Trempealeau Mountain State Natural Area

Trempealeau Mountain is a cone-shaped rocky formation rising about 425 feet above the flat surrounding landscape, completely surrounded by the Mississippi and Trempealeau Rivers in western Wisconsin. The 90-acre natural area features marked hiking trails that wind through forests and meadows with diverse plant communities.

French explorers gave this place its name, meaning 'mountain whose foot is bathed in water', when they traveled the Mississippi River in the early colonial period. The area was inhabited by indigenous peoples for centuries before European contact, as evidenced by archaeological remains throughout the location.

The mountain served as a sacred place for Native American peoples who left behind burial grounds that visitors can still observe today across the area. This landscape held spiritual and practical meaning as a gathering point connected to the two surrounding rivers.

The natural area is most easily accessed by water routes through the rivers or by approaching from nearby roads on the surrounding mainland. Wear sturdy footwear for hiking on the forest trails and plan time to explore the different pathways at a comfortable pace.

This mountain stands as one of only three solid rock islands found anywhere along the entire Mississippi River system. Its geological formation makes it particularly rare and noteworthy among river landmarks.

GPS coordinates: 44.02140,-91.49420

Latest update: December 14, 2025 09:40