The Best Summer Day Trips Near EC
It’s July—that point in the summer where you realize there is only one more month until move-in day and the start of another glorious semester at UW-Eau Claire. But for real, if you are looking for last minute and budget friendly summer fun, you’re in the right place. We’ve compiled a list of our favorite day trips near EC, so that you can easily hit the road and squeeze in some last minute fun.
- Devils Lake | Baraboo, Wisconsin
If you haven’t visited this state park, then you’re missing out. It’s actually Wisconsin’s most popular state park with 3 million visitors each year. While you can set up camp and stay for a bit, it’s also common for people to spend a couple hours or the entire day hiking the parkland and natural areas. It’s only a two-hour drive from Eau Claire.
2. Hoffman Hills State Recreation Area | Menomonie, WI
If you’re living in EC for the summer and don’t feel like taking a long drive, then Hoffman Hills is the perfect hiking spot for you. This recreation area is only about thirty minutes from Eau Claire. There are 707 acres of preserved and restored hills, wetlands, and prairie. BONUS: Hike up to the top of the tower and take in the scenic view from above.
3. Visit a Wisconsin Pizza Farm
Yep. That’s right. We said Pizza Farm. Did you know that there are several farm locations that have designated pizza nights throughout the summer? Grab your friends or significant other and take a short trip to one of these farms on a Friday, Saturday or Sunday this summer to spread out a blanket and get a fresh made wood-fired pizza. While you’re there, take in the scenic beauty of the countryside and say hello to some of the farm animals.
Check out Suncrest Gardens Farm in Cochrane, WI. It’s a little over an hour away.
Or head over to the Stone Barn in Nelson, WI. It’s about an hour away.
4. Elroy-Sparta State Trail | Elroy and Sparta, WI
If you prefer two wheels over four wheels, we’ve got just the ticket. Take a bike trip on the Elroy-Sparta State Trail. It’s a 32-mile rail trail between…you guessed it….Elroy and Sparta, Wisconsin. The trail has three rock tunnels and five small towns along the 32.5-mile route. It’s considered to be the first rail-to-trail in the United States. Flashlights and jackets are recommended for biking through the three railroad tunnels.
5. Visit the Antique Shops in Stillwater | Stillwater, MN
If you’re looking to take a break from hiking and biking, then take a day trip to the small city of Stillwater. It’s located on the scenic St. Croix River and is home to an array of fun activities. One of our favorites? Visiting the antique shops. Stroll through and take a look at all the interesting items and then make your way to one of the amazing restaurants nearby. If shopping isn’t one of your interests, then take a boat ride or even a gondola ride.
If you can’t make it to Stillwater this summer, no worries. This city is a great place to visit year-round. It’s only an hour and fifteen minutes away from Eau Claire!
6. Take a Tour of Crystal Cave | Spring Valley, WI
If your parents didn’t take you to Crystal Cave when you were little, then this needs to be on your bucket list. Crystal Cave is located in Wisconsin’s Pierce County. The cave was discovered in 1881 by brothers George and William Vanasse. It’s multi-level solutional cave formed in dolomite bedrock. You can take a one-hour tour of the cave to learn about the rocks and how cave formations develop, as well as the biology of bats….yep, we said bats. This is a great way to escape the heat and do something a bit out of the ordinary.
7. Visit the House on the Rock | Spring Green, WI
In 1945, a man named Alex Jordan dreamt of building a man-made retreat with an awe-inspiring view from atop a rock. Since then, the House on the Rock has evolved to include displays and collections of the exotic. The House on the Rock is a bit of an unusual attraction, but you won’t be disappointed by the view from the Infinity Room which extends 218 feet over the scenic valley.
Enjoy the remainder of your summer, Blugolds! Remember to take some time to stop and enjoy all the adventure that’s nearby. All of these trips are worth your while! Happy trails!!
