Mauston WisconsinATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Mauston, Wisconsin.
1. Castle Rock County Park
SCENIC WATERFRONT RECREATION
Castle Rock County Park offers visitors a beautiful beach area and boat launch facilities on the shores of Castle Rock Lake. The park is primarily focused on water activities rather than hiking or biking trails. Visitors can enjoy swimming, boating, and relaxing by the water during the summer months.
2. Red Ridge Riding Stable
HORSEBACK ADVENTURES AWAIT
Red Ridge Riding Stable provides memorable horseback riding experiences for visitors of all skill levels. The stable offers guided trail rides through the beautiful Wisconsin countryside. Riders can enjoy the peaceful natural surroundings while experienced guides ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
3. Gravity Box Brewery
CRAFT BREWS AND ATMOSPHERE
Gravity Box Brewery serves up handcrafted beers in a welcoming atmosphere in Mauston. Visitors can sample a variety of locally brewed craft beers while enjoying the friendly Wisconsin hospitality. The brewery offers a perfect spot to relax after a day of exploring the area's outdoor attractions.
4. Boorman House Museum
LOCAL HISTORY PRESERVED
The Boorman House Museum preserves the history of Mauston and Juneau County through exhibits housed in a historic building. The museum is named after Benjamin Boorman, a significant figure in local history who rebuilt the town's mill after a fire in 1864. Visitors can explore artifacts and displays that tell the story of the area's development and cultural heritage.
5. Woodside Sports Complex
PREMIER ATHLETIC FACILITIES
Woodside Sports Complex offers state-of-the-art athletic facilities for sports enthusiasts visiting the Mauston area. The complex hosts numerous tournaments and sporting events throughout the year, drawing teams and spectators from across the region. Visitors can enjoy watching or participating in various sports activities in this modern recreational facility.
6. Northwoods Orchard and Farm Market
FRESH LOCAL PRODUCE
Northwoods Orchard and Farm Market offers visitors the chance to enjoy fresh, locally grown produce and farm products. The market features seasonal fruits and vegetables harvested at peak ripeness, along with other homemade and artisanal goods. Visitors can experience the flavors of Wisconsin's agricultural bounty while supporting local farmers.
7. Riverside Park
RIVERWALK AND RECREATION
Riverside Park offers a scenic riverwalk along the banks of the Lemonweir River in downtown Mauston. The park provides beautiful views of the water and peaceful settings for relaxation and recreation. Visitors can stroll along the riverside paths, enjoy a picnic, or simply take in the natural beauty of this urban green space.
8. Mauston Farmers Market
LOCAL FLAVORS AND CRAFTS
The Mauston Farmers Market brings together local vendors selling fresh produce, homemade goods, and handcrafted items from May through October. Held on Saturday mornings on the Juneau County Courthouse lawn, the market features seasonal offerings like spring asparagus, rhubarb, and flowers for Mother's Day. Visitors can experience the community atmosphere while browsing farm-fresh fruits and vegetables, arts and crafts, and other local products.
9. Juneau County Courthouse
HISTORIC ARCHITECTURAL GEM
The Juneau County Courthouse, built in 1925, stands as an impressive historical landmark in downtown Mauston. Listed on the National Register of Historical Places, the courthouse features beautiful marble floors and richly paneled courtrooms that showcase early 20th century craftsmanship. The courthouse grounds host community activities throughout the year, including the popular farmers market during summer months.
10. Lake Decorah
TRANQUIL WATERS DOWNTOWN
Lake Decorah offers peaceful water recreation opportunities right in Mauston, formed by the historic dam built in 1842. Named after a prominent Ho-Chunk family in the area, the lake provides a scenic backdrop to downtown activities. Visitors can enjoy fishing, kayaking, and other water sports on this accessible body of water.
11. Elroy-Sparta State Trail
HISTORIC RAIL TRAIL
The Elroy-Sparta State Trail is a renowned 32-mile bike trail converted from a former railroad corridor passing near Mauston. Famous for its three rock tunnels, the trail was the first rails-to-trails conversion in the United States and attracts cyclists from around the country. Riders can enjoy the scenic countryside, small towns, and unique tunnel experiences along this historic route.
12. The Omaha Bike Trail
SCENIC CYCLING ROUTE
The Omaha Bike Trail provides cyclists with a scenic route through Juneau County's beautiful landscapes near Mauston. The trail follows an old railroad grade, offering a relatively flat and accessible path for riders of all skill levels. Visitors can enjoy the peaceful countryside views and natural surroundings while exploring this recreational corridor.
13. The "400" Trail
HISTORIC RAILWAY PATH
The "400" Trail offers outdoor enthusiasts a scenic recreational pathway through Juneau County named after a famous passenger train that once traveled the route. This rail-trail conversion provides a flat, accessible surface for walking, running, and cycling through beautiful Wisconsin landscapes. Visitors can enjoy the historical connection while experiencing the natural beauty of the area.
14. Necedah National Wildlife Refuge
WILDLIFE AND WETLANDS SANCTUARY
Necedah National Wildlife Refuge protects over 44,000 acres of wetlands, woodlands, and prairie habitats near Mauston in Juneau County. The refuge serves as an important habitat for numerous bird species, including the endangered whooping crane, as well as other wildlife like wolves, otters, and turtles. Visitors can explore hiking trails, observation platforms, and the visitor center to learn about conservation efforts and wildlife management.
15. Burr Oak Winery
LOCAL WINES AND VINEYARD
Burr Oak Winery offers wine enthusiasts a chance to sample locally produced wines in a picturesque setting in Juneau County. The winery produces a variety of red, white, and fruit wines made from grapes and other fruits grown in the region. Visitors can enjoy wine tastings, tour the production facilities, and relax in the beautiful surroundings while experiencing Wisconsin's growing wine industry.