The Foundation Trail loops around Black River Falls; the theater, museum and historic monument offer further perspectives on the area. There is also a 30-mile paddling route that begins at a canoe launch in the city, and cross-country ski trails in nearby Black River State Forest. You can focus on outdoor activity in the city, local culture and history, or cross-country skiing in the surrounding area.

Foundation Trail through the City and Park

At 4.1 miles, the Foundation Trail loops around Black River Falls. It follows the Black River and Town Creek, passes through Lunda Community Park and runs through the downtown area. You can use the route for walking, running or biking. The loop connects several aspects of the city along a single route: waterways, a park and downtown are all part of its course.

Black River Falls All-Abilities Playground is also located in Lunda Community Park. It offers sensory-based adaptive play technology and accessible paths. This is a different focus from the trail loop: here, the play area and its design take center stage, while the trail is about distance and activity.

Paddling and Cross-Country Skiing

Below the dam at Black River Falls, a 30-mile paddling trip to New Amsterdam begins at the canoe launch on Third Street. Its starting point, length and destination make it different from the Foundation Trail, which loops around the city. The two routes differ both in how you travel and in whether you plan a loop through Black River Falls or a paddling trip to a destination of its own.

For winter, Black River State Forest is near Black River Falls. It has 20 miles of cross-country ski trails groomed for skating and classic cross-country skiing. The trails cover a range of difficulty levels, from beginner to expert. Your preferred skiing style and skill level are therefore both relevant when choosing a route. As trail conditions and seasonal operations can change, check the current status before visiting.

Museum and Local History

The Jackson County Historical Society Museum is housed in a Carnegie Library built in 1915. Across two floors, it presents exhibits about early life in Jackson County. These include exhibits on the lumber and sawmill industries, as well as an exhibit on Native American culture featuring photographs, beadwork and leather objects.

On Water Street, the Historical Sawmill Memorial Monument commemorates the founding of Black River Falls in 1839 by Jacob Spaulding and the early lumber industry. The monument and museum have different focuses: the monument records the founding and early lumber industry, while the museum offers further insights into early life in the county and the exhibit topics mentioned above. The years refer to different things: 1839 to the founding of the city, and 1915 to the Carnegie Library building.

Theater and Historic Downtown

The Falls Players and Children's Theater perform at the Lunda Theater in the Middle School. Local concerts and touring performances are also held there. These stage and music events complement the area's historical themes. If you want to plan your stay around a particular performance, check the schedule in advance.

The Black River Falls Downtown Historic District is a historic area along the Black River with local shops and cafés. It offers a different scale from individual cultural attractions: here, the focus is on a part of the city where history, shops and cafés come together.

For the broader travel overview: Jackson County.