The Driftless
Where Glaciers Never Reached
ABOUT THIS REGION
Where Glaciers Never Reached
The Driftless Area encompasses Vernon, Crawford, Richland, and southwestern Wisconsin the region that glaciers somehow missed. The result is a landscape of steep ridges, deep valleys, and some of the most challenging gravel riding in the Midwest. This is old Wisconsin, where limestone bluffs rise 400 feet above winding gravel roads.
From ridgetop farms with 50-mile views to quiet valleys where Amish communities still work the land with horses, The Driftless offers serious climbing, thrilling descents, and a landscape that looks more like Appalachia than the Midwest. These roads will test your legs and reward you with vistas found nowhere else in Wisconsin..
Cave of the Mounds
A rare limestone cave system formed over millions of years beneath the unglaciated hills of the Driftless area.
What Makes The Driftless Special
Epic Elevation Gain
Challenging climbs and thrilling descents
Ridgetop Views
Sweeping vistas of the unglaciated landscape
Amish Country Roads
Horse-drawn buggies and traditional farming communities
Limestone Bluffs
Unique geology untouched by glaciers
explore trails
Where The Country Roads Begin
Historic river towns and hilltop villages with deep roots in Wisconsin's
agricultural heritage.
Trail listings coming soon.
Trail Towns in The Driftless
Historic river towns and hilltop villages with deep roots in Wisconsin's
agricultural heritage.
La Crosse
A Mississippi River city offering bluff views, riverfront paths, and extensive regional trail connections.
Viroqua
A vibrant small town with local food, rolling hills, and access to scenic Driftless backroads
Prairie du Chien
Lancaster
Darlington
Dodgeville
A regional hub near state parks offering services and routes through classic Driftless terrain.
Ready to Ride?
Wisconsin's gravel trails are waiting and we're here to help you discover the ride of a lifetime.
Find Trail Regions
Browse our regions to discover routes perfect for your skill level.
Plan your visit
Download trail guides, check conditions, and find lodging.
Explore Events
Check out gravel biking events across the state.