Wilton WisconsinATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Wilton, Wisconsin.
1. Elroy-Sparta State Trail
HISTORIC RAIL TRAIL EXPERIENCE
The Elroy-Sparta State Trail is the first trail in the Rails to Trails system and runs through the heart of Wilton. Visitors can enjoy cycling through historic tunnels, with Wilton conveniently located between tunnels one and two. This famous trail provides a scenic route through the beautiful Wisconsin countryside, making it perfect for outdoor enthusiasts of all ages.
2. Kickapoo River
SCENIC PADDLING ADVENTURE
The Kickapoo River offers spectacular paddling opportunities with Wilton situated at its headwaters. Visitors can enjoy the winding waterway through the dramatic Driftless landscape, known for its unique geological features. The river provides excellent canoeing and kayaking experiences for all skill levels, with several rental services available nearby.
3. Wilton Village Campground
FULL-SERVICE OUTDOOR ACCOMMODATION
Wilton Village Campground provides an ideal base for exploring the area's outdoor attractions, with amenities including picnic shelters and a swimming pool. The campground hosts a popular Sunday-morning pancake breakfast served by the Lions Club from Memorial Day through Labor Day. Located just a few blocks from the bike trail, this clean, quiet facility offers all the amenities travelers need for a comfortable outdoor stay.
4. Kickapoo Wild Adventures
EXPERT RIVER EXCURSIONS
Kickapoo Wild Adventures offers guided excursions and equipment rentals for exploring the scenic Kickapoo River. Their highly-rated services provide visitors with everything needed for a memorable day on the water, including transportation and local expertise. The company has earned a perfect 5.0 rating from satisfied customers who appreciate their professional approach to outdoor adventure.
5. Titanic Canoe Rentals
PREMIER PADDLING OUTFITTER
Titanic Canoe Rentals provides high-quality equipment and services for exploring the Kickapoo River from Wilton. With an impressive 4.9 rating from previous customers, they offer reliable canoes, kayaks, and transportation for river adventures. Their local knowledge ensures visitors experience the best sections of this scenic waterway.
6. Drifty's Canoe Rental
FAMILY-FRIENDLY RIVER FUN
Drifty's Canoe Rental helps families and groups experience the beauty of the Kickapoo River with well-maintained equipment and friendly service. Their 4.7 rating reflects their commitment to creating enjoyable paddling experiences for visitors of all skill levels. Located near Wilton, they provide convenient access to some of the most picturesque stretches of this famous winding river.
7. Wildcat Mountain State Park
DRAMATIC RIVERINE LANDSCAPES
Wildcat Mountain State Park offers breathtaking views of the Kickapoo River Valley from its 1,000-foot ridges just a short drive from Wilton. Visitors can enjoy hiking trails, scenic overlooks, and horseback riding opportunities throughout this 3,600-acre natural preserve. The park's campgrounds provide an excellent base for multiple days of outdoor exploration in this unique geological region.
8. Kickapoo Valley Reserve
PRISTINE WILDERNESS EXPERIENCE
The Kickapoo Valley Reserve encompasses over 8,600 acres of protected wilderness near Wilton, offering hiking, hunting, fishing, and paddling opportunities. Its visitor center provides educational exhibits about the unique ecology and cultural history of this remarkable Driftless Area landscape. The reserve hosts regular events and programs that connect visitors with the natural and cultural heritage of the region.
9. Organic Valley Headquarters
SUSTAINABLE AGRICULTURE SHOWCASE
Organic Valley's Headquarters in La Farge offers fascinating tours of their eco-friendly facility near Wilton. Visitors can enjoy meals at the organic cafe and shop for products directly from this pioneering farmer-owned cooperative. The tours provide insight into sustainable farming practices and the positive impact of organic agriculture on rural communities.
10. Vernon Vineyards
SCENIC DRIFTLESS WINE EXPERIENCE
Vernon Vineyards offers wine tastings in a warm, inviting atmosphere overlooking the picturesque Bad Axe River valley near Wilton. Visitors can sample locally produced wines while enjoying panoramic views of the long upper Newton Valley. Free tours during open hours allow guests to learn about the winemaking process in this unique agricultural region.
11. Deke Slayton Memorial Space & Bicycle Museum
LOCAL HERO CELEBRATION
The Deke Slayton Memorial Space & Bicycle Museum honors the career of Wisconsin astronaut Donald Kent "Deke" Slayton while also celebrating cycling history. Located in nearby Sparta, the museum features exhibits on space exploration, aviation history in Monroe County, and the evolution of bicycles. This unique combination of themes reflects both the area's connection to the American space program and its prominence in recreational cycling.
12. Monroe County Local History Room & Museum
REGIONAL HERITAGE CENTER
The Monroe County Local History Room & Museum showcases the rich heritage of the region surrounding Wilton through engaging exhibits and interactive displays. Located in Sparta, this free-admission museum welcomes visitors to explore the area's fascinating past through artifacts and historical narratives. Tours are available for those seeking a more in-depth understanding of how this unique landscape shaped local culture and development.
13. Tunnel Trail Campground
TRAIL-ADJACENT OUTDOOR STAY
Tunnel Trail Campground provides convenient accommodations for cyclists and outdoor enthusiasts exploring the Elroy-Sparta Trail from Wilton. Located near the historic railway tunnels, this facility offers direct access to the region's premier recreational trail. Campers appreciate the strategic location and amenities that make it an ideal base for exploring both the trail system and nearby Kickapoo River attractions.
14. Amil's Inn Bed and Breakfast
COZY CYCLIST ACCOMMODATION
Amil's Inn Bed and Breakfast offers comfortable lodging for visitors exploring Wilton and the surrounding recreational areas. This charming accommodation provides a perfect rest stop for cyclists tackling the Elroy-Sparta Trail and paddlers exploring the Kickapoo River. Guests enjoy personalized hospitality in a convenient location that serves as an excellent base for discovering the natural beauty of the Driftless Area.
15. Wilton Candy Shop
SWEET LOCAL TRADITION
The Wilton Candy Shop delights visitors with homemade treats and nostalgic charm in downtown Wilton. Travelers along the Elroy-Sparta Trail often make this a must-stop destination for energy-boosting sweets and local flavors. The shop embodies the friendly, small-town atmosphere that makes Wilton a welcoming destination for outdoor enthusiasts exploring the region.