Coulee Experimental State Forest
Coulee Prairie
WDNR Photo
Coulee Experimental State Forest
Department of Natural Resources
3550 Mormon Coulee Road
LaCrosse, WI 54601
James Dalton
Property Manager
James.Dalton@Wisconsin.gov
(608) 785-9007
The Coulee Experimental State Forest is a unique entity in Wisconsin. It was purchased by the state to provide land for long-term research studies. The purpose of the studies was to investigate forest watershed problems and develop forest and land management practices designed to reduce water problems and improve forest yields. Not only is the forest managed for research, but forest production, wildlife habitat, and recreation.
The forest is characteristic of southwestern Wisconsin's "Driftless Area," which means the unglaciated portions. The name Coulee comes from an old French word meaning ravine. The name accurately describes the area, as the forest has many of these deep gulches or ravines formed by water erosion.
The Coulee Experimental State Forest is located approximately 15 miles east of La Crosse in La Crosse County. The forest consists of about 3,000 acres of public land open for hunting, cross-country skiing, hiking, and horseback riding, however, no camping or campfires are permitted. Primary game species include deer, ruffed grouse, squirrels, turkeys, and rabbits. Statewide hunting regulations apply. The forest is within Deer Management Unit 59D and Wild Turkey Zone 8. The habitat consists primarily of upland timber and open fields.
The forest has two parking areas. To access the eastern parking lot and ski trailhead: from Bangor take Hwy. 162 south to County Road II, turn right on the forest road at the top of the hill, parking area is at the end of the road. To reach the western side parking lot: take Hwy. 33 east from La Crosse, then north on County Road M, right on Russlan Coulee Road, just east of Barre Mills. Parking areas are at the end of the road.
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