Driftless Area Scenic Byway - Lansing

Explore prehistoric mounds, state forest trails and cold water trout streams. Lansing is a Mississippi River town that boasts an active downtown with restaurants, shopping and byway interpretive signage. Just above the main street is Mount Hosmer Look-Out and Park, which is named after Harriet Hosmer who, in 1851, ran barefooted from the river to the top of the 450-foot bluff in the park, winning a race against male crewmembers from a cargo steamboat. She was also one of the most famous sculptors in America at a time when most women were excluded from working in the arts. Mount Hosmer Park offers several overlooks with spectacular panoramic views of the Mississippi River Valley and the historic Black Hawk Bluff. Follow North 6th Street past the roadside pullout to the very top of Mount Hosmer to find parking, a large pavilion, and picnic areas. The upper lookout, located near the flagpole, has interpretive panels and viewing scopes to enhance your visit. The Driftless Area Interpretive Center, which has spectacular, one of a kind displays, overlooks and interpretive programming, is located just south of Lansing along the Mississippi River on the Great River Road National Scenic Byway.