cave and joins the Root River above the town of Whalan.

The river continues past bluffs and outcrops until it hits Rushford, where the landscape begins to change. The valley broadens considerably and the river straightens out from that point. Canoers and kayakers then float through pasture land and areas covered with cottonwood and maple trees, with wooded bluffs in the distance.

The Root ends its 80-mile journey at its confluence with the Mississippi River near the town of Hokah.

From Chatfield to the Mississippi River, the Root River

falls 310 feet for an average drop of 3.4 feet per mile. The river levels typically reach a peak in mid-March and again in June. You’ll find fishing and camping opportunities along the Root River, as well as a popular paved bike trail, The Root River State Trail System (www. rootrivertrail.org), which parallels the waterway for 35 miles between the towns of Fountain and Houston.

Drifting down the Root River, or biking the trail, provides a fascinating glimpse at not only natural beauty, but the historical sights, services and hospitality at each of the unique small towns along the way.

EXPERIENCE OWLS

UP CLOSE AND PERSONAL

Houston, Minnesota 507-896-OWLS (6957) InternationalOwlCenter.org

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­

A Guest Hus Motel

Just off the Root River Trail

Whalan Depot

Follow the trail 4 miles from Lanesboro through woods & open countryside

World Famous Seasonal Pie Shoppe

register now at:

OR

28097 Goodview Drive, Lanesboro, MN 55949

DRIFTLESS FUN FACT: Minnesota’s Driftless Area begins at Fort Snelling, heading south.

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PERFORMING ARTS Chatfield

Wits’ End Theatre 405 Main St. S. www.witsendtheatre.org

Cresco

Cresco Theatre & Opera House

115 Second Ave. W. www.crescotheatreoperahouse.com

History Alive! Pop-up Plays, Lanesboro, MN

Decorah

New Minowa Players 906 S Mill St. www.newminowaplayers.org • “The Hunchback of Notre Dame,” June 22-25

Elkader

Elkader Opera House 207 N. Main St. elkaderoperahouse.com • “The Claw” Children’s Musical, June 16 • “Peter Pan,” Oct. 6-8, 12-15 • “A Classic Christmas Fantasy,” Dec. 10

LaCrosse

The Muse Theatre 1353 Avon St. “The Muse Theatre” on Facebook

La Crosse Community Theater 428 Front St. S. • “5 Lesbians Eating a Quiche,” April 21-30 • “RENT,” May 5-21 • “Junie B’s Essential Survival Guide to School,” youth musical, May 13 “Dog Sees God: Confessions of a Teenage Blockhead,” June 2-11 50

• “Honk, Jr.” youth musical, June 16-18 • Disney’s “The Aristocats Kids,” June 23-24 • “Legally Blonde: The Musical,” July 28-Aug. 20 • Roald Dahl’s “Matilda the Musical, Jr.” Aug. 18-19

La Crescent

Appleseed Theatre 340 Skunk Hollow Rd. www.appleseedtheatre.org

Lanesboro

St. Mane Theatre 206 Parkway Ave. N. lanesborocommunitytheater. blogspot.com

Commonweal Theatre Company 208 Parkway Ave. N. commonwealtheatre.org • “Bernhardt/Hamlet,” March 25-June24 • “Death Trap,” May 6-Aug. 9 • “Women in Jeopardy!” July 1-Oct.21 • “Dr. Jekyll & Mr. Hyde,” Aug. 26-Oct. 29 • “She Loves Me,” Nov. 4-Dec. 23

History Alive! Pop Up Play 200 Parkway Ave S. • Historical pop-up play performances, May 27-29

Oelwein

Williams Center for the Arts 317 8th Ave. SE. www.williamscenterforthearts. com

Rushford

Rushford Area Society of the Arts 1000 Pine Meadows Lane, Rushford-Peterson School Auditorium • “Seussical: The Musical,” third weekend in July • “Pinocchio,” Prairie Fire Children’s Theatre, third weekend in October

Spring Grove

Ye Olde Opera House 155 W. Main St. “The Wizard of Oz,” July 13-16 www.yeoldeoperahouse.org

Spring Valley

Brave Community Theatre 200 S. Broadway Ave. sites.google.com/site/ bravecommunityspringvalley

driftlessjournal.com

HISTORIC FORESTVILLE

Mystery Cave, Preston, MN

Home to natural wonders above and below ground, Forestville State Park has something for everyone. Fish the trout streams or enjoy an afternoon of birdwatching – available to all visitors to the 3,000+ acre park.

Featuring miles of trails, enjoy camping, get active with hiking, horseback and cross-country trails, enjoy cold water streams and view unique wildlife and birds. Forestville State Park offers cozy cabins and camping

spaces, with all major amenities open from May 27 through September 3, 2023. Even in winter, this is truly a wonderland with snowmobiling trails, skiing, snowshoeing and hiking available.

Mystery Cave, located five miles from the park, remains a crisp 48°F with underground pools, beautiful cave landscapes and over 13 miles of passages. For more information call Main Park at 507352-5111, or Mystery Cave at 507-937-3251.

Where wilderness meets luxury…

Located just outside of historic Lanesboro, Minnesota, Bluff Country Retreat offers a cozy and private atmosphere for you and your group to relax and rejuvenate!

651-214-3916

bluffcountryretreat.com 26557 Evening Drive, Lanesboro, MN

3 bedrooms 12 twin beds 4 full bathrooms 2 spacious living areas Dining space Bar area Fully-stocked kitchen Fire pit Walking trails

Bunk House

available as add-on to main house or for couples getaways

HISTORIC

B&B’s Fremont Store

LOCALLY OWNED SINCE 1856

HISTORIC GENERAL STORE OFFERING:

B&B'S FREMONT STORE

• LOCAL MEAT, CHEESE & PRODUCE • HANDMADE GOODS & MUCH MORE! Visit us in rural Winona County!

B&B's Fremont Store Follow us to stay up to date!

www.bandbfremontstore.com Located just south

of Interstate 90 29476 Co. Rd. 29, Utica, MN 55979 • 507-523-1008

Wed-Sat 8AM-5PM and Sun 8AM-4PM

Local food, brews, bourbons & wines Shareable Plates Boards • Desserts Flights • Pairings Many pairing d & boar ! s n io t op

Soups • Salads *GF options available

Check our website for upcoming events & classes!

Located in beautiful bluff country

102 Coffee Street W., Lanesboro, MN • 507-475-8804

DRIFTLESS FUN FACT: Castalia, Iowa, was first called Rattletrap, under this name it consisted of one solitary log house.

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DRIFTLESS BREW TOURS ARE A DRAW A new kind of attraction for the Driftless area are brewery tours. A growing number of craft beer breweries are popping up, offering a refreshing alternative to widely-commercial brands for the most popular alcoholic beverage consumed in the U.S. The beer tourism industry has evolved from the larger culinary and beverage tourism category in which people began planning travels based around experiencing food and drink of different geographies. Informally, vacations

centric to the theme of enjoying beer have been dubbed “beercations.”

Last season, the Driftless Multimedia Bites and Brews highlighted many of the local breweries, wineries and distilleries in the region, each offering quality beverages by people who care about their craft.

This season, sip and savor the flavors of the Driftless on a brew tour of your own. Look for advertisements from local wineries, breweries and distilleries in this guide.

Casa de outba

1,000 sq ft Fully furnished 2 b utbaCk wrangler room Morning Ridge Cabin with full kitchen & q ft 12’x20’ Bunkhouse Brand new cabin with Miles of well-groomed trails master bedroom, loft & ride or walk with queentobed & full 2 bedroom Nestle kitchen & bath full kitchen & bath en & bath Daily trail use is available for Casa de outbaCk those who wrangler room by or Morning Ridge Cabin are close stled in the1,000 beautiful bluffs of Southeastern Minnesota sq ft 12’x20’ Bunkhouse Brand new cabin with traveling through the area master bedroom, loft & with queen bed & full Fully furnished 2 bedroom kitchen & bath

with full kitchen & bath

full kitchen & bath

Casa de outbaCk wrangler room Morning Ridge Cabin Country Wedding venue for 1,000 sq ft bluffs of Southeastern 12’x20’ Bunkhouse Brand new cabin with Nestled inparties, the beautiful Minnesota reunions, receptions master bedroom, loft & with queen bed & full Fully furnished 2 bedroom kitchen & bath full kitchen & bath with full kitchen& & bath or more!

Miles of well-groomed trails

s

to ride or walk

Daily trail use is available for r those who are close by or traveling through the area

s

,

l

Country Wedding venue for parties, reunions, receptions & more!

300’x147’ outdoor arena Limited stalls with turnouts, Pens & Individual Pastures 2,500 acres of pristine Trail Riding 40 miles of private & State Trails Connected to 100 miles of State Snowmobile Trails

overnigHt CamPing

Horse Trails, Hiking Trails, Snowmobile Trails

With electrical hookups

EXPERIENCE OF THE WEST ngOUTDOOR

ups

Nestled in the beautiful bluffs of Southeastern Minnesota

300’x147’ outdoor arena

Limited stalls with turnouts, Pens & Individual Pastures 2,500 acres of pristine Trail Casa de outbaCk 1,000 sq ft Riding Fully furnished 2 bedroom

m

Nestled in the beautiful bluffs of Southeastern

Country Wedding venue for

parties, reunions,miles receptions of Connected to 100 & more!

State Snowmobile 300’x147’ outdoorTrails arena overnigHt CamPing

Primitive CamPing overnigHt CamPing

Primitive CamPing Cabins rv HookuPs Primitive CamPing 40 miles of private & State bunkHouses Cabins Trails OUTDOORConnected EXPERIENCE to 100 miles of State Snowmobile Trails bunkHouses rv HookuPs overnigHt CamPing OF THE WEST

With electrical hookups

Limited stalls with turnouts, Pens & Individual Pastures

Horse Trails,2,500 Hiking Trails, acres of pristine Trail SnowmobileRiding Trails

Horse Trails, Hiking Trails, Snowmobile Trails

OUTDOOR EXPERIENCE OF THE WEST

52

with full kitchen & bath

Miles of well-groomed trails

to ride or walk 40 miles of private & State Daily trail use is available for those who are close by or Trails traveling through the area

M

wrangler room 12’x20’ Bunkhouse with queen bed & full kitchen & bath

rv HookuPs With electrical hookups

With electrical hookups

Cabins bunkHouses

driftlessjournal.com

Welcome to

Craft beer & specialty cocktails, wine, Bloody Marys, flatbreads & wings

Your Lanesboro R&R Destination

ON THE ROOT RIVER TRAIL in downtown Lanesboro

MODERN ROOMS LOCKED INDOOR BIKE STORAGE STRONG WIFI BREAKFAST PASTRY GOOD COFFEE OUTDOOR SEATING BBQ & FIREPITS RENTALS SUITES WITH A KITCHENETTE, LIVING ROOM & DECK 106 Parkway Ave S., Lanesboro, MN • 507-273-4100

RootRiverInn.com

Book the

HCP Looroft’s, Lanesb newest n downtow rental!

Tuesday Trivia Thursday Open Mic Live Music Every Weekend

Two decks overlooking the Root River

(507) 467-2782 | highcourtpub.com 109 Parkway Ave. N, Lanesboro, MN

Family-friendly campground FIND US NEAR THE ROOT RIVER AND BIKE TRAIL

TENT SITES RV/CAMPER SITES 5ROOM ONSITE LODGE

CANOE, TUBE, BICYCLE & KAYAK RENTALS 35455 State Hwy. 16, Lanesboro, MN • 507-476-2598 • www.eagle-cliff.com DRIFTLESS FUN FACT: A person can step inside a large-scale eagle’s nest replica on the Turkey River Recreational Trail in Fayette County Iowa. 53

32+ flavors

Try them all!

• Daily Lunch Specials • Summer Weekend Pizza Buffet • House Made Pizzas • Locally Sourced burgers

Full Menu | Full Bar Open | 7-9a for breakfast everyday 11-8 Sunday - Thursday 11-9 Friday - Saturday Open 1 hr later through summer!

follow us

RushfordCreamery

407 S. Mill Street | Rushford, MN 55971 507.864.7214 | rushfordcreamery.com

Locally Sourced Makes it Taste Better!

beer, bowling food + fun beer | cocktails | local brews full menu | daily specials | ice cream happy hour weekdays 3-6 pm friday 2 for 1 drinks 6-8 pm

LIVE IVE MUSIC Follow us on social media & RushfordNordicLanes.com to see what‘s happening at the lanes!

403 S. Mill Street | Rushford, MN 55971 507.864.7799 | rushfordnordiclanes.com

open 10a weekends, 11a weekdays

RushfordNordicLanes

havin' a good time at the lanes!

54

driftlessjournal.com

Visit theVALLEY

Rushford Peterson Valley, a hidden gem in Southeast Minnesota’s Driftless Area, with space to breathe and explore

SCHEDULE OF EVENTS APRIL

Bluff Country Studio Art Tour

MAY

SEMBA Bluegrass Festival

JUNE

Gammel Dag Fest, Peterson

JULY

Rushford Days

JULY

Sunday Music Series, Peterson Bandstand

AUG

Bluff Land Triathlon

AUG

Rushford Music Series

AUG

SEMBA Bluegrass Festival

SEPT

60-Mile Garage Sale

OCT

Arts & Crafts Fair

DEC

Christmas in Peterson Find us online for a full list of activies and events

www.rushfordpetersonvalley.com

THINGS TO DO Root River Bike Trail: 60 miles of paved trail Bluff Country Scenic Byway Root River fishing, tubing and canoeing

PLACES TO SHOP From basic necessities to products unique to the Rushford Peterson Valley

PLACES TO STAY Lodging at inns, campgrounds, vacation rentals

PLACES TO EAT Many local favorites

PLAN YOUR

DAY TRIP!

Find day trip itinerary ideas on our website

DRIFTLESS FUN FACT: Rushford, MN was named for nearby Rush Creek in 1954.

55

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OPEN YEAR-ROUND

BAREFOOT PARK

The folks in Peterson, Minn., are bringing in a bit of European excitement with their creation of a Barefoot Barefoot Park, Peterson, MN Park. Here, an adjacent trail right off the biking path and playground equipment leads you through a sensory experience meant to be felt through the feet. Popular in Europe, Barefoot Parks offer many health benefits, and allow one to more closely connect with nature and use muscles not normally activated when shod

with shoes.

Peterson, Minn., is making the best use of avail able space. Connecting the biking path and circling the baseball field, this park will offer a course of various textures, treads, heights and materials, sure to

give visitors an experience they won’t soon forget.

Shuck the shoes and get closer to nature in Peterson,

Minn.

FOUR BEDROOMS ◆ FULL KITCHEN 2.5 BATHS WITH SPA SHOWERS WET BAR ◆ FIREPLACE ◆ DECK BREAKFAST NOOK W/ESPRESSO MACHINE CABLE & INTERNET

Built by Spring Valley Home Federal Bank founder John Osterud in 1920, the Broadway Guest House provides ample space for gathering with family and friends, special occasions, or spending a quiet weekend away from home.

Our custom guest house is located just off US Hwy 63, two blocks from downtown Spring Valley on historic Broadway.

520 North Broadway Spring Valley, MN

507-251-8875 broadwayguesthouse.net DRIFTLESS FUN FACT: Riders flock to Spring Valley, Minn. annually for the 100 mile gravel bike race, the SV100.

57

Harmony Golf Club, Harmony, MN

GOLF COURSES Big Rock Country Club

9684 146th St., Fayette, IA (563) 425-3687 Chosen Valley Golf Club

1801 Main St. S, Chatfield, MN (507) 867-4305 Cresco Country Club

22005 115th St., Cresco, IA (563) 547-2374 Elkader Golf and Country Club

24361 Gunder Rd., Elkader, IA (563) 245-2230 Ferndale Golf Course

23239 State Hwy. 16, Rushford, MN (507) 864-7626

Gator Greens Mini Golf

439 Half St., Whalan (507) 251-5101

Green Valley Getaway

78 16th Ave. NW, Waukon, IA (563) 568-4866 Guttenberg Golf Course

9-HOLE GOLF COURSE

in southeast Minnesota

Preston Golf & Country Club

535 4th St. NE, Harmony, MN (507) 886-5622

Riceville Country Club

3249 Golf Course Ln., Jackson Junction, IA (563) 776-9181

Riverview Greens Golf & Banquet Center

Harmony Golf Club

Jackson Heights Golf Course

1000 Parkway Ave. S, Lanesboro, MN (507) 467-3742

Ma Cal Grove Country Club

15939 State 76, Caledonia, MN (507) 725-2733 HARMONY

GOLF CLUB CARTS AVAILABLE BANQUET & MEETING SPACE

CONTACT US

­

58

24749 Canoe Rd., Elgin, IA (563) 423-7396

28126 US-52, Guttenberg, IA (563) 252-1423

Lanesboro Golf Club

Pleasant Valley Sports Club & Golf Course

Maple Heights Country Club

200 Wood St., Elma, IA (641) 393-2120 New Hampton Golf & Country Club

2074 Panora Ave., New Hampton, IA (641) 394-4340 River Bend Golf Course at Old Barn Resort

24461 Heron Rd., Preston, MN (507) 467-2512

Oneota Golf & Country Club

1714 Golf Rd., Decorah, IA (563) 382-4407 Pine Creek Golf Course

3815 N. Pine Creek Rd., La Crescent, MN (507) 895-2410

Hwy 16 West, Preston, MN (507) 765-4485

402 W. Main St., Riceville, IA (641) 985-2447 1800 Clubhouse Dr. NE, Stewartville, MN (507) 533-9393

Silver Springs Golf and Country Club

1392 Co. Rd. 42, Ossian, IA (563) 532-8904 Silvercrest Country Club

2772 College Dr., Decorah, IA (563) 382-5296 South Winn Country Club

2585 175th St., Calmar, IA (563) 562-3191 Tri City Golf Course

16739 Diplomat Rd., Luana, IA (563) 539-4435 Valley High Golf Club

9203 T-243, Houston, MN (507) 894-4444

Waukon Golf & Country Club

308 1st Street SE, Waukon, IA (563) 568-9939 Woods Edge Golf Course

504 W. Union St., Edgewood, IA (563) 928-6668

driftlessjournal.com

DRIFTLESS FUN FACT: Cyrus Wykoff, area railroad founder, established Wykoff, Minn., in 1881.

59

Located in beautiful downtown La Crosse, WI

Tacos ◆ noodles + more!

MEXICAN FUSION FUN TWIST ON CLASSIC DISHES FULL BAR CRAFT COCKTAILS SPANISH WINES BEER ◆

Open Mon-Sat 11AM-10PM

◆

www.taqueriapatoazul.com 127 4th St. S., La Crosse, WI 608-519-3036 ◆

Visit our sister restaurant

Bleu Duck Kitchen & Oyster Bar Rochester, MN www.bleuduckkitchen.com

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DRIFTLESS FUN FACT: Minnesota has some 65 towns with the word “lake” in their names.

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Visit southeastern Minnesota’s most historic, fully-restored building

163 W. Main Street, Spring Grove, MN 507-498-5070 Open Monday-Saturday 10AM-5PM

www.giantsoftheearth.org

WELCOME CENTER IMMIGRANT HALL

Gathering space filled with the final American commissions by Norwegian painter Sigmund Aarseth Equipped with all your A/V needs for rentals of all kinds

ENGER MEMORIAL GARDEN Two-level outdoor deck and sculpture garden

HISTORY AND CULTURE

Two upper floors of local history and culture exhibits

FILMING STUDIO

Our staff regularly record and preserve living history and local events. Let us capture your family stories as a legacy for future generations.

SCANDINAVIAN GIFT SHOP Nordic gifts and local creations

More info an

d registration FOLK ARTS CLASSES availa on our web ble site ANNUAL NORWEGIAN RIDGE LANGUAGE & CULTURE CAMP

Call to rent our space or book a tour Facility equipped with kitchen and elevator

Scan

for

CULTURAL PROGRAMS, EVENTS + GENEALOGICAL ASSISTANCE

Renovated Spring 2021 500 Front St. S., La Crosse, WI • 608-782-1000 • www.marriott.com/lsecy 62

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Saxon Hall is your destination for the best pizza around.

702 MAIN STREET, BROWNSVILLE, MN 55919 507-482-4255 saxonhallpizza.com

ROOM AND BEER GARDEN AVAILABLE FOR RENT WE DO NOT ACCEPT CREDIT CARDS (ATM is available)

You may come as a stranger, but will leave as a friend!

Our locations

STONEY CREEK HOTEL LA CROSSE 3060 S KINNEY COULEE RD, ONALASKA, WI 54650 (608) 781-3060

DRIFTLESS FUN FACT: Spring Grove Soda Pop Rhu-berry flavor was created for the Lanesboro Rhubarb Festival.

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DRIFTLESS AREA VISITORS CENTER 1944 Columbus Road, Lansing, IA Let your imagination flow at Lansing’s Driftless Area Education & Visitors Center.

The waters of Village Creek converge with the Mississippi nearby. Imagine years ago, a place bustling with clanking tools and shouts of fishers hauling in the day’s catch; the low, mournful sound of the steamboat whistle echoing through the steep bluffs and along the sacred, earthen mounds. Towering glaciers passed around this very spot - scraping and scouring all but this land, a breathtaking region known as the Driftless Area.

Driftless Area Visitors Center, Lansing, IA Visitors can explore the cultural, recreational, natural and historical significance of the Driftless Area through interpretive and dimensional exhibits and displays at the three-level center.

The 10,000 sq. ft. building is nestled beneath limestone bluffs along the Mississippi,

and showcases geology, limnology, archaeology, wildlife, river town industries/economies, American Indian cultures and more.

The center is open year round and offers a meeting and office space for public use, classroom and group learning areas, observation decks and more.

DRIFTLESS AREA WETLANDS CENTRE 509 US-18, Marquette, IA

Nestled in the bluffs of northeast Iowa, the Driftless Area Wetlands Centre provides fun and interactive learning experiences through nature exploration and discovery. At the family-friendly center, learn to identify flowers, frogs, fish and even take a photo with a replica bald eagle nest.

Also featured are guided wetland exploration, duck and bird displays, geology displays, live animals, accessible trails, wetlands observation deck, touch and feel mammal mounts, a gift shop and more.

Children can check out the new nature nook, visit the nature play trail or the fossil dig 64

Driftless Area Wetlands Centre, Marquette, IA sand pit.

Staff are on hand to assist and necessary equipment is provided.

Special events at the center include a Kid’s Trout Fishing Clinic, date TBD; Dino Day, July 30; and HawkWatch in October.

The center is also host to the Marquette Farmers Market Fridays from 4-7 p.m. Memorial Day through Oct. 1.

For more information, visit www.driftlessareawetlandcentre.com or find the center on Facebook.

driftlessjournal.com

Always a reason to visit, even better reasons to stay!

✤ ✤

✤

✤

DRIFTLESS FUN FACT: William Garrison named Lansing, Iowa, after his former home of Lansing, Michigan.

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HUNTING

Early morning whitetail deer, Decorah, IA

The Driftless Area is a certified paradise for any outdoor lover, but even more so if you’re a hunter. In fact, fall is so packed with opportunity that it can be a challenge to manage the boundless possibilities with limited free time. While there’s an abundance of game in the Driftless, here’s a look at the most popular species.

Whitetail deer: Perhaps the most emblematic and certainly the region’s most popular game animal, Driftless whitetails are prized for their tasty venison and trophy antlers. Seasons are liberal and offer diverse opportunity; from the early-fall archery openers, to the popular firearms hunt, and ending with primitive weapons seasons that last until early winter.

Wild turkey: When wild turkey flocks were reintroduced to Iowa and Minnesota decades ago, state game managers looked no further for an ideal

Shed Hunting

Looking for an outdoor activity to occupy that netherworld between true winter and bonafide spring?

Try hunting for shed antlers, one of nature’s most beautiful sculptures.

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place than the Driftless, where hardwood forests mixed with rich farmland to create the perfect habitat. While the raucous gobbling of toms makes the spring hunt the most popular, fall seasons are offered in both states and are the perfect opportunity to bag a wild turkey for Thanksgiving.

Waterfowl: The sprawling main channel and diverse backwaters of the Mississippi River create some of the best duck and goose hunting on the continent.

Factor in the rivers, streams, ponds and ag fields - all found in abundance in the Driftless and the region becomes a waterfowler’s Mecca.

Ringneck pheasant: Though not present in numbers found in the prairie states, pheasants can be found throughout the Driftless; whether on the region’s abundant public lands, or on farms with suitable habitat. Seasons start in October

Here are some tips • Most will be found near feeding or bedding areas.

• Search south-facing slopes, they are preferred by deer about to drop their antlers.

• Walk slowly and look down.

• “Grid-search” areas.

and last through the New Year, creating ample opportunity to chase the gaudy, magnificent rooster.

Small game: While the more glamorous species grab the attention of sportsmen, serious hunters recognize that the hardwood forests and abundant farmland in the Driftless create ideal hunting for squirrels and rabbits.

Even better, seasons start in early fall and last well into winter and offer excellent opportunities for young hunters eager to learn the sport.

The takeaway: Perhaps the most amazing asset for a hunter in the Driftless Area is the abundance of public hunting opportunities. For a complete list of state, county and federal public lands open to hunting, as well as updated information on seasons and license requirements, visit iowadnr.gov or dnr.state.mn.us.

• Wait for clouds. Bright sun can actually make antlers harder to spot.

• Check the jumps: fence lines, creek crossings or trails across a steep ditch.

• Get the green light: Always ask permission before entering any private property.

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OPEN LATE APRIL-OCTOBER

ANNUALS

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Located in the beautiful bluffs of the Mississippi River Valley

­

DRIFTLESS FUN FACT: The Iowa portion of the Upper Iowa River Watershed has 6,649 known sinkholes.

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Woods to rivers, hills to plains

Mississippi Backwater

Year-round adventures in beautiful Northeast Iowa

Allamakee County Conservation hosts Backwater Paddle events throughout the summer.

PARKS TRAILS WATER ■

■

DRIFTLESS AREA EDUCATION & VISITOR CENTER Lansing, Iowa M-F 8-4:30; Weekends 12-4 563-538-0400

Follow us for events

www.allamakeecountyconservation.org

Empty Nest Winery PRODUCING SMALL-BATCH HANDCRAFTED WINES, SELTZERS & CIDERS

FAMILY-OWNED & OPERATED INSIDE & OUTSIDE SEATING AVAILABLE

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Fridays 4-9 pm • Saturdays 10-5 pm • Sundays 1-5 pm

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1352 Apple Rd., Waukon, IA 52172 • 563-568-2758 emptynestwinery.com • @drinkemptynestwine 68

Free popcorn, local artisan cheeses and sausage available

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Where Main Street Meets the Mississippi

Discover our historic downtown district OPEN DAYLIGHT HOURS ONLY

PAINT CREEK Bulk Store + Bakery

1338 Paint Creek Drive, Waterville, IA • 563-535-7701

Bulk

*PUBLIC PHONE, LEAVE MESSAGE*

akery

B SPICES + MIXES BREADS HEALING PRODUCTS ROLLS + BUNS COOKIES + PIES MEATS + CHEESES

Culture and baked goods from the old country

DRIFTLESS FUN FACT: Monona (originally Mononah) is the only town in Clayton County, Iowa with a Native American name.

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Liquor, Beer & Wine scan

Waukon City Park Picnic shelters Walking trails Camping

64 Acr

OF OPEN PAes RK

TO VIEW OUR FEATURED PRODUCTS

STATE MINIMUM ON ALL CIGARETTES VAPE PENS AVAILABLE AT GREAT PRICES

Indian Springs Pond Hideaway Park wooden playground Swimming pool • Disc golf Volleyball • Horseshoes • Softball

Shops, Lodging & restaurants Wellness Center Golf & bowling Historical sites

cityofwaukon.com 563-568-3491 WaukonIowa

AT GREEN VALLEY GETAWAY

618 Rossville Rd, Waukon, IA (563) 568-2153

OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK! Mon-Thur 7:15-7; Fri-Sat 7:15-9; Sun 9:30-4

OH MY!

Made from scratch pizza, sandwiches & entrees

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enjoy our classic Moscow Mule in the great outdoors!

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78 16th Ave NW, Waukon 563-568-4866 Hours: Tues-Thurs 4 to Close; Fri-Sun 11 am to 10 pm

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SCAN FOR

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DRIFTLESS FUN FACT: The Great River Road Scenic Byway was named the prettiest drive in the nation by the Huffington Post.

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WALDEN POND: ROY & GENEVIEVE SCHULTZ MEMORIAL OUTDOOR DISCOVERY AREA

A new outdoor space has been dedicated in Winneshiek County, and it promises to create outdoor recreation opportunities well into the future.

The new “Walden Pond: Roy and Genevieve Schultz Memorial Outdoor Discovery Area” near Castalia was dedicated in 2022.

The Schultz family, James (Jim) and Sharon, and their daughters Wendy Schultz and Rebecca and husband Michael Perez, have donated their family property in rural Castalia to the Winneshiek County Conservation Board.

Winneshiek County Conservation will now operate the 133-acre site, which was dedicated as “Walden Pond: Roy and Genevieve Schultz Memorial Outdoor Discovery Area”. It includes a five-acre pond, many miles of hiking trails, a walnut, oak and maple woodland area, restrooms and an enclosed picnic shelter for classroom space.

To honor the donor’s wishes, Walden Pond will be a special-use area by reservation only. Available for school field trips, nature camps, public programs, group rentals, etc.

As the property continues operation as a reservation-only space, it will be closed to public hunting.

The official address for Walden Pond is 1426 130th Ave., Castalia, IA 52133.

The center is situated about 15 miles from Decorah in the southeast section of Winneshiek County.

For more information, contact Winneshiek County Conservation online at conservation@winneshiekwild.com; or call 563-534-7145.

INDEPENDENCE DAY CELEBRATIONS Bluffton

Fireworks July 1 at dusk

Eitzen

Eitzen Family Fun Fest, Fireworks July 4 at dusk

Guttenberg

Stars & Stripes Celebration, Fireworks July 1

Harmony

4th of July Celebration, Fireworks July 4 at dusk

Lansing

Fireworks July 4 at 10 p.m.

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Spillville, IA, Independence Day Celebration

McGregor-Marquette

Independence Day Parade, Fireworks July 1

Spillville

Independence Day Celebration, July 1

Monona

July 4 at dusk

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Forest Mills

Destination Dr ift

Featured Locleass tion

Batiks and Wildlife are our Specialty!

Jalapeños

AUTHENTIC MEXICAN CUISINE

FOOD + DRINK SPECIALS

APPETIZERS + DESSERTS FAMILY BOX MEALS Tue-Thur 11am-8pm

Fri-Sat 11am-9:30pm

Sun 11am-5pm

Suhdron Fabrics driftless 3 floors of beautiful fabrics & notions!

142 S. Lawler St., Postville, IA

563-863-3553

­

DRIFTLESS FUN FACT: The first settlement on the present site of Postville was made by Mr. Joel Post and his wife, Zeruiah.

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SPECIALTY SANDWICHES & BURGERS FISH TACOS PIZZA LOCAL CRAFT BEERS HOMEMADE CHEESECAKES SALADS APPS + WINGS

CONNECT WITH US!

­

CABIN RENTALS CAMP SITES CAVE TOURS

Little Switzerland Inn Full breakfast Suite options Steps away from McGregor’s many antique shops

126 Main St., McGregor, IA 563-873-2057 www.littleswitzerlandinn.com

Historic inn located just across from the Mississippi River

re!

Sold he

­

OPEN DAILY MAY-OCTOBER

cave tour of day begins at 5pm** Reserve online**Last at: www.spookcave.com

email: spookcave@spookcave.com

phone: 563-539-4114

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HOMEMADE PIE ASHBY’S ICE CREAM OLD FASHIONED CANDIES SALT WATER TAFFY

Open daily! Sadie’s 12:30-5PM

126 Main St. McGregor, IA 563-873-2057

Sweet Shop McGregor, IA

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WISCONSIN

www.prairieduchien.org

LET THE

BEGIN NATURAL SCENIC BEAUTY ALONG THE MISSISSIPPI RIVER NATIONAL PARKS | WINERIES | HIKING | KAYAKING | BIKING FISHING | CAMPING | BOATING | SHOPPING | EVENTS | HISTORY

PDC AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE & TOURISM COUNCIL: 800-732-1673 TRAVEL WISCONSIN WELCOME CENTER - PDC: 608-326-2241 • 211 S. Main St.

DRIFTLESS FUN FACT: Luana, Iowa, was named in honor of the founder’s wife.

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Scenic Gutt enberg AN IOWA GREAT PLACE

FISHING HIKING BIKING DINING

Historic river town named one of

SHOPPING

America’s Prettiest Towns

LODGING

by Yahoo and Forbes

ART

driftless

guttenburgiowa.net

JOURNAL driftless

DECORAH

JOURNAL Regional publication focused on educating, engaging and entertaining.

City & County Government Obituaries

Reaching 20,000+ households weekly.

Letters to the Editor

CONTACT A MARKETING REP!

Echoes of the Past 10 to 80 years

563-382-4221

Expanded Sports

.

s..

Soak in amazing view

250 ft. above the Mississippi!

Voted

Eagle View

MOTEL & RETREAT

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115 Acre Street, Guttenberg, IA 563-252-1653 eagleviewmotel@yahoo.com

www.eagleviewmotel.com

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PAPER M ON INDIE BOOKS & GIFT STORE

First floor

Destination Dr ift

Featured Loclesa s tion

second floor

THIRD floor

SAT+SUN

PIZZA • LIVE MUSIC

FROZEN DRINKS • BEER

SELTZERS • LIQUOR

ROCKS, MINERALS & FOSSILS

OPEN FRI-SUN 563-873-9613 11AM- CLOSE 101 Front Street, McGregor, IA

OPEN DAILY 8:30AM-4PM

UNIQUE GIFTS www.daisykaycrystals.com 211 Main Street, McGregor, IA 563-873-3067 CHECK GOOGLE & SOCIAL MEDIA FOR HOURS

TRANSIENT DOCKING SEASONAL SLIPS•GAS

SPECIALTY COFFEE BREAKFAST & LUNCH ITEMS

RENTALS

JET-SKI•PONTOON LILY PAD•KAYAK 400 Business Highway 18 N , McGregor, IA • 563-873-9613

LNIFTHEE River

#McGregorIowa #MarquetteIowa

O

DINING Restaurants • Winery • Brewery LODGING Cabins • River-View Motel Hotels • AirBnB’s • Camping OUTDOORS Boat & Jet Ski Rentals • Effigy Mounds Pikes Peak State Park Riverboat Tours • Hiking Trails Fat Tire Biking • Parks • Marinas SHOPPING Specialty Shops • Antiques • Flea Markets ACTIVITIES Casino • Railroad Depot Museum McGregor Historical Museum Driftless Area Wetlands Centre Art Festivals • Art Center • Live Music

www.mcgreg-marq.org • 563-873-2186 • 800-896-0910 • #portsofdiscovery DRIFTLESS FUN FACT: The five Ringling Brothers, founders of the circus that still bears their name, were born in McGregor, IA.

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PADDLING THE VOLGA AND TURKEY RIVERS

By Brian Gibbs

The Volga River may be Iowa’s prettiest little river. Adequate streamflow is needed to float this rocky river without dragging your boat on the bottom. Look to paddle the Volga after a recent rainfall when flows are up a bit. Put in at Klock’s Island Park and Campground on the west end of the City of Fayette. From here you can float 3.3 miles through Fayette then down to Langman’s Ford access on Hemlock road just east of Fayette.

For a longer and more scenic trip on the Volga featuring a waterfall, rock strewn boulders and scenic bluffs, consider taking a half a day to float the 8.5 mile stretch from Klock’s Island to the Albany Bridge Access in Volga River State Recreation Area.

Further down river in Clayton County, paddlers can put in at Osborne Nature Center and float down to the town of Littleport. Numerous rock bars and bluffs can be found on this stretch and anglers can try their luck for catching smallmouth bass. Plan on being on the water for 4-5

Seasonal

Patio Dining

Turkey River and Turkey River Trail near Elgin, IA

hours during this charming stretch of river.

The 98-mile Turkey River Water Trail is one of Iowa’s premier water trails. Featuring abundant wildlife including eagles’ nests, river otters, turkey and 74 species of fish, this is a river you have to experience.

The five mile stretch in Fayette County between Clermont and Gilbertson Park is a local favorite that features fantastic scenery, good fishing and lots to explore. After you take out at the Gilbertson campground, be sure to check out the 1000-acre Gilbertson Conservation Education Area that includes: 10 miles of trails, seven walkin campsites, a nature center, petting zoo, pond and outdoor playscape. You can retrace your river experience via land on the four-mile bike trail that connects the campground/nature center to Clermont.

Another fantastic stretch of the Turkey River can be experienced by paddling the 6.5 mile stretch from Elkader to Motor Mill Historic Park. Along this float you will find tree-lined bluffs, peaceful riffles and end at the historic Motor Mill Historic Park. The park also offers primitive camping and trails for hikers.

Daily Food Specials

LIVE

MUSIC! Drink Specials (563) 245-2541 | 203 Main St. SW, Elkader |

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mances Live perfor by professional entertainers & award-winning community theater

The

Elkader Campground

HISTORIC

OPERA HOUSE

ELKADER

Play outdoors by day, see a play at night

I

Explore

t’s a short drive on Highways 13 and 56 to Elkader, a charming town nestled in the Turkey River valley.

• Boutique-Style Shopping • Historic Architecture • Enticing Dining Options • Brewery and Imported Beers • Museums • Hiking Trails & Parks • Golf Course and Disc Golf Courses • Trout Fishing • Lodging & Camping

ELKADER,IOWA

ELKADER, IOWA Worth the drive on the River Bluffs Scenic Byway.

www.elkader-iowa.com

DRIFTLESS FUN FACT: Iowa’s Volga River was named after the Volga River in Russia.

Come, explore today!

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Chuck Gipp Decorah Fish Hatchery Decorah, IA

FISH HATCHERIES Chuck Gipp Decorah Fish Hatchery 2321 Siewers Spring Rd., Decorah, IA (563) 382-8324 Whether you’re looking to catch a few fish, take some amazing nature photos or just soak in the beauty of Winneshiek County, the Chuck Gipp Decorah Fish Hatchery has it all.

Located just two miles south of Decorah, the fish hatchery is a production rearing station for growing Shasta strain rainbow and St. Croix strain brook trout. Approximately 130,000 catchable-size rainbow trout are reared annually at the fish hatchery.

Decorah fish hatchery personnel are responsible for stocking 15 put-and-take streams in Allamakee, Howard, Mitchell and Winneshiek counties.

The hatchery has handicap fishing access with a cement path leading to three fishing holes. Fishing is also available out of the Trout Run stream.

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The hatchery features 24 cement flow raceways and three earthen ponds. A visitor center nestled in a gazebo offers maps and literature. There is no admission charge.

The fish hatchery is open 365 days a year from sunrise to sunset. Group tours can be scheduled by calling the hatchery. Office hours are 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily.

Big Spring Fish Hatchery 16212 Big Spring Rd., Elkader, IA (563) 245-2446 Almost 150,000 rainbow trout are raised at Big Spring and stocked by hatchery personnel into 15 cold-water streams. All trout reared at Big Spring are obtained from the Manchester Hatchery when they are 2-3 inches and then grown to catchable-size (10-12 inches). It takes approximately 15 months to grow a trout to catchable-size.

The water supply for Big Spring is fed by the largest cold-water spring in Iowa. The Big Spring Rearing Station is located along the Turkey River 10 miles northwest of Elkader in Clayton County.

The Big Spring Basin is a showcase for large sinkholes, streams and caves.

The Turkey River at Big Spring is open for public fishing. Recently completed renovations include an improved angler access trail along the river, a trout pond at the entrance that is open for public fishing and a kids’ fishing pond for young anglers 15 and under (kids must be accompanied by a licensed adult). Trout are stocked in the Turkey River, Big Spring Pond and the Kids Fishing Pond 2-3 times a week April 1-October. The hatchery grounds and Turkey River are open to the public seven days a week year-round. A primitive campground located at Big Spring is open to the public for $15 per night within walking distance of the hatchery.

The fish hatchery is open to the public 365 days a year from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m.

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WINGS • SALADS PASTAS • DESSERTS Gluten-free crust available

DINE -IN, CAR RY-O UT TAKE -N-B AKE

BEER ON TAP 127 N. Main, Elkader, IA 563-245-2800

110 W. Bridge St. Elkader, Iowa thebrimcoffeehouse.com 563-245-2242 | @thebrimelkader

14,000 SQ. FT. OF UNIQUE SHOPPING ANTIQUES ◆ GIFTS PRIMITIVES COLLECTIBLES ROCKS ◆ MINERALS FOSSILS

Something For Everyone!

Open Monday - Saturday 9:30am - 4:30pm Sunday 12pm - 4pm

TURKEY RIVER MALL

Closed Easter, Thanksgiving and Christmas

563-245-3995 ◆ 102 S. Main St., Elkader, IA

turkeyrivermallelkader.com

DRIFTLESS FUN FACT: Pocket parks are small outdoor public spaces usually the size of a residential lot or smaller.

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RACETRACKS Winneshiek Raceway 900 E. Main Street, Decorah, IA (563) 379-1979 Looking for a night of fun and speed? Look no further than the 1/4-mile dirt semi-banked oval at Winneshiek Raceway in Decorah. Located on the Winneshiek County Fairgrounds, the raceway holds races every Saturday night (check FB for exceptions should they arise). Hot laps begin each night at 6:30 p.m., with races getting underway at 7 p.m.

Five racing classes are in competition each Saturday, including: USRA Stock Cars, USRA B-Mods, USRA Hobby Stocks, 600 Mod-Lites and USRA Tuners.

Admission prices for the 2023 season are $5 and those under 5 are free. A regular pit pass is $25.

The Winneshiek Raceway website is available to help the fans follow season points totals and other events at www.winneshiekraceway.com.

Fayette County Speedway 504 S. Vine St., West Union, IA (319) 327-2733 Fayette County Speedway is one of the oldest, continuous-

Winneshiek Raceway, Decorah, IA | Zak Kriener

ly running weekly racetracks in Iowa. The 3/8-mile track features 600 Mod Lites, Tuners, USRA B-Mods, USRA Hobby Stocks and USRA Stock Cars each Friday night. Grandstand admission is $5 with kids 5 and under free with paid adult. Pit passes are $25. Hot laps start at 7 p.m., followed by racing at 7:30 p.m. For more information visit the website at racefayettecountyspeedway.net.

Built in the 1930s, the Fayette County Fairgrounds was a horse racetrack that circled just about the entire fairgrounds. Undergoing several changes throughout the years, it was 1991 when the current 3/8-mile track was constructed with two crow’s nests and a backstretch fence. The

Fayette County Speedway, Decorah, IA | Zak Kriener

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track is now operated by the Fayette County Ag Society’s Race Committee.

Deer Creek Speedway 25262 Highway 63 Spring Valley, MN (507) 346-2342 Located 15 miles south of Rochester, Deer Creek Speedway is home to 60-plus acres of one of the most state-of-the-art racing complexes in the country.

The high-backed 3/8-mile dirtclay racetrack schedules an average of 30 events a year. Each Saturday night, from April to October, five classes of race cars kick up the dirt including USRA Modifieds, USRA B-Mods, Wissota Super Stocks, Wissota Midwest Mods and Wissota Street Stocks.

With 24 VIP suites and 36 VIP decks, Deer Creek has held some of the biggest events in the country. A full-service campground, also located within the facility, is fully equipped to handle any size rig and has made home to over 250 campers for one event alone.

For more information on upcoming events visit deercreekspeedway.com.

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Open May 5

live

music food trucks & Wine Slushes Unique lodging

Iowa wines

& Iowa Craft Beers

Fun Gifts

Find here

it all The Chicken Coop

The Corn Crib

www.kkgardens.com

Iowa's #1 Destination Garden Center 50 mins north of Waterloo 30 mins south of Decorah

Offering over 40,000 plants!

Decorah

K&K Gardens

Waterloo

108 E. Wilbur St, Hawkeye, Iowa • 563.427.5373 • Open daily May - September

DRIFTLESS FUN FACT: Iowa’s Turkey River is a 153-mile-long tributary of the upper Mississippi River.

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Trails to fun...

Visit the Turkey River Recreational Corridor and discover its unique geography and recreational opportunities, including a variety of walking trails, historic sites, and public art installments. Enjoy the 98-mile Turkey River Water Trail, providing scenic paddling excursions for the experienced kayaker or first-time canoer and discover miles of hiking and bicycle trails. Discover unique dining, shopping, and entertainment in Clermont, Elgin, and Elkader, including authentic Algerian cuisine, antique shops, an art gallery, Opera House, museums, and more!

/turkeyriverrocks

/TRRCRocks

www.turkeyrivercorridor.com VISIT

Fayette County

Fayette County is located in beautiful Northeast Iowa and offers an abundance of natural resources, recreational opportunities, and unique locally-owned businesses.

The county's small rural communities create the perfect setting to live, work, and play.

www. visitfayettecountyiowa.com

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Welcome to the

!

LODGE!

FAMILY FUN WEEKEND! June 16 & 17, 2023 Always the third weekend in June

Stage entertainment & activities for all ages!

Reserve Rese rve the Lodge The forLodg your overnight e stay, s,Clays, Trap, Skeet, Sporting Trap, Skeet, Open 7 Days A Week

Handgun & Rifle Ranges veryday . Daily Available

Follow us on Facebook at Lawler Irish Festival

www.lawleririshfest.com

meetings, receptions

for your

overnigh t available Sat. & & other parties. nd& 5-Stand availab le Sun. or anytime by appt. stay, meeting (Seating for s , 150) days, or any receptions OUR SERVICES INCLUDE: ent. & other parties.

• Sept. 1 - March 31 hunting season.

NCLUD for 150) E: training (Seating • Year round dog hunts.

• Guide season. and dog available. unting • Bird cleaning service. ning hunts.

• Meals provided upon request.

• Gift able. certificates available.

1838 Middle Calmar Rd, Decorah, IA e.

563-532-9821 • chasetheadventure.com n request. lable.

, Decorah, IA 563-532-9821 venture.com

Newly reopened formerly The White House Supper Club

Open Wednesday thru Saturday

4:00PM-9:00PM 104 Main Street, Saint Lucas, IA 563-778-3291

STEAKS, BRISKET, PORKCHOPS, SEAFOOD CHICKEN, SALADS, SOUPS, SANDWICHES APPETIZERS + SPECIALTY DRINKS DRIFTLESS FUN FACT: Described as the “world’s smallest church,” St. Anthony of Padua Chapel near Festina, IA is 14’ x 20’ and seats just eight. 85

th 47 Annual

LAKE MEYER Fort Atkinson

RENDEZVOUS SEPTEMBER 23 & 24, 2023 Saturday 9:30 am to 4:30 pm

UPCOMING EVENTS CAR CRUISE Sunday, Aug. 27 10 am - 6 pm RENDEZVOUS CHICKEN DINNER Friday, Sept. 22 4:30 pm - 7 pm

5K Walk /R on Saturd un a email fo y r info

Sunday

9:00 am to 3:30 pm

NO Admission Charge

FREE PARKING Bring the Family!!

For more information email: fortatkinsoniowarendezvous@gmail.com

Fort Atkinson Iowa Rendezvous Sponsored by Friends of Fort Atkinson and the Iowa DNR. Held with permission of the Iowa State Preserves Advisory Board.

5K RUN/WALK & KIDS FUN RUN Saturday, Sept. 23 Listed on the National Register of Historic Places 7:30 am

Lake Meyer, Fort Atkinson, IA 2546 Lake Meyer Road, Fort Atkinson

Winneshiek County Conservation installed a new kayak launch at Lake Meyer Park near Fort Atkinson recently. The launch is attached to the fishing dock located at the northwestern edge of the lake. The new launch was made possible thanks to support from the Winneshiek County Community Foundation.

Visitors will also enjoy hiking trails, picnic shelters, a butterfly garden, playground, nature center, ball diamond and campground.

For more information, please contact Winneshiek County Conservation at (563) 534-7145.

BILY CLOCKS

MUSEUM

& Antonin Dvorak Exhibit 563-562-3569 bilyclocks.org 323 S. Main St., Spillville, IA www.bankingwithcsb.com

101 Church St., Spillville (563) 562-3674

104 4th St. NW, Ft. Atkinson (563) 534-7211

109 N. Main St., Protivin (563) 569-8779

Your locally owned community bank since 1908 Citizens Savings Bank invites you to enjoy area attractions!

Bily Clocks • Antonin Dvorak Inwood Ballroom & Parks Fort Atkinson Preserve & So Much More!

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NORMAN BORLAUG BOYHOOD FARM

McAllister Catering

19518 200th Street, Cresco, Iowa

Walk in the footsteps of a young boy learning lessons that would lead to the revolutionary changes he engineered around the world through his innovative approaches to agriculture.

The Norman Borlaug Boyhood Farm offers educational, environmental, and agricultural events for all ages. Call 563-547-3434 for a private tour.

Dr. Borlaug is credited with saving millions of lives by developing a wheat hybrid that could be grown in adverse conditions. He is one of only seven people to be awarded the Nobel Peace Prize, Congressional Gold Medal and Presidential Medal of Freedom.

& Heritage Events Center

563-380-3146 229 3rd Ave. W., Cresco

“Our Place or Yours” Open 5-8pm Every Friday

For Beer-Battered Cod & Chicken Buffet Variety of homemade salads and desserts.

Includes beverage.

11am-1pm Wednesday “Lunch To Go or Dine In” 3 meals to choose from!

Catering

Norman Borlaug

We cater many types of events and will customize a menu for you and your budget!

DRIFTLESS FUN FACT: Ellen Church, the first female flight attendant, was born in Cresco, IA.

87

SNOWMOBILING Iowa trails Snowmobile trails in northeast Iowa are operated by Winneshiek Trail Twisters (Winneshiek Trail Twisters on Facebook); Driftrunners (Driftrunners Snowmobile Club on Facebook); Trails Unlimited (trailsunlimited.net/ or Trails Unlimited Snowmobile Club on Facebook); Clayton Co. Snowbirds (claytoncountysnowbirds. com/); and Chickasaw Sno-Riders (Chickasaw Sno-Riders on Facebook); Allamakee Sno-Blazers.

Recreational owners and operators on public ice and designated public riding trails and areas must have their machines currently registered with either the Department of Natural Resources or another state if a nonresident.

All Iowa registrations and DNR User Permits expire Dec. 31 each calendar year.

Residents can obtain registrations and renewals from their county recorder’s office. Nonresidents can obtain registration from their home state if their state has a numbering or registration system.

Minnesota trails Trails in southeast Minnesota are operated by Houston Money-Creek Sno Riders (on Facebook), LaCrescent Snowmobile Club (on Facebook) and Viking Ridge Riders (Viking Ridge Riders Snowmobile Club on Facebook).

The State of Minnesota requires only a current registration on snowmobiles. At this time, you do not need a certificate of title for your snowmobile.

There are two options for snowmobile registration: 1. A snowmobile may now be registered for trail use or non-trail use.

• The trail use registration fee is $113.50 for 3 years and includes

unlimited use of Minnesota’s 22,000 miles of state and grant-inaid trails.

2. The non-trail use registration fee is $53.50 for 3 years and is not transferable. A snowmobile that is registered for non-trail use may NOT be operated on a state or grant-in-aid trail including a grant-in-aid trail in a road rightof-way.

• A non-trail use registration requires a new registration number to be affixed to the snowmobile.

• A state trail sticker is not valid for use on a non-trail use registered snowmobile.

• If an individual wants to use a non-trail use registered snowmobile on a state or grant-in-aid trail, the snowmobile will need to be re-registered for trail use and a new registration number will be assigned.

• A non-trail use registration decal will be yellow in color.

WINTER ON THE TRAILS With a wealth of all-season trails, the Driftless is a paradise for Nordic (also known as classic) skiers and skate skiers.

Practicing trail etiquette, whether walking, snowshoeing or skiing ensures, everyone can get the most out of the season.

The main thing is for walkers to stay off the ski lanes to ensure everyone has the best experience. Lanes for Nordic skiing often have two parallel tracks while lanes for skate skiing will have a smooth, packed surface much like an ice-skating rink surface.

Additionally, skiers headed downhill have the right-of-way.

In Decorah, the Park and Recreation Department works throughout the winter to groom more than 20 miles of trails to accommodate all types of trail users, making specific lanes for Nordic skiing, skate skiing and walkers.

Consider the weather, is it too warm to be using the trail? The trail could be damaged if boot prints, pet paws, snowshoes or bike tires are sinking an inch or more, it is not the best time to use it.

88

Trail signage on Decorah trails identifies which lanes to use for various winter activities.

Staying in “your lane” keeps everyone safe and enjoying the trails all season. Visit www.parks. decorahia.org for the latest on trail conditions and grooming.

driftlessjournal.com

The

shop, drink, relax.

Ox & Wren Spirits & Gifts

SHOP A VARIETY OF HOME DECOR & SEASONAL GIFTS

CUSTOM GIFT BASKETS

WIDE SELECTION OF BEER, LIQUOR & WINE Maria Larson, Manager

n Join us o ! the patio

MON-THURS 8AM-8PM FRI-SAT 8AM-9PM SUN 9AM-2PM

563-547-3900

708 2nd Ave SE, Cresco, IA

(May-December only; closed January-April)

LIVE SHOWS • EVENTS • WEEKLY MOVIES

Historic theatre with current amenities

See our schedule of live entertainment & special events Available to rent for private & public events

Years

Thank you for your support!

1915-2022

...AND COUNTING! DRIFTLESS FUN FACT: There are more golf courses per capita in Iowa than in any other state.

89

FEATURING THE BEST LOCALLY-SOURCED

STEAKS • CHOPS • SEAFOOD

FULL-SERVICE BAR SERVING SPECIALTY COCKTAILS 2149 Twin Springs Road, Decorah, IA 563-382-4096 • www.twinspringssupperclub.com

An exceptional meal awaits you at this scenic restaurant in the woods

OLD ARMORY

BBQ CHOP HOUSE

BBQ AT WE CATER! ITS BEST! SLOW COOKED MEATS HOMEMADE SAUCES APPETIZERS & SIDES

ANY SIZE EVEN T! Contact Chef Matt

OPEN DAILY | 208 College Dr., Decorah

563-382-6208 oldarmorybbqdecorah.com 90

driftlessjournal.com

PLAN YOUR DRIFTLESS VISIT WINNESHIEK COUNTY, IA 01. Vesterheim Norwegian American Museum 312 W Water St., Decorah ........... see page 13

DRIFTLESS FEATURED DESTINATION SHOPPING/SERVICES ATTRACTION

LODGING FOOD/DRINK

02. Winneshiek Medical Center 901 Montgomery St., Decorah .... see page 16 03. Nordic Fest Decorah........................................ see page 21 04. Market 52 3220 US-52, Decorah ................... see page 42 05. Heavenly Made Gifts and the Gnome Store 126 E Water St., Decorah ............. see page 13 06. Bluffton Resort and Bar 2619 W Ravine Rd., Decorah ....... see page 23 07. Barney’s Bar & Grill 3607 236th Ave., Burr Oak........... see page 23 08. Twin Springs Supper Club 2149 Twin Springs Rd., Decorah .. see page 90 09. Luther College 700 College Dr., Decorah ............. see page 6 10. Scooter’s Coffee 900 Short St., Decorah ................. see page 21 11. The Landing Market 211 College Dr., Decorah .............. see page 8 12. Seed Savers 3074 North Winn Rd., Decorah.... see page 25 13. Ace Stores 200 E Main St., Decorah .............. see page 12 14. HyVee 915 Short St., #107, Decorah ....... see page 37 15. Pinter’s Gardens & Pumpkins 2475 IA-9, Decorah ...................... see page 27 16. Oneota Community Food Co-op 312 W Water St., Decorah ............. see page 2 17. Dragonfly/Silver Birch Both on Water St., Decorah ........... see page 7 18. Roundhouse Retreat 2884 Bluffton Rd., Decorah .......... see page 42 19. Kelly Real Estate 1870 IA-9, Decorah ..................... see page 33 20. Fairfield Inn & Suites 2041 IA-9, Decorah ...................... see page 28 21. LetterWerks Sign City 2957 US-52, Decorah .................. see page 12 22. Fisk Farm & Home 915 Short St., Decorah ................. see page 32 23. Toppling Goliath 1600 Prosperity Rd., Decorah ...... see page 17 24. Magpie Café & Coffeehouse 202 W Water St., Decorah .......... see page 33

DRIFTLESS MAP ON THE NEXT PAGE WINNESHIEK COUNTY, IA continued 25. Decorah Bicycles 101 College Dr., Decorah .............see page D 26. Decorah High Point Cabins 284 Old Spruce Dr., Decorah ...... see page 19 27. Decorah Municipal Swimming Pool 701 College Dr., Decorah ............ see page 15 28. Decorah Parks & Recreation 400 Claiborne Dr., Decorah ........ see page 15 29. Phelps Park 613 Park St., Decorah................... see page 15 30. Rubaiyat Restaurant 117 W Water St., Decorah .......... see page 94 31. Bear Creek Cabins 3497 Highlandville Rd., Highlandville see page 43 32. Winneshiek Wildberry Winery 1966 337th St., Decorah ............. see page 12 WINONA COUNTY, MN 33. B & B’s Fremont Store 29476 Co Rd 29, Utica ................ see page 51 LA CROSSE COUNTY, WI 34. Courtyard by Marriott 500 Front St., S La Crosse ............ see page 62 35. Stoney Creek Hotel 3060 S Kinney Coulee Rd., Onalaska see page 63 36. Taqueria Pato Azul 217 4th St. S, La Crosse .............. see page 60 HOWARD COUNTY, IA 37. Cresco Welcome Center 101 2nd Ave. SW, Cresco............. see page 87 38. Cresco Theatre & Opera House 115 2nd Ave. W, Cresco .............. see page 89 39. Ox and Wren Spirits & Gifts 708 2nd Ave. SE, Cresco ............. see page 89 BLACK HAWK COUNTY, IA 40. Lost Island Water and Theme Park 2225 E Shaulis Rd., Waterloo ....... see page 41

DRIFTLESS FUN FACT: Iowa is named after the Iowa river, which is named after the Iowa tribe. It means “one who puts to sleep.”

91

FILLMORE COUNTY, MN

ALLAMAKEE COUNTY, IA

41. Broadway Guest House 520 N Broadway, Spring Valley .... see page 57

65. Empty Nest Winery 13521 Apple Rd., Waukon .......... see page 68

42. Stellar 181 Taphouse 120 N Broadway Ave., Spring Valley . see page 56

66. Hartig Drug 21 W Main St., Waukon ............... see page 69

43. Eagle Bluff Environmental Learning Center 28097 Goodview Dr., Lanesboro . see page 49

67. Allamakee Economic Development 101 W Main St., Waukon ............. see page 71

44. Little River General Store 105 Coffee St. E, Lanesboro .......... see page 2

68. Forest Mills Quilt Shop 650 Forest Mills Rd., Postville ..... see page 73

45. Adourn Boutique 218 Main St. S, Chatfield ............. see page 59

69. Jalapeños Mexican Cuisine 142 S Lawler St., Postville ........... see page 73

46. Chatfield Center for the Arts 405 Main St. S, Chatfield ............. see page 59

70. Our Postville Community Heart & Soul Postville ........................................ see page 73

47. Root River Inn 106 Parkway Ave. S, Lanesboro ... see page 53

71. River Run Rentals 563-538-4245 ............................... see page 67

48. Eagle Cliff Campground 35455 MN-16, Lanesboro ............ see page 53

CLAYTON COUNTY, IA

49. Niagara Cave 29842 County Rd. 30, Harmony .. see page 46 50. Harmony Chamber of Commerce 15 2nd St., NW, Harmony ......see page 44/45 51. Steam Engine Park S Main St./E Alpine Ave., Mabel . see page 43 52. Norsland Lefse 210 W Jessie St., Rushford ........... see page 55 53. Rushford Creamery 407 S Mill St., Rushford ................ see page 54 54. The Boutique Station 41178 MN-16, Peterson ................ see page 3

72. The Brim Coffeehouse 110 W Bridge St., Elkader ........... see page 81 73. Turkey River Mall 102 S Main St., Elkader ............... see page 81 74. City of Elkader Elkader ......................................... see page 79 75. Elkader Opera House 207 N Main St, Elkader ................ see page 79 76. TD’s Sports Bar and Grill 2203 Main St. SW, Elkader ........... see page 78 77. McGregor and Marquette City Hall McGregor and Marquette ............ see page 77

55. Amish Valley Cabin 38109 134th St., Canton ............. see page 37

78. Center St., Bar & Grill 103 E Center St., Monona............ see page 74

HOUSTON COUNTY, MN

79. Suhdron Fabrics 120 W Center St., Monona .......... see page 73

56. Saxon Hall 702 Main St., Brownsville ............. see page 63 57. Outback Ranch 7750 Tt Rd., Houston .................. see page 52 58. International Owl Center 126 E Cedar St., Houston ............ see page 48 59. Giants of the Earth Heritage Center 163 W Main St., Spring Grove ..... see page 62 60. Viking Memorial Park Downtown Spring Grove ............. see page 65 61. Little Miami Restaurant & Bar 5349 County 249, Caledonia ...... see page 67 62. The Caledonia Gallery 115 E Main St., Caledonia ........... see page 48

80. St. Olaf Tavern 106 S Main St., St. Olaf ............... see page 80 81. Big Buoys Tiki Bar 101 Front St., McGregor ............. see page 77 FAYETTE COUNTY, IA 82. Heavenly Boutique Winery 10408 Ivy Rd., Fayette ................. see page 83 83. K&K Gardens 108 E Wilbur St., Hawkeye .......... see page 83 84. Sips & Savors 104 W Main St., St. Lucas ............ see page 85

OLMSTED COUNTY, MN

85. Gilbertson Conservation Education Area 22580 A Ave., Elgin ..................... see page 84

63. Kwik Trip/Kwik Star Locations near you ....................... see page 35

CRAWFORD COUNTY, WI

64. Real Deals Rochester 2050 Jordyn Rd. NW, Rochester . see page 61

86. Prairie du Chien Chamber and Tourism Prairie du Chien ........................... see page 75

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33

DRIFTLESS FEATURED DESTINATION

Rochester, MN

64

SHOPPING/SERVICES

To Rochester: North on Hwy 52.

LODGING FOOD/DRINK 27 11 Co

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Dr

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01

43

03

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16

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Earn contest entries when you shop or dine at Featured Destinations.

See page 9 for details.

ATTRACTION

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St. Lucas

24

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86

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The Harmony-Preston Valley State Trail Master Plan Amendment was approved in November 2021.

Development plans are in process. Construction of the new trail segment, an extension from Harmony to the Iowa border and Niagara Cave, is tentatively scheduled to begin in 2024. Currently, the Harmony-Preston Valley State Trail terminates at the Harmony-Preston Valley Trailhead Park in Harmony.

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PICTURED LEFT- Niagara Cave, one of the top ten rated caves in the United States, is located just south of Harmony, Minn. The limestone cave is approximately 200 feet deep with an undergound stream, stalactites, stalagmites, fossils and a 60 foot waterfall. RIGHT- The Root River State Trail as is passes through Rushford, Minn.

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11 11 MILES. MILES. YEARYEARROUND. ROUND.

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The aptly-named Trout Run Trail crosses trout streams five times on its 11-mile loop. The easy-rangingto-challenging route crosses incredible landscape & mounts steep switchbacks for breathtaking views. In the heart of it all lies picturesque Decorah, Iowa, a town packed with fun and adventure!

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by Decorah Parks and Recreation, a great place to let your Recreation, a great place to let your pooch pooch run off-leash (but keep run off-leash (butthem keep them on leash all on trails)! on on leash all trails)!

EasyEasy Terrain = Easy Terrain = Easy = Challenging = Challenging Challenging Terrain Challenging Terrain = Half-mile = Half-mile

JustJust follow thesethese signs!signs! follow Design by Design by

iloveinspired.com iloveinspired.com

visitdecorah.com visitdecorah.com 1-563-382-3990 1-563-382-3990

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WhereWhere Fifth Ave meets Fifth Ave meets CollegeCollege Dr, youDr,can right yougocan goW right W for Downtown, or left to for Downtown, or left to check check out “west side” out “west side” businesses, Luther Luther College, businesses, College, or Ice Cave where or IceRoad Cave –Road – where you’ll find Dunning’s Spring,Spring, you’ll find Dunning’s scenic scenic parks, parks, & great&hiking great hiking trails! And, you’re up for up an for an trails!ifAnd, if you’re adventure, awesome adventure, awesome mountain biking trails too! mountain biking trails too!

DUNNING’S DUNNING’S ICE CAVE ICE CAVE SPRING SPRING PARK PARK PARK PARK

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Emergency Signage Along thethe Trails Emergency Signage Along Trails

Signage along the trails provides trail users with location information they they Signage along the trails provides trail users with location information can relay to emergency responders in case of anofaccident or emergency can relay to emergency responders in case an accident or emergency The white GPS coordinates that help personnel to situation. situation.

The and whiteblue andsigns blue display signs display GPS coordinates thatemergency help emergency personnel to

quicklyquickly find someone who has accident on theon trail. on a national standardized GPS grid find someone whohad hasanhad an accident theBased trail. Based on a national standardized GPS grid system, the signs criticalcritical and consitent information to emergency personnel. system, the provide signs provide and consitent information to emergency personnel.

A sample emergency sign issign pictured below.below.

A sample emergency is pictured If youIfhave an emergency on trail, thesethese simple steps:steps: you have an emergency on follow trail, follow simple 1. Dial1.911 Dial 911 2.

Read the six large numbers (Fig. 1) to dispatcher.

2. Read the six large numbers (Fig. the 1) to the dispatcher. figure fi2gure 2 3. If requested, also read small numbers and letters at the at topthe of top sign(Fig. 2) 2) 3. If requested, alsothe read the small numbers and letters of sign(Fig. figure fi1gure 1

Be patient, it mayittake time for emergency personnel to reach you. you.

Be patient, maysome take some time for emergency personnel to reach Remember, sometimes they will travel the same trails you to did get to to get to Remember, sometimes theyhave will to have to travel the same trailsdid you your location.

Funding for thefor signs in partinfrom Decorah RotaryRotary Club Club your location.

Funding the comes signs comes partthe from the Decorah and the Winneshiek CountyCounty E 9-1-1 Board.Board. and the Winneshiek E 9-1-1

This nifty of Winneshiek County map was possible by these fine groups: This Trails nifty Trails of Winneshiek County mapmade was made possible by these fine groups:

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County: 563-534-7145; City: 563-382-4158 County: 563-534-7145; City: 563-382-4158 Special thanksthanks to Peterson Creative, Inspire(d) Media,Media, JoyceJoyce MeyerMeyer Photography & Larry& Reis.

Special to Peterson Creative, Inspire(d) Photography Larry Reis.

LEFT- The Freeport Trail now boasts a brand new playground at the Freeport Park. The equipment includes a zip line, rock wall and a mini city in addition to swings, slides and more.

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TRAIL HIGHLIGHTS The Prairie Farmer Recreational Trail is great for birding, road biking and running.

It is generally described as easy, with an elevation gain of only 629 ft.

The trail primarily follows the abandoned Milwaukee Railroad line which dates as far back as 1866. A restored Milwaukee Railroad diesel engine can be viewed at Beadle Park, just over a half mile from the northern trailhead in Cresco.

At the southern trailhead in Calmar, an interpretive loop explores signage from the Milwaukee Railroad era and a historical rail depot.

In Calmar, the trail passes through a small park that is home to the Winneshiek County Freedom Rock, parking, a gazebo and benches.

The trail briefly switches to streets while passing through Ridgeway, where travelers can visit the town’s Veterans Memorial.

FREEDOM ROCKS

Ray ‘Bubba’ Sorensen has traveled the state of Iowa to put a Freedom Rock in each county honoring veterans and first responders. There is now a Freedom Rock in every one of Iowa’s 99 counties, including two Freedom Rocks on the Prairie Farmer Recreational Trail. In Calmar, the trail passes within feet of Winneshiek County’s Freedom Rock. While not directly on the trail, Howard County’s Freedom Rock is just one city block off of it.

CARDINAL MARSH

Freedom Rock, Calmar, IA

Cardinal Marsh, an Iowa DNR Wildlife Management Area, sits southwest of the Prairie Farmer Recreational Trail. It offers outdoor adventures, including hiking, hunting, fishing, paddling and bird watching.

It is a public hunting area, so pay attention to hunting seasons and regulations. To protect ground-nesting birds, dogs are not allowed at the marsh between Trumpeter swans | Larry Reis March 15 and July 15.

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Based on original map by Inspire(d) Media

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