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Norskedalen Nature and Heritage Center

June 9, 2019 - June 15, 2019

Trip Navigation

Norskedalen is a Nature & Heritage Center dedicated to preserving the Norwegian Culture and the Natural environment found in Wisconsin’s Driftless Area. Nine+ miles of established hiking trails need maintenance after two years of massive flood damage. In addition, there are three new trails ready for development. New trails are following old logging trails and deer paths; while the ‘trail’ is naturally marked at this point, there will be heavy work involved in clearing brush and trees. Established trails needing maintenance will involve reshaping in some instances and clearing debris in others. Lodging for the week will be in historic buildings, although modern plumbing has been added! One goal for the week will be to rejuvenate the existing trails so that guests may enjoy the natural beauty of Norskedalen’s setting. A second goal will be to clear and establish at least one of the three trails marked for new use.

To get a wonderful history lesson about Norskedalen and see the beautiful scenery, check out this video.

Host

Norskedalen Nature & Heritage Center

Accommodations

Cabin/Lodge

Hiking/Access

Day hiking up to 1 mile each day

Project Rating

Moderate

Minimum Volunteer Age

15

Maximum Group Size

10

Area and Attractions

The La Crosse Area is located on the Mississippi River with ample opportunity for canoeing/kayaking, boating and more. Hiking not only at Norskedalen but throughout the bluffs on Human-Powered Trails is a favorite for everyone! Antique shopping in historic malls, Historic sites both urban and rural abound in surrounding communities. As a travel destination for Western Wisconsin, you'll find a wide variety of beautifully natural settings, both commercialized and un-commercialized. Norskedalen provides settings that are far enough from town, remote in many ways, and yet close enough to enjoy a day in town or on the river.

Accommodations Description

Volunteers will stay in The Paulson Cabin, a 150 year old hand-hewn log cabin, actually lived in by Per & Anne Paulson and their family. The cabin has a loft with a double bed and a single bed. The main living area has two queen size futons. There is a roll-away bed in the basement that can be used as well. Camping is generally not allowed at Norskedalen; however for this group, we would allow two tents in the yard of the Paulson Cabin if so desired. We have added a modern kitchen and bathroom to the cabin! The stairs in this home are steep, as that was the way it was built. It is delightfully decorated with Norwegian rosemaling and other treats. This would be the main guest area for your group. A second site is available if needed. The Farmhouse, another historic home with modern plumbing, has room for another 6 guests. One queen bed on the main floor, 4 twin beds on the second floor. There would not be camping options on this property. Laundry, wifi, bed linens, cookware and dishes are supplied at both facilities. Both properties also house museums with historic buildings, and are fairly remote in their locations. Volunteers should bring their own bedding/sleeping bags, towels, and personal gear.

Travel

Airport pickup provided from La Crosse Municipal Airport. Airport pickup and dropoff times will be sent to registrants when the trip is confirmed.

Location

Norskedalen Nature & Heritage Center
N455 O. Ophus Road, Coon Valley, WI 54623 United States
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