Grandad Bluff, the tallest bluff in the area, has been a focal point of the La Crosse community. Limestone rock was quarried from the bluff and this served as a source of building material for many years.

May 23, 2013 · The lush, beautiful bluff that towered over the city of La Crosse was looking "burned over," as one local described it. The people of La Crosse soon realized that if they keep quarrying Grandad Bluff, there would be no more Grandad Bluff.

Oct 3, 2019 · Following several devastating downtown fires between 1857 and 1867, the city of La Crosse established local "fire Limits." These required that new buildings be constructed of stone or brick, so quarries began to spring up on the bluffs.

Grandad Bluff (also Granddad Bluff) is a bluff on the east side of La Crosse, Wisconsin. [1] It is approximately 590 feet (180 m) above the surrounding land and 1,183 feet (361 m) above sea level. Bliss Road provides access to the bluff.

Jul 29, 2023 · Quarrying at Grandad and neighboring bluffs began as early as 1865. At the turn of the century, however, it became evident that Grandad, by now a tourist attraction and city landmark, was at risk of permanent defacement.

Just a short 10-minute drive up a winding bluff road are legendary sights bursting of summer greenery or vibrant fall colors. Voted as “the most scenic view in the state” by Wisconsin Trails readers, this signature sight is a bucketlist must when visiting the La Crosse Region.

Jul 1, 2024 · The roots of La Crosse’s conservation movement trace back to 1909 when the community rallied to protect Grandad Bluff from industrial exploitation. Spearheaded by the forward-thinking Ellen Hixon, this grassroots campaign not only saved the iconic bluff but also laid the groundwork for future conservation efforts.

Mar 21, 2020 · This 15½-inch piece of iron railroad track represents a time when one of La Crosse’s landmarks was being drastically altered. The track was part of a dedicated tramway (also called a “dinkey railroad”) once used to quarry limestone from Grandad Bluff.

Jun 16, 2024 · With its panoramic views of La Crosse, the Mississippi River, and the surrounding valleys, Grandad Bluff is a photographer’s paradise. Sunrise and sunset are particularly popular times for capturing the natural beauty of the area.

May 16, 2018 · The 600-ft high bluff overlooks the city of La Crosse. The view of the Mississippi River Valley includes the three states of Wisconsin, Minnesota and Iowa. Wisconsin Trails readers voted this “the most scenic view in the state”.