Various Attractions in Juneau County
(In no special order)
The Omaha Bike Trail
The Omaha Trail runs south for 13 miles from Camp Douglas to Elroy Wisconsin. This trail is paved, and has one tunnel, which is 300 feet long. The trail also passes spectacular rock outcroppings that are not found anywhere else in Wisconsin or in most of the Midwest. Beginning at the northern end in Camp Douglas, the trail will take you past farms and though pastures for 4 miles before reaching the small town of Hustler. This small village has a public park right near the trail that provides a great spot to rest. There is at least one bar and a bowling alley that serve food in Hustler. Leaving Hustler the trail gently rises through scenic bluffs. At the halfway point, you will reach the entrance to the 300-foot-long tunnel. This historic railroad tunnel is one of the highlights of this trip. A small park just before the tunnel's entrance provides restrooms and water. Contrary to the placement of the tunnel on most maps, it is actually 3¾ mi from Hustler to the tunnel. Upon exiting the tunnel, it is all downhill to the town of Elroy. The final 7 miles pass through sections of dense forest and past scenic Wisconsin farms. Northwest of Camp Douglas is Mill Bluff State Park, which is known for its towering sandstone bluffs. The Omaha Trail is part of a 100+ mile linking trail system.
The "400" Trail
The "400" rail bed trail connects to a system of four other trails forming a virtually continuous route more than 100 miles in length. The scenic "400" route is sprinkled with frequent small town rest stops. It crosses the sinuous Baraboo River eleven times and in places travels through a micro-climate of white pines that cling to rocky bluffs. Access the trail in Elroy at the Elroy Commons at Main St (Hwy 80) and Franklin St, in Juneau County. A horse riding trail parallels the route between La Valle and Wonewoc. The 400 State Trail, located between Reedsburg and Elroy is comprised of five communities conveniently spaced. The spur from Union Center runs southwesterly for 4 miles to Hillsboro. The Trail Headquarters is located in the historic depot in Reedsburg. The 400 State Trail is part of a 100+ mile linking trail system.
Necedah National Wildlife Refuge and Visitor Center (Birding & Wildlife Hotspot)
Necedah National Wildlife Refuge is home to ringed boghaunter dragonflies, whooping cranes, trumpeter swans, wolves, Karner blue butterflies, badgers, and red-headed woodpeckers. Necedah National Wildlife Refuge has one of the largest savanna restorations taking place in Wisconsin. These efforts have provided habitat for more than 110 species of migratory birds, three species of amphibians, 14 types of reptiles, and more than 44 species of butterflies in central Wisconsin The restorations on the refuge are invaluable to the continued survival of many of these species such as the state threatened Blanding’s turtle; federally endangered Karner blue butterfly and whooping crane; red-headed woodpecker, golden-winged warbler, and bobolink. The refuge also has a successful reintroduction record with the release of Canada geese in1939, wild turkey in 1952, mallards in the 1960s, trumpeter swan in 1994, and is currently working to restore an experimental population of whooping cranes.
N11385 Headquarters Rd, Necedah,· (608) 565-2551.
Burr Oak Winery in New Lisbon
The winery's first grapes were planted in 1997. Vines have been added yearly since and most recently 4 acres of NEW vineyards. Building construction began July 15, 2003 with planning and design starting in 2000. I really like the architecture in Germany, so when we started thinking about this building, I wanted it to be a European looking building. I also wanted it to be made out of stone and wood. Almost immediately revisions were necessary in order to incorporate an amazing auction find.. .several stained glass windows from a church that was built in 1882. Probably one of the most spectacular windows we have is one that was given to that church by the Civil War Veterans that were part of that church. It is dedicated to the Grand Army of the Republic. We also have another window that actually has grapes on it, which is our centerpiece window. A new 3,000 sq. ft. addition has been added for our production room and bottling area. We are pleased to be hosting many local events, such as, weddings, graduations, birthdays, showers and art events. N5873 Hwy 12 & 16, New Lisbon, WI 53950, Phone: 608-562-5271.
Mauston Farmers Market
The Mauston Farmers' Market begins on the first Saturday in May and runs through the last weekend in October. The Hours are 7am - Noon every Saturday. Look for the vendors in May to be selling flowers for Mothers' Day. And don't miss out on the early spring asparagus, rhubarb, onions & mushrooms. Many arts & craft items as well! This open-air market features farm fresh fruits and vegetables, homemade items, flowers and plants, and more. The market is held on the Juneau County Courthouse lawn in downtown Mauston, Wisconsin.
Buckhorn State Park in Necedah
Buckhorn State Park is a paradise for water enthusiasts, hunters, hikers, campers, and nature lovers. It is located at W8450 Buckhorn Park Ave. Necedah WI. Buckhorn State Park, established in 1971, includes a 4,500-acre park and wildlife area, a peninsula in the Castle Rock Flowage of the Wisconsin River, and land along the Yellow River. It has an outdoor group camp, 42 cart-in campsites, 11 drive-in sites, two-level accessible wildlife blind, accessible cabin, accessible fishing pier and waterfowl hunting blinds. Phone: 608-565-2789, Reservations: 608-565-2789.
Mill Bluff State Park in Camp Douglas
Mill Bluff State Park has 21 wooded or partially wooded family campsites. Hike the trails, The Nature Trail begins at the far end of the east picnic area. This .4-mile-long trail is a self-guiding. Hikers will learn about wildlife, trees, wildflowers and geology. Part of this trail is accessible for people with disabilities. A historical marker here describes the geological features of the area. For the more ambitious, stone steps wind their way to the top of the bluff. In the mid 1930s, the Work Progress Administration (WPA) built 223 stone steps that lead to the top of Mill Bluff, where an observation deck on the north end offers an excellent view of the park and the surrounding area .The park is located at 15819 Funnel Road, Camp Douglas, Wisconsin.
Phone: 608-427-6692, or Reservations: 608-337-4775.
Riverside & Great Northern Railway
The R&GN is a 15-inch gauge railroad living museum offering fun for young and old. Ride our live steam trains along a 3 mile roadbed winding through scenic canyons, beautiful wooded areas, and majestic rock cuts beside the Dells of the Wisconsin River. Watch the locomotive being turned on a hand operated turntable at Western Springs, and turned again at the final stop at the Hyde Park depot. We are located about 1 mile north of Wisconsin Dells, on the west side of the Wisconsin River, at N115 County N, Wisconsin Dells, WI. Phone 608-254-6367.
Wisconsin National Guard Library & Museum
This fully restored 1896 log lodge features exhibits including uniforms, weapons and equipment, terrain maps and dioramas of famous battles. Military vehicles from years past and static displays of aircraft are found throughout the grounds. Ph: 608-427-1280 prior to visiting, (you need approval to get in the gate at Volk Field). Located on Volk Field, at 101 Independence Dr., Camp Douglas WI 54618.
Cranberry Creek Archaeological District
Contained with the Necedah National Wildlife Refuge, the site contains effigy mounds of the Woodland Culture People dating from 499 B.C. to 1499 A.D. The Woodland Culture people were the ancestors of the Ho-Chunk. The site is on the National Register of Historical Places. Necedah National Wildlife Refuge, Headquarters Rd., Necedah WI 54646, PH: 608-565-4412
Gee's Slough Effigy Mounds
The Woodland Culture people, ancestors of the Ho-Chunk, lived throughout this area from 499B.C. to around 1500 A.D. Indian Mounds Park, just south of New Lisbon is the site of several effigy mounds including a rare flexlegged running panther. The park also includes a linear mound and several round or oval burial mounds that were used by the tribal nobility. The park is located on Indian Mound Road south of New Lisbon off Hwys 12 & 16 and is maintained by the New Lisbon Lions Club. The Effigy Mounds are listed on the National Register of Historical Places.
Harry A. Mortensen Collection
An impressive collection of artifacts from the Woodland Culture people, the collection represents the lifetime achievement of Harry A. Mortensen, a New Lisbon native. A portion of the collection can also be seen at Raabe's Pharmacy on Adams St. in New Lisbon. The Mortensen Collection is listed on the National Register of Historical Places. Harry A. Mortensen Collection, located at the New Lisbon Memorial Library, 115 W Park St., New Lisbon WI 53950. PH: 608-562-3213.
The Boorman House
This 1876 Victorian mansion was built by Benjamin C. Boorman, a native of England. In 1864, he bought the Mauston dam, mills and water rights from the estate of M. M. Maughs. After a fire that destroyed the mills, he rebuilt a mill on the north side of the Lemonweir River to produce flour and feed. Later he built a sawmill and a wool carding mill on the south side of the dam and began construction of the Boorman House in 1874. The home features a grand staircase, a drawing room and a widow's walk. The Boorman House is now the home of the Juneau County Historical Society and showcases extensive collections of artifacts, records and research materials. Dr. McIntosh's medical office building is also preserved at the site and a building housing agricultural implements, wagons and workshops was recently completed. The Boorman House is open on weekends from Memorial Day to Labor Day and hosts a special Christmas Open House beginning around Thanksgiving. The house is listed on the National Register of Historical Places. The Boorman House is located at 211 N. Union St., Mauston WI 53948. PH: 608 847-4142.
Sprague Bridge
This bridge spanning the Yellow River southeast of Finley WI in northern Juneau County has been listed on the National Register of Historical Places since 1995. Built in the early 1900s, the bridge is an excellent example of small bridge construction during that era.
Juneau County Courthouse
Originally built in 1925, the Juneau County Courthouse, with its marbled floors and richly paneled courtrooms, is listed on the National Register of Historical Places. It stands on a square in the center of Mauston, the county seat, and hosts many community activities including a farmers market during the summer. Juneau County Courthouse, 220 E. State St., Mauston WI 53948. PH: 608-847-9300.
Mauston Dam Site
This dam, built in 1842, powered a saw mill owned by M. M. Maughs. The lake formed behind the dam is Lake Decorah, named after a prominent Ho-Chunk family in the area. The mill was destroyed in a fire in 1864 and later rebuilt in another location by Benjamin Boorman.
Buckley Bridge and Mill
Drive out of New Lisbon on Hwy M past Kennedy County Park and you'll cross the Lemonweir River over the Buckley Bridge. The mill was built in 1850 and only its rock foundations can be seen today.
Marian Shrine
Over 50 years ago, a local farm woman claimed to have a vision of the Virgin Mary at this site in Necedah. The followers of this group have built 14 grottoes to depict saints and events in the life of the Holy Family. W5606 Shrine Rd, Necedah, WI.· (608) 565-2341.
New Lisbon Civil War Memorial
A statue erected by the GAR in 1897 stands in Heritage Park on Adams St in New Lisbon. The statue and an authentic Civil War cannon honor the dead from the War Between the States. Also in the park is a restored horse trough that once sat at Adams and Bridge St. in the center of town.
The Elroy Historical Society Museum
This quaint museum in downtown Elroy steps into the city's past when it was a bustling railroad town. Photographs and memorabilia from that bygone era include a working model railroad for the young at heart. The museum is open from 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm on weekends from May 1 to September 30.
Juneau County - Winding Rivers Library System
Elroy Public Library Hatch Public Library
501 Second Main Street 111 West State Street
Elroy, WI 53929 Mauston, WI 53948
608-462-2407 608-847-4454
Necedah Memorial Library New Lisbon Memorial Library
216 South Main Street 115 West Park Street
Necedah, WI 54646 New Lisbon, WI 53950
608-565-7979 608-562-3213
Wonewoc Public Library
305 Center Street
Wonewoc, WI 53968
608-464-7625
(In no special order)
The Omaha Bike Trail
The Omaha Trail runs south for 13 miles from Camp Douglas to Elroy Wisconsin. This trail is paved, and has one tunnel, which is 300 feet long. The trail also passes spectacular rock outcroppings that are not found anywhere else in Wisconsin or in most of the Midwest. Beginning at the northern end in Camp Douglas, the trail will take you past farms and though pastures for 4 miles before reaching the small town of Hustler. This small village has a public park right near the trail that provides a great spot to rest. There is at least one bar and a bowling alley that serve food in Hustler. Leaving Hustler the trail gently rises through scenic bluffs. At the halfway point, you will reach the entrance to the 300-foot-long tunnel. This historic railroad tunnel is one of the highlights of this trip. A small park just before the tunnel's entrance provides restrooms and water. Contrary to the placement of the tunnel on most maps, it is actually 3¾ mi from Hustler to the tunnel. Upon exiting the tunnel, it is all downhill to the town of Elroy. The final 7 miles pass through sections of dense forest and past scenic Wisconsin farms. Northwest of Camp Douglas is Mill Bluff State Park, which is known for its towering sandstone bluffs. The Omaha Trail is part of a 100+ mile linking trail system.
The "400" Trail
The "400" rail bed trail connects to a system of four other trails forming a virtually continuous route more than 100 miles in length. The scenic "400" route is sprinkled with frequent small town rest stops. It crosses the sinuous Baraboo River eleven times and in places travels through a micro-climate of white pines that cling to rocky bluffs. Access the trail in Elroy at the Elroy Commons at Main St (Hwy 80) and Franklin St, in Juneau County. A horse riding trail parallels the route between La Valle and Wonewoc. The 400 State Trail, located between Reedsburg and Elroy is comprised of five communities conveniently spaced. The spur from Union Center runs southwesterly for 4 miles to Hillsboro. The Trail Headquarters is located in the historic depot in Reedsburg. The 400 State Trail is part of a 100+ mile linking trail system.
Necedah National Wildlife Refuge and Visitor Center (Birding & Wildlife Hotspot)
Necedah National Wildlife Refuge is home to ringed boghaunter dragonflies, whooping cranes, trumpeter swans, wolves, Karner blue butterflies, badgers, and red-headed woodpeckers. Necedah National Wildlife Refuge has one of the largest savanna restorations taking place in Wisconsin. These efforts have provided habitat for more than 110 species of migratory birds, three species of amphibians, 14 types of reptiles, and more than 44 species of butterflies in central Wisconsin The restorations on the refuge are invaluable to the continued survival of many of these species such as the state threatened Blanding’s turtle; federally endangered Karner blue butterfly and whooping crane; red-headed woodpecker, golden-winged warbler, and bobolink. The refuge also has a successful reintroduction record with the release of Canada geese in1939, wild turkey in 1952, mallards in the 1960s, trumpeter swan in 1994, and is currently working to restore an experimental population of whooping cranes.
N11385 Headquarters Rd, Necedah,· (608) 565-2551.
Burr Oak Winery in New Lisbon
The winery's first grapes were planted in 1997. Vines have been added yearly since and most recently 4 acres of NEW vineyards. Building construction began July 15, 2003 with planning and design starting in 2000. I really like the architecture in Germany, so when we started thinking about this building, I wanted it to be a European looking building. I also wanted it to be made out of stone and wood. Almost immediately revisions were necessary in order to incorporate an amazing auction find.. .several stained glass windows from a church that was built in 1882. Probably one of the most spectacular windows we have is one that was given to that church by the Civil War Veterans that were part of that church. It is dedicated to the Grand Army of the Republic. We also have another window that actually has grapes on it, which is our centerpiece window. A new 3,000 sq. ft. addition has been added for our production room and bottling area. We are pleased to be hosting many local events, such as, weddings, graduations, birthdays, showers and art events. N5873 Hwy 12 & 16, New Lisbon, WI 53950, Phone: 608-562-5271.
Mauston Farmers Market
The Mauston Farmers' Market begins on the first Saturday in May and runs through the last weekend in October. The Hours are 7am - Noon every Saturday. Look for the vendors in May to be selling flowers for Mothers' Day. And don't miss out on the early spring asparagus, rhubarb, onions & mushrooms. Many arts & craft items as well! This open-air market features farm fresh fruits and vegetables, homemade items, flowers and plants, and more. The market is held on the Juneau County Courthouse lawn in downtown Mauston, Wisconsin.
Buckhorn State Park in Necedah
Buckhorn State Park is a paradise for water enthusiasts, hunters, hikers, campers, and nature lovers. It is located at W8450 Buckhorn Park Ave. Necedah WI. Buckhorn State Park, established in 1971, includes a 4,500-acre park and wildlife area, a peninsula in the Castle Rock Flowage of the Wisconsin River, and land along the Yellow River. It has an outdoor group camp, 42 cart-in campsites, 11 drive-in sites, two-level accessible wildlife blind, accessible cabin, accessible fishing pier and waterfowl hunting blinds. Phone: 608-565-2789, Reservations: 608-565-2789.
Mill Bluff State Park in Camp Douglas
Mill Bluff State Park has 21 wooded or partially wooded family campsites. Hike the trails, The Nature Trail begins at the far end of the east picnic area. This .4-mile-long trail is a self-guiding. Hikers will learn about wildlife, trees, wildflowers and geology. Part of this trail is accessible for people with disabilities. A historical marker here describes the geological features of the area. For the more ambitious, stone steps wind their way to the top of the bluff. In the mid 1930s, the Work Progress Administration (WPA) built 223 stone steps that lead to the top of Mill Bluff, where an observation deck on the north end offers an excellent view of the park and the surrounding area .The park is located at 15819 Funnel Road, Camp Douglas, Wisconsin.
Phone: 608-427-6692, or Reservations: 608-337-4775.
Riverside & Great Northern Railway
The R&GN is a 15-inch gauge railroad living museum offering fun for young and old. Ride our live steam trains along a 3 mile roadbed winding through scenic canyons, beautiful wooded areas, and majestic rock cuts beside the Dells of the Wisconsin River. Watch the locomotive being turned on a hand operated turntable at Western Springs, and turned again at the final stop at the Hyde Park depot. We are located about 1 mile north of Wisconsin Dells, on the west side of the Wisconsin River, at N115 County N, Wisconsin Dells, WI. Phone 608-254-6367.
Wisconsin National Guard Library & Museum
This fully restored 1896 log lodge features exhibits including uniforms, weapons and equipment, terrain maps and dioramas of famous battles. Military vehicles from years past and static displays of aircraft are found throughout the grounds. Ph: 608-427-1280 prior to visiting, (you need approval to get in the gate at Volk Field). Located on Volk Field, at 101 Independence Dr., Camp Douglas WI 54618.
Cranberry Creek Archaeological District
Contained with the Necedah National Wildlife Refuge, the site contains effigy mounds of the Woodland Culture People dating from 499 B.C. to 1499 A.D. The Woodland Culture people were the ancestors of the Ho-Chunk. The site is on the National Register of Historical Places. Necedah National Wildlife Refuge, Headquarters Rd., Necedah WI 54646, PH: 608-565-4412
Gee's Slough Effigy Mounds
The Woodland Culture people, ancestors of the Ho-Chunk, lived throughout this area from 499B.C. to around 1500 A.D. Indian Mounds Park, just south of New Lisbon is the site of several effigy mounds including a rare flexlegged running panther. The park also includes a linear mound and several round or oval burial mounds that were used by the tribal nobility. The park is located on Indian Mound Road south of New Lisbon off Hwys 12 & 16 and is maintained by the New Lisbon Lions Club. The Effigy Mounds are listed on the National Register of Historical Places.
Harry A. Mortensen Collection
An impressive collection of artifacts from the Woodland Culture people, the collection represents the lifetime achievement of Harry A. Mortensen, a New Lisbon native. A portion of the collection can also be seen at Raabe's Pharmacy on Adams St. in New Lisbon. The Mortensen Collection is listed on the National Register of Historical Places. Harry A. Mortensen Collection, located at the New Lisbon Memorial Library, 115 W Park St., New Lisbon WI 53950. PH: 608-562-3213.
The Boorman House
This 1876 Victorian mansion was built by Benjamin C. Boorman, a native of England. In 1864, he bought the Mauston dam, mills and water rights from the estate of M. M. Maughs. After a fire that destroyed the mills, he rebuilt a mill on the north side of the Lemonweir River to produce flour and feed. Later he built a sawmill and a wool carding mill on the south side of the dam and began construction of the Boorman House in 1874. The home features a grand staircase, a drawing room and a widow's walk. The Boorman House is now the home of the Juneau County Historical Society and showcases extensive collections of artifacts, records and research materials. Dr. McIntosh's medical office building is also preserved at the site and a building housing agricultural implements, wagons and workshops was recently completed. The Boorman House is open on weekends from Memorial Day to Labor Day and hosts a special Christmas Open House beginning around Thanksgiving. The house is listed on the National Register of Historical Places. The Boorman House is located at 211 N. Union St., Mauston WI 53948. PH: 608 847-4142.
Sprague Bridge
This bridge spanning the Yellow River southeast of Finley WI in northern Juneau County has been listed on the National Register of Historical Places since 1995. Built in the early 1900s, the bridge is an excellent example of small bridge construction during that era.
Juneau County Courthouse
Originally built in 1925, the Juneau County Courthouse, with its marbled floors and richly paneled courtrooms, is listed on the National Register of Historical Places. It stands on a square in the center of Mauston, the county seat, and hosts many community activities including a farmers market during the summer. Juneau County Courthouse, 220 E. State St., Mauston WI 53948. PH: 608-847-9300.
Mauston Dam Site
This dam, built in 1842, powered a saw mill owned by M. M. Maughs. The lake formed behind the dam is Lake Decorah, named after a prominent Ho-Chunk family in the area. The mill was destroyed in a fire in 1864 and later rebuilt in another location by Benjamin Boorman.
Buckley Bridge and Mill
Drive out of New Lisbon on Hwy M past Kennedy County Park and you'll cross the Lemonweir River over the Buckley Bridge. The mill was built in 1850 and only its rock foundations can be seen today.
Marian Shrine
Over 50 years ago, a local farm woman claimed to have a vision of the Virgin Mary at this site in Necedah. The followers of this group have built 14 grottoes to depict saints and events in the life of the Holy Family. W5606 Shrine Rd, Necedah, WI.· (608) 565-2341.
New Lisbon Civil War Memorial
A statue erected by the GAR in 1897 stands in Heritage Park on Adams St in New Lisbon. The statue and an authentic Civil War cannon honor the dead from the War Between the States. Also in the park is a restored horse trough that once sat at Adams and Bridge St. in the center of town.
The Elroy Historical Society Museum
This quaint museum in downtown Elroy steps into the city's past when it was a bustling railroad town. Photographs and memorabilia from that bygone era include a working model railroad for the young at heart. The museum is open from 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm on weekends from May 1 to September 30.
Juneau County - Winding Rivers Library System
Elroy Public Library Hatch Public Library
501 Second Main Street 111 West State Street
Elroy, WI 53929 Mauston, WI 53948
608-462-2407 608-847-4454
Necedah Memorial Library New Lisbon Memorial Library
216 South Main Street 115 West Park Street
Necedah, WI 54646 New Lisbon, WI 53950
608-565-7979 608-562-3213
Wonewoc Public Library
305 Center Street
Wonewoc, WI 53968
608-464-7625
