One of America's most enduring symbols highlights the majestic Wisconsin River.
Once a crucial water highway for trappers and explorers in the frontier land, the Wisconsin River continues to delight outdoors enthusiasts with its natural beauty. From its start in northern Wisconsin, the waters of the Wisconsin River meander across the state for more than 400 miles, through state parks and rolling countryside. Along the route, the river passes dozens of river towns and cities, including Tomahawk and Wausau in the north and Wisconsin Dells and Portage in the south on its way to the Mississippi River near Prairie du Chien.
Paddlesports enthusiasts are treated to hundreds of miles of spectacular paddling waters through some of Wisconsin's best scenery, including the picturesque sandstone cliffs of the Wisconsin Dells. Anglers from across the country have discovered the rich fishing opportunities along the river's course, casting their lines for trophy bass, walleye, northern pike and catfish.
During the cold winter months, many of Wisconsin's waterways freeze over. But along the route of the Wisconsin River, the waters in many spots remain open thanks to hydroelectric dams and quick currents. These open waters provide the ideal spots for wintering bald eagles to fish the waters for food. The cities of Sauk City and Prairie du Sac (608/643-4168; www.saukprairie.com) have become a haven for wintering bald eagles and eagle watchers. Along the riverbanks, tall trees and rolling hills and valleys provide natural protection against the elements for perching eagles.
So many eagles winter on the bluff behind Wollersheim Winery in Prairie du Sac that the owner named one of his wines "Eagle White," and Sauk City and Prairie du Sac recognize their feathered friends during Eagle Watching Days, January 20 and 21.