Lac Vieux Desert Park - Source of Wisconsin River

ParkPhelps, Wisconsin

See the headwaters of the Wisconsin River in Phelps

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Lac Vieux Desert Park - Source of Wisconsin River is a park in Phelps where visitors can find the start of the Wisconsin River. Our team offers a walking path with a small wooden bridge and a historical marker at the river's source.

A
2 years ago

A very small park but a really cool spot to go to see the beginning of the Wisconsin River. Lil scenic spot and place for lunch.

Carolynn Devine
2 years ago

We just stopped here briefly so our friend could show us where the Wisconsin River starts. It was pretty cool to see.

Eric Schwister
2 years ago

Growing up near and often on the Wisconsin River in the southern part of the state, I enjoyed seeing the humble but lovely stream at the headwaters. There is a nice walking path across a small wooden bridge and down a forest path. Very understated but worth a short visit.

Nathan Flaminio
6 years ago

This is one of those places that, to me, seems like it should be a much bigger deal than what it is. It's nice that there's a park there, but it's very small, and not much to speak of. This could and should be made into something more. It's a beautiful area with a lot of history, but just kind of falls flat. Some signs pointing people to the area would help, as well as having a nice sign at the entrance. A shelter with more information about the history. Maybe a dock that goes out into the water a ways to get a better view. This is where the Wisconsin River begins to make its 420 mile journey to the Mississippi. I think just about everyone that lives in Wisconsin has done something on or near this river at some point in their lives. Make it a bigger deal!

Mark Beemsterboer
8 years ago

This little park features of one my favorite historical markers, celebrating the source of the Wisconsin River and the many people that lived and toiled on this land. The Wisconsin Valley Improvement Company provides care of the Wisconsin river, including this reservoir and park, under a charter and regulations by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources. The park is a short, level walk from a parking lot that can fit about a half dozen cars. The view of the Lac Vieux Desert (the lake) is fantastic. I also love gazing at the river, this humble stream that grows in breadth as it winds its way through Wisconsin to the Mississippi River. Outhouses, neat and tidy, typical of the WDNR, are available, though I'm not sure of availability during the cold season.

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