Easy Routes Through the Driftless Region
Slow Roads, Big Views
Southwest Wisconsin is one of the few parts of the Midwest where driving is actually interesting. The Driftless Region’s hills, river valleys, and winding ridge roads make it perfect for relaxed day trips.
These routes are easy to follow, don’t require complicated planning, and include worthwhile stops along the way.
Wisconsin River Scenic Drive
Muscoda → Spring Green → Tower Hill
Best For
- River views
- Short scenic stops
- Easy half-day outing
Easy Route (Stay Near the River)
Start: Muscoda, WI
- From Muscoda, take US-60 East toward Spring Green.
- Stay on US-60 for about 12 miles.
- Continue into Spring Green.
This route follows the Wisconsin River corridor with:
- open farm fields
- wide sky views
- classic river-bottom landscape
Scenic Route (More Hills and Ridge Views)
If you want the more “Driftless” experience:
- From Muscoda, take WI-80 North.
- Follow Highway 80 through rolling hills toward the Highland / Avoca area.
- Use County Road C or nearby east-bound county roads to head toward Spring Green.
- Continue into Spring Green.
This route includes:
- higher elevation
- winding roads
- ridge-top views
- quieter backroads
This is the route locals take when they want the drive itself to be the activity.
Key Stops Along the Route
Muscoda Riverfront
Easy access to the Wisconsin River with sandbars, fishing spots, and wide open views.
Good place to start the drive.
Nearby stops:
- Foggy North Coffee
https://www.foggynorthcoffee.com - Vicki’s Cozy Cafe for breakfast
Spring Green Downtown
Walkable main street with:
- cafés
- galleries
- small shops
- historic buildings
Good place to stretch your legs after the drive.
Tower Hill State Park
https://dnr.wisconsin.gov/topic/parks/towerhill
Historic river overlook with:
- hiking trails
- elevated views of the Wisconsin River
- one of the best photo spots in the area
Address
5808 County Road C
Spring Green, WI
Taliesin
https://www.taliesinpreservation.org
Frank Lloyd Wright’s home and studio. Even without a full tour, the surrounding countryside is worth the detour.
Optional Scenic Detours
Spring Green Preserve (“Wisconsin Desert”)
https://www.nature.org/en-us/get-involved/how-to-help/places-we-protect/spring-green-preserve
A rare sand prairie landscape that feels completely different from the surrounding hills.
County Road Ridge Drives
Many of the best views are on small county roads between Muscoda and Spring Green. If you see a road climbing a ridge, it’s usually worth the turn.
Tips for Scenic Driving in the Driftless Region
- Take county highways instead of major routes when possible
- Expect curves and steep grades
- Watch for farm equipment
- Fuel up before heading deep into rural areas
- Fall has the best color, but summer has the best river views
Make It a Half-Day Trip
This route pairs well with:
- coffee stops
- breakfast in Muscoda
- short hikes
- gallery browsing in Spring Green
- a river overlook at Tower Hill
The region is better experienced slowly than efficiently.
Related Guides
Best Fishing and River Access Points Along the Wisconsin River
Free Things To Do in the Driftless Region
Things To Do Near Me in Muscoda Wisconsin