Watch Bald Eagles Along The Mississippi River Near Westby Wisconsin

Watch Bald Eagles Along the Mississippi River with a short Drive from the Westby House Inn

Experience paradise on the Mississippi River! Just minutes from the Westby House Inn you can enjoy eagle watching at its best along the Mississippi River. There are many view areas between Stoddard and Prairie du Chien, Wisconsin. The Great River Road, a Federal Scenic Byway, is your best travel route. 

Several events are planned along the route. Bald Eagle Appreciation Day is celebrated February 27 -28, 2015. This event offers live bald eagle and raptor programs, educational exhibits, and birding experts will provide lectures.  In Ferryville, Wisconsin they celebrate the bald eagle with Bald Eagle Day on March 7th.  The lock and dams along the River are also popular viewing sites. Visit five lock and dam locations between Winona, Minnesota and Lynxville, Wiscon

Romantic Valentine Weekend with Dinner at Wisconsin Bed and Breakfast in 2015

Return to a simpler time... Come experience a delectable Valentine's dinner at the Westby House Inn.  We serve the finest meal specially prepared for the pleasure of your palate. Delicious cuisine, an elegant atmosphere, pleasant wait staff, and comfortable, relaxing surroundings will make your Valentine's dining an enjoyable and unforgettable experience. At the Westby House, we attend to the comfort and hospitality of our guests, and search out the highest quality ingredients.  We seek to compliment these gracious surroundings with the food we serve. Serving Friday and Saturday, February 13 &14, 2015 and reservations are required. Our 4-course menu can be viewed on the Restaurant page of our web site.

Stay at the Inn too! Choose from well appointed rooms to romantic whirlpool rooms and fireplaces. Check room availability.  

Apple Season in Southwest Wisconsin Brings Fall Leaves

Folks are thinking apples already! Reservations are coming in every day with visiting the apple orchards on the list of 'things to do' when they get to the Westby House Inn.   With the mild summer and cool temps it is hard to believe apples and fall leaf color are just around the corner.

Orchards are plotted across many acres within the Driftless Area of Southwest Wisconsin and La Crescent Minnesota.Visiting these orchards gets a person in the mood for baking fresh pies, or canning applesauce to enjoy throughout the winter. I have personal experience growing up in both of those kitchen activities. It was fun once the many bushels of apples were peeled.

A leisure 35 minute drive from the Inn to Gays Mills Wisconsin will put you in the center of the largest and most concentrated apple orchard area in the Tri-States. The apple harvest starts with early apples in August, and continues through mid-October. Apple salesrooms are open every day and some until Christmas. The Annual Gays Mills Apple Festival is the last full weekend in September.  Enjoy the orchard experience from Highways 61 and 171 east of Gays Mills.

Another usual question we get asked  is "just when is the best time for fall color around here"?  I use to tell how soon it would be peak by a 75+ year old maple that stood so tall on property, but is no longer. Best guess would be any time in the first two weeks in October. You will see color, how much depends on the unpredictable wind and rain.

Think apples today as we may be thinking snow sooner than we care too!! The apple orchards and fall leaves await your exploring.

God's Country is Right Here In Vernon County Wisconsin

Vernon County - Invigorates the Mind and Soul 

Unblemished and unencumbered. Unmistakeable and unforgettable. Truly Wisconsin's undiscovered country.  Every Westby House Inn guest that travels through this area speaks those words. 
Why you ask? It seems they discover the therapy of nature deep in the valleys and along the ridge tops of Vernon County all nestled in the Driftless Region of Southwest Wisconsin.  It is a region so peaceful and quiet, so breathtaking and beautiful, it is no wonder why it is a place to invigorate the mind and soul with nature.

Our celebrated Mississippi River, ever-winding Kickapoo River, rugged hills, scenic farmland, majestic forests, tranquil back roads and crystal clean air will give you an opportunity to be in the moment while developing a special connection to what so many call God's country.
Explore the Kickapoo Valley Reserve and Wildcat Mountain State Park for hikes, or travel down the Kickapoo River by way of a canoe, pedal parts of the Elroy-Sparta Bike Trail, or roll the windows down and visit the many villages and towns filled with shops, antique stores, dining spots and more.
The area is at your fingertips when you stay with us. Come explore by booking your stay with us now and get your mind and soul invigorated before summer passes you by.

Driftless Area Painted through River Sojourn

Here is a wonderful You Tube video of how a painter shares her experiences of the Driftless Area through paintings. Watch and then plan your trip with a stay at the Westby House Inn. 

Spring Season Outdoor Adventure at the Kickapoo Valley Reserve near Westby

There is not a better way to get the winter blues out of the system then to think Spring!
Everyone is ready to enjoy some Spring like weather after this very long and cold winter Southwest Wisconsin and the country have experienced this year.

Our Rhododendron in full bloom!

So start exploring and planning the many fun and educational Springtime adventures you will find close to the Westby House Inn.

The Kickapoo Valley Reserve in La Farge should be your first stop. On Saturday, March 22, 2014  Jean Napp will have a presentation "Falling in Love with the Night Sky".  After a short indoor presentation, you can experience the amateur astronomer in you by stargazing outdoors. Jean, who is President of the Starsplitters of Wyalusing, will share the story of how she became a stargazer and tell you about the stars, constellations, clusters and nebula of the March sky. Time is 7:00 pm - 10:00 pm. $5.00 fee. Registration deadline: March 21st.  608-625-2960.

On April 26, 2014 at the Reserve will be a Spring Ephemerals Hike. The rich mesic woods of Wisconsin's Driftless Area provide on of the best places to experience the beauty of spring. Delicate spring ephemerals who only make a brief appearance while canopy above them  is still just budding out, and learn more about the natural communities that are home to these plants.

Conservation biologist, Darcy Kind will take you on this rich encounter with Mother Nature. Time: Saturday 1:00 pm to 3:00 pm. $5.00 Fee and registration deadline is April 25th. 608.625.2960.
Here are a
few more ways to experience Spring at the Reserve:
Saturday, March 08, 2014

Creative Communities Art Demonstrations & Sale

 Saturday, March 22, 2014

The Call of the Frog

The Wisconsin DNR Frog and Toad Survey invites you to a presentation at the KVR Visitor Center to listen and learn the 12 Wisconsin frog calls. Participants will get an opportunity to “speak” like a frog and information as to how to become a Citizen Scientist for the WI Frog and Toad Survey. Children are encouraged to attend. This free program starts at 9 am.
More information ben.johnston@wisconsin.gov

 Wednesday, April 09, 2014

64 Wisconsin State Parks in 365 Days
Waterfalls, wildlife sightings, big waves, lighthouses, spectacular rock formations, tense moments, and unbelievable adventures were part of Jonathan Ringdahl's quest to visit all 64 of Wisconsin's state parks in one year. Jonathan will also show some of his contest-winning photography of some of the most beautiful places in Wisconsin. Presenter: Jonathan Ringdahl. Refreshments and socializing at 6:30 pm. Talk begins at 7:00 pm. Sponsored by the Kickapoo Valley Reforestation Fund and the Friends of the Kickapoo Valley Reserve. Programs are free and open to the public. No registration required.

Valentine Dinner at Westby House Inn Wisconsin Bed and Breakfast

Romantic Valentine Weekend at Westby House Inn  includes Dinner

Return to a simpler time... Come experience a delectable Valentine's dinner at the Westby House Inn.  We serve the finest meal specially prepared for the pleasure of your palate. Delicious cuisine, an elegant atmosphere, pleasant wait staff, and comfortable, relaxing surroundings will make your Valentine's dining an enjoyable and unforgettable experience. We will be serving Friday and Saturday, February 14 &15, 2014.
At the Westby House, we attend to the comfort and hospitality of our guests, and search out the highest quality ingredients. Simplicity, elegance, and freshness... for the pleasure of your palate. We seek to compliment these gracious surroundings with the food we serve.

Stay at the Inn too! Choose from well appointed rooms to romantic whirlpool rooms and fireplaces. Check room availability.  
Call Marie to reserve your Valentine's table for Friday or Saturday of Valentine's weekend.

Sample Menu of our Valentine's Dinner
HORS D'OEUVRE
Parmesan Chicken Spinach Cakes
Hearts of Romaine & Mixed Greens Salad

ENTREE
Char-grilled 6 oz. Filet Mignon, with Choice of:
Shrimp Scampi or Parmesan Encrusted Salmon
Herb Roasted Potatoes with Dill Cream
Fresh Sauteed Vegetable Du Jour

DESSERT
Chocolate Romance Crumb Cake and Fresh Strawberries

Special Heart Memento Gift for Each Lady

Price: $40.00 per person. excludes taxes and gratuities.

Cocktails, Wine List and Champagne are Available at Your Table
Meals served with Breads and Butter, and Coffee Service

Kickapoo Valley Reserve Winter Events

The Kickapoo Valley Reserve is a winter haven for the outdoor enthusiast!  Located near Wildcat Mountain and just 23 miles Northeast of the Westby House Inn, there is something for everyone, including Willow Basket Weaving for the crafty person..  Here is their list of events from December through February.


December 21, 2013 – February 1, 2014 – Snowshoe Hike Series

Attend a series of slow paced winter adventures that will include lots of outdoor discoveries. Participants will have the chance to try traditional and modern snow shoes. Kid- and adult-sized snowshoes will be available for use. Saturdays, December 21, 2013; January 4 & 18, February 1, 2014. Instructors: Ken and Michelle Workowski, snowshoe enthusiasts and owners of The Nature of Things. 1–4 pm. Fee: $5/Person/Hike; $4.50/KVR Friend/Hike; $2.50/kids 12-16/Hike. Registration deadline: December 14. To register call 608-625-2960 or email kickapoo.reserve@krm.state.wi.us. Kickapoo Valley Reserve, S3661 State Hwy 131, La Farge, WI 54639. 

January 11, 2014 – Winter Festival

The KVR Winter Festival is a wonderful family event that highlights fun winter activities.  Activities include skating, sledding, skiing, archery, snow sculpture, ice cave hikes, face painting, horse-drawn bobsled rides, snowshoe exhibit, Tristate Malamute Club Sled Dog Race and weight pull, mutt race, and much more.  La Farge Lions Club hosts an annual chili and bread contest for the public.  Kickapoo Quick Auction of goods and services produced in the Kickapoo Valley with proceeds benefitting the KVR Education Program.  To view the full schedule visit http://kvr.state.wi.us/winterfest. Kickapoo Valley Reserve, S3661 State Hwy 131, La Farge, WI 54639. 

January 19, 2014 – Cross-Country Ski Workshop

Learn proper classic and skate cross-country ski techniques, including basic stride-and-glide, fall recovery, proper pole positioning, turning techniques, and speed control. Workshop also welcomes experienced skiers who want to brush up on their skills. Open to all levels. Instructor: Dan Goltz. 1-4 pm. Fee: $15/Person; $13.50/KVR Friend; $7.50/Kids 12 and under (with adult) Registration deadline: January 11. To register call 608-625-2960 or email kickapoo.reserve@krm.state.wi.us. Kickapoo Valley Reserve, S3661 State Hwy 131, La Farge, WI 54639. 

January 25, 2014 – Dam Phunski

The Dam Phunski is a scenic classic and freestyle cross country ski course along the scenic Old Highway 131 Trail. Proceeds benefit the Kickapoo Valley Reserve Education Program. Courses include a 1k loop for youth, a 5k point-to-point for juniors and phunskiers of all ages, and a 10k point-to-point for adults. For more information or to register visit http://kvr.state.wi.us/phunski. Kickapoo Valley Reserve, S3661 State Hwy 131, La Farge, WI 54639.

February 8, 2014 – Ice Cave Hike
Visit several rarely visited ice caves and frozen waterfalls. Participants will learn some geology, biology, and history of the Kickapoo Reserve along the way. The hike is rated moderate to difficult. Dress for the weather and don’t forget your camera! Instructor: Chuck Hatfield, amateur geologist and ice cave enthusiast. 12:30-4 pm. Fee: $5/Person; $4.50/KVR Friend; $2.50/Kids 12-18. Registration deadline: February 1. To register call 608-625-2960 or email kickapoo.reserve@krm.state.wi.us.

Kickapoo Valley Reserve, S3661 State Hwy 131, La Farge, WI 54639. 

February 15, 2014 – Winter Willow Basket Weaving Workshop
Come join us for a day of weaving in willow. From locally harvested willow shoots, we will form and weave one of a couple varieties of baskets that have helped people to gather and store their precious food for thousands of years. Learn how to identify and harvest willow, how to create a balanced form, and keep the weaving tight. Bring a sack lunch and your favorite knife or pruners (a few pairs will be provided). Expect to spend a full day weaving and come away with a unique creation. Please pack a sack lunch. Instructors: Nicholas Gale and Kindred Wazee have been weaving willow baskets for over 10 years. Seeking versatility in willow craft as a functional wilderness skill, they have made willow baskets for many practical purposes. 9 am–4 pm. Fees: $50/person; $45/KVR Friend. Materials Fee: $10 payable to instructor. All materials provided. Registration deadline: January 31. To register call 608-625-2960 or email kickapoo.reserve@krm.state.wi.us.  Kickapoo Valley Reserve, S3661 State Hwy 131, La Farge, WI 54639. 

Christmas Greetings with Winter Events at Kickapoo Valley Reserve

Christmas is the time of year we reflect on the who,what and where.  Everyone has a Christmas story from years gone by like Ralphie in A Christmas Story.  Some of the things Ralphie reflected on when telling is story brought laughter to every face. Famous lines like "My little brother had not eaten voluntarily in over three years". "I want an Official Red Ryder Carbine-Action Two-Hundred-Shot Range Model Air Rifle!"  Don't  forget, "Oh my god, I shot my eye out!" 
So what's your Christmas story? Is it family, the gift giving, volunteering at a charity event, awaiting Santa or sharing the true meaning of Christmas.  Whatever it is, celebrate the wonder of it all, the every joy of it, the fun of it all. Wishing all a wonderful Christmas worth telling!  Marie & Mike,                                                    A Christmas Story of 16 years of innkeeping at the Westby House Inn.

Check out these winter events at the  Kickapoo Valley Reserve during the winter.  

Cross-Country Skiing

The Kickapoo Valley Reserve maintains approximately ten miles of groomed cross-country ski trails, for both classic and skate skiing. The five miles of the Old Highway 131 Trail provide an excellent opportunity to experience the solitude and beauty of the Reserve.  Other groomed trails include the Dam Trail, Old Harris Road Trail and Star Valley Road.  Additional trails may be groomed as time permits. The more adventurous are welcomed to make their own tracks into the wild.  NOTE:  Skiers may not ski on the snowmobile trail.  Call the Reserve Visitor Center for a winter trail map and directions to ski trails, (608) 625-2960. Ski Trails are also available at Wildcat Mountain State Park.

Snowmobiling

A segment of Wisconsin's self-funded snowmobile trail system winds its way through the Reserve.  A local snowmobile club grooms and maintains the trail from December 15 through March 31, snow cover permitting.  Enjoy the Reserve's scenic ridges and valleys by snowmobile, the only motorized vehicle allowed to operate on Reserve lands.  Snowmobile enthusiasts are required to stay on the designated snowmobile trail. Map of Winter Trails in KVR (pdf)

Snowshoeing

Snowshoe enthusiasts are welcome to explore the hidden wonders of the Reserve. There are not designated nor groomed snowshoe trails. NOTE: Please avoid walking on the snowmobile trail or on the cross-country ski tracks.  Enjoy the unbeatable scenery - visit the ice caves, and get the work-out of a lifetime!

For all winter sports enthusiasts, a reminder that the Reserve does not provide any water or toilet facilities except at the Visitor Center. Trails are not maintained during the winter months, with the exception of the snowmobile trail and cross country ski trails. The Reserve Visitor Center is open Monday through Saturday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., for information and assistance. Visitors are asked to pay attention to changing weather conditions while enjoying the Reserve's wintry landscape.

All winter sports enthusiasts are required to purchase a trail use permit before venturing out. Snowmobile trail users are only required to purchase a $4/day vehicle parking permit or display of annual pass, if parking in the Reserve's signed 'parking permit required' areas. Snowmobiles simply passing through the Reserve are exempt from fees.

La Crosse Rotary Christmas Light Display a Must See

Visit La Crosse Rotary Lights and stay at Westby House Inn
 by Marie Cimino, Westby House Inn

 Christmas lights are always a fascinating sight during the holiday season and the Rotary Lights display at Riverside Park in downtown La Crosse are beyond fascinating. Each and every child and adult  is pulled into the million plus light display each December. You can drive through the park or walk it to get yourself in the spirit.   Admission is non-perishable goods and/or cash donations that support the local food pantries.

The Park opens at 5:00 p.m. daily and gates will close after the last car in line at 10:00 p.m. with the following exceptions:

Christmas Eve..................5 to 9:00 p.m.

Christmas Day..................5 to 9:00 p.m.

New Year's Eve .......5 p.m. to 1:00 a.m.

Santa is in the park everynight from 5 pm until 8 pm or as long as kids are in line. Santa begins on Friday, Nov. 29th (right after the opening ceremony) and will be in his Santa House through Monday, Dec. 23rd.
Treat yourself with a Gift to the La Crosse's Rotary Lights and a stay at the inn. Book any room available, any day of the week, and mention you saw this blog post to receive our Gift to You of 25% off your room reservation!!!! Sorry, new reservations only. Not valid with gift cards/certificates or any other offer.

Purchase Wisconsin Bed & Breakfast Gift Certificates

by Marie Cimino, Westby House Inn

Make it easy shopping this year by giving bed and breakfast gift certificates to your friends, family and, maybe yourself this Christmas season. The Westby House Inn in Westby, Wisconsin has certificates you can purchase online through there web site- www.westbyhouse.com. 

 Turn around time is seamless too! You can print it right away are have it emailed to the recipient.Certificates are valid for one year from date of purchase. 
So make it easy on Santa and check out our web site than click on the Check Availability where you can make your purchase.   

Holiday Craft Fair Near Westby WI B&B

50th Annual Holiday Fair in La Crosse Wisconsin

Get Set...Ready.....SHOP!!!..... this annual Holiday Fair in downtown La Crosse is on November 21-24, 2013.  This huge event is the most spectacular craft show of the season. The La Crosse  Center is decorated with a holiday theme and holiday music through out the Center. Rudolph will make appearances and pictures with Santa Claus go on daily. Door prizes are given each hour every day.  This is family event or a girl's getaway!  Hours are Thursday & Friday; Noon- 9pm,  Saturday; 9am -5pm, Sunday; 10am -3pm. You will need some rest after the Fair with a overnight stay at the Westby House Inn!
Sunday: 10:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.

Rhubarb Juice Popular at Westby House Inn Bed and Breakfast

Rhubarb Juice is a Hit at the Westby House Breakfast Table

My friend Danika brought me a large grocery bag of just harvested rhubarb.  Now, I love rhubarb in any fashion or form, but as a juice, that's new to me. So here is recipe as posted on our Recipe page of the web site. Easy and very enjoyable!

 Rhubarb Juice
This recipe comes from the cookbook  Marathon County Back to Basics Cookbook. Marathon County is located in the center of Wisconsin and is Marie's hometown County.  Rhubarb was always plentiful on the farm where rhubarb crisps, pies, coffee cake, jelly and jam were made. You name it my Mom put it in everything.  Now, Juice is something she did not think of making with rhubarb!   This pretty pink beverage can be a base for punch or slush too.    Can be canned or frozen for enjoyment  throughout  the seasons.

2 lbs. Rhubarb, about 9-12 ribs  - cut into 4-5 inch lengths
5 cups water
Bring to low boil, cook until rhubarb are tender. Strain to remove all pulp. Discard pulp.

Add to the juice:
1/4 cup sugar per cup of juice (you can adjust the sweetness as you see fit.)  Spendia can be used also.
Bring to boil to dissolve sugar.
Cool juice, then refrigerate. 

For Punch- add 3/4 cup fruit juice (lemon, grapefruit, etc ) to each cup of sweetened juice. Just before serving add 1 quart of gingerale or white soda.
For Slush- To 2 quarts of Heated sweetened juice add 3oz. package of strawberry gelatin and  dissolve. Let cool. Add 2 cups vodka. Pour into freezer containers and freeze stirring occasionally until well chilled.  To serve- 1/4 cup slush in glass, fill glass  with 7-up.

New Winery Opens Near Westby House Inn

Branches Winery Opens just Minutes from Westby House Inn

Branches Winery has opened up off Highway 14/61 and just minutes from the Westby House Inn in Westby.
The rural Westby winery is offering four wines made from their grown grapes.  Complimentary wine tastings and winery tours are available Friday, Saturday and Sunday. 
The wines are their Explorer made from Marquette grapes, Coulee Crisp -La Crescent Grapes, Vine Dance a sweet wine from Edelweiss grapes and the fourth wine is Flying Geese made with Frontenac Gris grapes.  Gene and Therese Bergholz, owners of the winery, chose the local favorite Cranberry to highlight in their Celebration Berry wine. 
A must visit during any stay at the Westby House Inn.
Here is an article on the winery that ran in the La Crosse Tribune .

Norwegian Syttende Mai Events Center Around Westby B&B

 Westby House Bed and Breakfast Inn is Center Stage during Syttende Mai!  

Viking Ship

Car Show on Saturday

Sunday's Parade

Whenever you hear or read about Norwegian history, Syttende Mai is a topic most visited.  Ever wonder how to pronounce it...??? It's simple, just say  "Soot in my eye!!  Now that you can say it, here is some history on Westby's annual festival. The 2013 weekend dates are May 17,18,19, 2013.

Westby's Annual Syttende Mai Festival commemorates Norway's Independence Day. In December 1813, Denmark ceded Norway to Sweden. Therefore ending a 434 years of union between Norway and Denmark. The Norwegian Constitution was signed on May 16, 1814 and was ratified by Christian Frederik on May 17th.  To this day, May 17th is celebrated as the Norwegian national day. Thus Syttende Mai - 17th of May.  The day Norway achieved independence for Denmark. However, on July 27, 1814, the Swedes attacked and Norway was forced to surrender. The union was formally dissolved in June 7, 1905, when Norway declared itself independent of Sweden.

The Norwegian immigrants brought the tradition of celebrating Syttende Mai with them to America and the first Westby festival was officially organized and celebrated in1969. To this day the three-day celebration features Norwegian traditions, heritage and good old fashion ethic food. A bicycle tour, 5 k walk/run, arts & crafts, kiddie parades and children's games, are just part of the fun.  Arts, Crafts and Vintage Commercial Tents are ongoing Saturday and Sunday. Church meatball dinners, rommegrot, and lefsa are in abundance during the weekend; along with great local entertainment and Saturday's outstanding car and bike show and huge parade on Sunday! 

Visit the festival web site at www.westbysyttendemai.com for a complete list of activities and more information on events and the Saturday entertainment of  "Tina & Lena" Singers with Zingers! 

The Inn is the perfect location to overnight stays when you attend the festival. Arrive and park your car on Friday and don't need to get back in the car until you depart!    Dates of Festival - May 17 -18-19, 2013

"Mange takk min ven, ha en behagelig reise" - Many thanks my friend, have a pleasant journey!

Viist

Westby House Inn Can Cure Your Spring Fever

Victorianne Room

Atrium Room

Westby Room

Spring Fever got you going crazy?  Then come to the Westby House Inn for the cure! As one guest experienced, "the B&B is the unique blending of a tastefully decorated grand historic home, lovingly restored and maintained, with the comforting kindness of hosts who treat you like family and nourish you with delectable meals. It's a must-stay whether you happen to be in the beautiful southwest Wisconsin region, or make it a destination."  To help plan your time here the DriftlessWisconsin.com visitor's site has things to do and places to explore along with great dining ideas. If  fly-fishing is a way of relaxing we have over 200 miles of Class A trout streams just minutes from the inn. Hike Wildcat Mountain or the trails through the Kickapoo Valley Reserve. Spring brings Farmers Markets in Viroqua and the Amish start to gear up for sales of the crafts they worked on over the winter.  For the foodie folks, check out the many artisan cheese shops, the organic food co-op and Driftless Organic Cafe.
With so many things to do and explore you better start planning a are return trip in the summer and fall!  You can always check for room availability on our web site with just a click on the Check Availability button. Think Spring and you maybe here before you know it!!

Enjoy Late Summer or Fall Hikes in Wildcat Mountain State Park near Westby Wisconsin

Many of the Westby House Inn guests plan a hike, or two, in Wildcat Mountain State Park located just outside of Ontario, Wisconsin. The 23-minute drive in itself from the inn is worth the trac. Four trails are marked throughout the park which consists of high ridges and deep valleys with vistas of the Kickapoo River, prairies, and eroded sandstone formations. The Old Settlers' Trail is a 2.5-mile long trail once used by early settlers of the area. Along its course, the trail crosses a footbridge, passes through three separate pine plantations and wild creatures that call this 3,500-acre park their home. Wildflowers are abundant in the rich humus of the wooded slopes on the bluffs of the Hemlock Nature Trail. This 1.3-mile trail begins beside the Kickapoo River with markers to call attention to the special life forms of this ancient valley.

For a short, level hike at a leisurely pace be sure to take in the Prairie Trail and observe seasonal changes in the prairie. Big bluestem grass and wildflowers surround you while standing in the prairie with breathtaking vistas of the Kickapoo Valley . The woodchip path from the prairie through the woods is a more adventurous hike to the Observation Point. Just off County Road F, south of Highway 33,is the Ice Cave Picnic Area. This small, quiet picnic area includes a short hiking trail leading to a rock formation. The eroded sandstone formation appears to be a cave with approaching. But upon closer inspection you will find a shallow depression with a spring running over the upper edge. In the winter, the spring freezes into a giant icicle. Lush green vegetation and colorful wildflowers are a delight along the trail. For a enjoyable hike, bring along a camera, binoculars and a field guidebook if you can. Dress appropriately in sturdy, comfortable clothing and footwear.

Annual Coon Creek Trout Fest Near Westby House Inn

Coon Valley, Wisconsin will host the annual Coon Creek Trout Fest on Saturday, June 16, 2012. Though this is only the Second Annual, it will be a show stopper. More vendors, more entertainment and more fly-fishing fun! Here are just a few:  Classic Car Show, Bobber Race at 6:00,  Kids games, kids trout derby, feature films on the Driftless Area and the Watershed.  Fly-fishing and fly-tying lessons from 11 am to 4 pm, Bean Bag Tournament, and live music from 1 until 11pm. Enjoy the sounds of John Ward, The Freezers and Sellout at different times throughout the day. This is a FREE event with gates opening at 10:00 am. Visit their web site at www.cooncreektroutfest.com for a detailed schedule of the event.

Spend a great day in a quaint valley and the famous Coon Creek, than respite up on the ridge in Westby at the Inn! Perfect treat for Father's Day weekend.

Westby's 44th Annual Syttende Mai Festival Happens around the Westby House Inn

Whenever you hear or read about Norwegian history, Syttende Mai is difinitely a topic visited.  Ever wonder how to pronounce it...??? It's simple, just say  "Soot in my eye!!  Now that you can say it, here is some history on Westby's annual festival. The 2012 weekend dates are May 18,19,20, 2012.

Westby's Annual Syttende Mai Festival commemorates Norway's Independence Day. In December 1813, Denmark ceded Norway to Sweden. Therefore ending a 434 years of union between Norway and Denmark. The Norwegian Constitution was signed on May 16, 1814 and was ratified by Christian Frederik on May 17th.  To this day, May 17th is celebrated as the Norwegian national day. Thus Syttende Mai - 17th of May.  The day Norway achieved independence for Denmark. However, on July 27, 1814, the Swedes attacked and Norway was forced to surrender. The union was formally dissolved in JJune 7, 1905, when Norway declared itself independent of Sweden.

The Norwegian immigrants brought the tradition of celebrating Syttende Mai with them to America and the first Westby festival was officially organized and celebrated in1969. To this day the three-day celebration features Norwegian traditions, heritage and good old fashion ethic food. A bicycle tour, 5 k walk/run, arts & crafts, kiddie parades and children's games,  are just part of the fun.  Church meatball dinners, rommegrot, and lefsa are in abundance during the weekend; along with great local entertainment and Sunday's outstanding car and bike show and huge parade! 

Viist www.westbysyttendemai.com site for a complete list of activities and more information on events and the Saturday entertainment by Nashville songwriter and local native, Cora Rose.

The Inn is the perfect location to overnight stays when you attend the festival. Arrive and park your car on Friday and don't need to get back in the car until you depart!    Dates of Festival - May 18 -19-20, 2012

"Mange takk min ven, ha en behagelig reise" - Many thanks my friend, have a pleasant journey!

Mississippi River Great River Road Gets "Most Scenic Drive" Vote

Plan a trip along the Great River Road any time of year and include a overnight at the Westby House Inn.

Recently voted and earning a "Most Scenic Drive in the USA" designation by Huntington Post the Great River Road National Scenic Byway lies only 23 miles from the Westby House Inn.  Running between the Mississippi River and the mighty bluffs, a drive up or down the Byway is so beautiful and awe inspiring. Never touched by glaciers, the Driftless Area is characterized by its beautifully topography. Forested hillsides reach down to the river and valleys.  Although La Crosse is the largest Wisconsin city on the Mississippi, the river's impact can be seen in every community within 30 miles. The great diveristy of the area means something to suit the taste of every visitor. Canoe, hike, bike, sip coffee, read a book, wade a trout stream makes a trip well worth it.