Summer 2015
Today is Labor Day. School is starting and crops are being harvested. We all know what that means — fall is here. Or is it? As I write this I'm in my basement with a fan pointed at me. The house I'm renting doesn't have AC, so the basement is the only cool place to be. I've put some real effort into making this room cozy. This is the studio for Living La Crosse — my fortress (well, cave) of solitude.
It felt like spring lingered too long this year, but once summer arrived it was a comfortable one. Never too hot, and I was able to get out and play.
This was the first summer I explored Hixon Forest. How has this never happened before? For the uninitiated, Hixon Forest starts at the foot of the bluffs just east of town — a network of trails that winds up and down the bluffs with breathtaking photo opportunities around every corner. That's not the only breathtaking part. There's a good chance you'll see a trail runner sprinting through at a speed that seems physically unreasonable. I can't imagine the workout those hills provide. The trails are full of twists and turns and the occasional root to trip you up. Those trail runners have my highest admiration. Go visit — you won't be disappointed. More information on Hixon Forest here.
My fiancée and I also explored the beaches this summer, specifically Pettibone and Black River.
Pettibone offers a great view of downtown La Crosse from across the Mississippi. It's almost always packed on a hot day, and you'll never have trouble finding a pickup volleyball game. If you want an active beach primed for people watching, Pettibone is your spot. It's also right next to the Pettibone Boat Club — an excellent establishment with good food, drinks, and views.
Black River feels quieter. You can enjoy views of the beautiful houses across the river and a larger beach overall. The beach house feels cleaner, but lacks a bit of the character of the Pettibone facility. Black River is also incredibly convenient if you live on the north side, which made it my go-to this summer.
You can't go wrong with La Crosse in the summer. I haven't even touched on the festivals and great outdoor dining — that'll come later. But know that there are multiple fantastic and free options in this city. You won't regret getting out there.
The heat right now is a bummer. But as my family down south says — "don't you only get a couple weeks of summer anyway?" Remember, snow is coming. Then we'll long for these days.