Reedsburg offers an intriguing contrast: the 400 State Trail follows the Baraboo River valley, while artworks and historic buildings offer insights into the city’s history. This lets you choose different priorities when deciding on a destination—nature and outdoor activities, local history, or a mix of both.
Along the Baraboo River
The 400 State Trail runs along the Baraboo River valley from Elroy to Reedsburg. The 22-mile route between the two places follows a former railroad corridor and is used as a trail for biking, horseback riding and snowmobiling. Sections of the former rail line run parallel to the river, so biking and paddling can be considered together as activities for a trip.
There is also a specific place in Reedsburg to enjoy the water: South Park is on the south side of the city and provides access to the Baraboo River for activities such as fishing and canoeing. The options along the river therefore vary depending on what you’re looking for: the trail offers a route along the former railroad corridor, while the park provides access to the river and the activities mentioned there.
Walking trail and wetland
Popple Nature Area is Reedsburg’s notable natural area and has a walking trail. It is west of Webb Park and the swimming pool. A different landscape can be found at Smith Conservancy on the southwest side of the city: a wooded wetland on the Baraboo River that supports numerous wildlife species. While Popple Nature Area offers a specific opportunity for walking with its trail, Smith Conservancy is characterized by its riverside habitat.
If you’d also like to explore the surrounding area, Pioneer Log Village, operated by the Reedsburg Historical Society, is 3 miles east of Reedsburg on Highway 23/33. The 52-acre site offers a glimpse into the lives of early families in and near a small Wisconsin town. It is a separate destination in the surrounding area, not part of the natural areas described in Reedsburg.
Art and architecture in Reedsburg
Ruminant (The Grand Masticator) stands in Harvest Park: a retired John Deere combine harvester with 34 backlit stained-glass panels depicting agricultural scenes. The work was publicly presented to the City of Reedsburg in October 2014 and is a permanent work of public art as well as a city landmark. Its unusual combination of agricultural machinery and colored glass makes it a striking example of Reedsburg’s public art.
The history of the city’s early economy is also reflected in its streetscape: the Woolen Mill / Baraboo River Mural recalls the history of Reedsburg Woolen Mill and its importance to the city’s early economic development. The former Stolte Hotel, now Cornerstone, offers a different perspective on local architecture. The Stolte family built the restored commercial building in 1896 in the Queen Anne style.
Brochures for the Historic & Architectural Walking Tour of Reedsburg are available at the Chamber of Commerce and the public library. The 90th Meridian Marker and the Bicentennial Monument are also notable historic landmarks. The pink quartzite marker stands on the East Main Street boulevard near Laurel Street. It was dedicated on October 14, 1963, and marks Reedsburg’s position as the only city in Wisconsin directly on the 90th meridian. The Bicentennial Monument stands on the north side of the Main Street Bridge: its 45-foot-high spire represents the logs used to build the early village.
More things to do during your stay
Reedsburg also has options for a range of interests beyond the river and architecture. The CAL Center is a 600-seat performing arts theater. Reedsburg Country Club has an 18-hole golf course. Nishan Park has four purpose-built pickleball courts and also hosts the Reedsburg Butterfest each June during June Dairy Month. If you’d like to plan your trip around the festival, check the specific event dates.
This selection can help you shape your trip around your interests: the 400 State Trail and river activities set the scene for outdoor pursuits, while art, architecture and the CAL Center showcase other sides of the city. This gives you a way to assess Reedsburg through its specific places and themes before planning your stay.
Explore more destinations: Plain, Baraboo, Prairie Du Sac, Spring Green
Return to the main travel overview: Sauk County.
