Vernon County, located in the southwestern part of Wisconsin, is known for its picturesque landscapes of rolling hills, rivers, and valleys. The county was originally established in 1851 as Bad Axe County but was renamed Vernon in 1862, reflecting its “green” and fertile land (from the French word “ver”). Vernon County’s economy has historically been rooted in agriculture, with dairy farming, organic farming, and tobacco production being important components. Today, the county is also noted for its commitment to sustainable farming practices.
The county covers approximately 816 square miles and is home to around 30,000 people. Its county seat is Viroqua, and other notable communities include Westby, Hillsboro, and La Farge. Vernon County offers residents and visitors a blend of small-town charm, rich cultural heritage, and abundant outdoor activities, particularly around the Kickapoo River Valley.
Viroqua
Geography and History
Viroqua, the county seat of Vernon County, is located in the heart of the Driftless Region of southwestern Wisconsin. Founded in 1846, the city was named after a Native American woman who was said to be the daughter of a prominent chief. Viroqua developed as an agricultural and commercial hub, benefiting from its location in a region known for its fertile land and dairy farming. Over the years, the city has embraced a diverse economy, with a focus on organic farming, local businesses, and tourism.
Today, Viroqua is known for its vibrant downtown, featuring local shops, restaurants, and art galleries. The city is also home to Driftless Organics and other organic farms that contribute to its reputation as a center for sustainable agriculture. The rich cultural life of the city, combined with its natural beauty, makes Viroqua an attractive place for visitors and residents alike.
City Facts
- Nickname: “Heart of the Driftless”
- Area: 3.86 square miles
- Population: Approximately 4,500
- Elevation: 1,296 feet
- Time Zone: Central Time Zone (CT)
- ZIP Codes: 54665
- Area Code: 608
Transportation
Viroqua is accessible via U.S. Highway 14, which connects the city to La Crosse and other major Wisconsin cities. Wisconsin State Highways 27 and 56 also pass through the city, providing connections to nearby communities like Westby and Hillsboro. The nearest commercial airport is La Crosse Regional Airport, located about 40 miles to the northwest. Public transportation is limited, but the city’s road network makes it easy to travel by car, with plenty of scenic routes available.
Famous Landmarks
- Vernon County Historical Society Museum: Showcasing the history of Viroqua and Vernon County
- Temple Theatre: A beautifully restored historic theatre hosting live performances and films
- Driftless Area Education and Visitors Center: Offering exhibits on the unique geology and ecology of the Driftless Region
Westby
Geography and History
Westby, located just five miles north of Viroqua, was founded by Norwegian immigrants in the 19th century and has retained much of its Scandinavian heritage. Named after Ole T. Westby, an early Norwegian settler, the town developed as a farming community. Westby is especially known for its dairy farms, which have been the backbone of the local economy for generations. The town’s Norwegian roots are celebrated annually during the Syttende Mai Festival, a celebration of Norwegian Constitution Day.
Westby’s economy today is centered around agriculture, local businesses, and tourism. The town is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, thanks to its location near the Kickapoo River and the surrounding scenic countryside.
City Facts
- Nickname: “Little Norway”
- Area: 2.61 square miles
- Population: Approximately 2,200
- Elevation: 1,293 feet
- Time Zone: Central Time Zone (CT)
- ZIP Codes: 54667
- Area Code: 608
Transportation
Westby is located along U.S. Highway 14 and Wisconsin State Highway 27, offering easy access to Viroqua, La Crosse, and other regional destinations. While there is no major airport in Westby, the closest commercial airport is La Crosse Regional Airport, about 35 miles to the northwest. The town’s small size makes it easily navigable by car, and it serves as a gateway to the natural beauty of the Driftless Region.
Famous Landmarks
- Westby Coon Prairie Lutheran Church: A historic Norwegian Lutheran church and a symbol of the town’s heritage
- Snowflake Ski and Golf Club: Offering year-round recreation with skiing in the winter and golf in the summer
- Syttende Mai Festival Grounds: The site of the town’s annual Norwegian celebration
Hillsboro
Geography and History
Hillsboro, known as the “Czech Capital of Wisconsin,” is located in the eastern part of Vernon County. Settled in the mid-19th century by Czech and German immigrants, the town quickly developed into a thriving agricultural community. Hillsboro is particularly known for its dairy farms and cheese production, a tradition that continues today.
Hillsboro’s rural charm, combined with its cultural heritage, makes it a unique place to visit. The town celebrates its Czech roots with an annual festival, and its picturesque setting in the Baraboo River Valley offers a peaceful, small-town atmosphere. Agriculture remains the backbone of Hillsboro’s economy, with dairy farming, organic agriculture, and local businesses playing key roles.
City Facts
- Nickname: “Czech Capital of Wisconsin”
- Area: 1.66 square miles
- Population: Approximately 1,400
- Elevation: 1,089 feet
- Time Zone: Central Time Zone (CT)
- ZIP Codes: 54634
- Area Code: 608
Transportation
Hillsboro is accessible via Wisconsin State Highway 33, which connects the town to nearby cities like Reedsburg and La Crosse. Hillsboro’s rural location means that most residents rely on personal vehicles for transportation. The nearest commercial airport is La Crosse Regional Airport, located about 55 miles to the northwest. Hillsboro’s local roads and proximity to scenic byways make it an ideal starting point for exploring the Driftless Region.
Famous Landmarks
- Hillsboro Brewery: A local craft brewery known for its Czech-inspired beers and community events
- Czech Heritage Center: Celebrating Hillsboro’s Czech immigrant history with exhibits and cultural events
- Baraboo River Trail: A popular trail for hiking, biking, and enjoying the scenic beauty of the Baraboo River Valley
La Farge
Geography and History
La Farge is a small village located in the northern part of Vernon County, along the Kickapoo River. Established in the mid-19th century, La Farge developed as a rural farming community. The village is best known for being the headquarters of Organic Valley, one of the largest organic farming cooperatives in the United States, which has helped put La Farge on the map as a leader in sustainable agriculture.
In addition to its agricultural roots, La Farge is a gateway to the Kickapoo Valley Reserve, a 8,600-acre nature preserve that offers hiking, fishing, camping, and other outdoor activities. The village has embraced eco-tourism and continues to promote sustainable living through its connection to Organic Valley and the reserve.
City Facts
- Nickname: “Home of Organic Valley”
- Area: 0.92 square miles
- Population: Approximately 750
- Elevation: 810 feet
- Time Zone: Central Time Zone (CT)
- ZIP Codes: 54639
- Area Code: 608
Transportation
La Farge is located along Wisconsin State Highway 131, providing access to nearby communities like Viola and Viroqua. The village’s rural setting means that most transportation is done by car, and the local road network provides easy access to the surrounding countryside. The nearest major airport is La Crosse Regional Airport, about 50 miles to the northwest. La Farge is also close to the Kickapoo Valley Reserve, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
Famous Landmarks
- Organic Valley Headquarters: The home of one of the largest organic cooperatives in the country
- Kickapoo Valley Reserve: A vast nature preserve offering outdoor recreation and conservation education
- La Farge Farmers Market: Featuring local organic produce and handmade goods from the region’s farmers and artisans
Ontario
Geography and History
Ontario, a small village located on the Kickapoo River, is known for its outdoor recreation opportunities, especially kayaking and canoeing on the river. Ontario was settled in the late 19th century as an agricultural community, but today it is more commonly recognized as a gateway to the Wildcat Mountain State Park and the scenic Kickapoo Valley.
Ontario’s economy is largely driven by tourism, with visitors flocking to the area for its natural beauty and outdoor activities. The village has become a popular spot for camping, hiking, and river sports, attracting nature enthusiasts from across the region.
City Facts
- Nickname: “Gateway to Wildcat Mountain”
- Area: 0.79 square miles
- Population: Approximately 550
- Elevation: 840 feet
- Time Zone: Central Time Zone (CT)
- ZIP Codes: 54651
- Area Code: 608
Transportation
Ontario is located along Wisconsin State Highway 131 and is easily accessible by car. The village is close to Wildcat Mountain State Park, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The nearest major airport is La Crosse Regional Airport, located about 50 miles to the northwest. Ontario’s rural location means that most visitors travel by car, and the scenic roads around the village provide beautiful drives through the Driftless Region.
Famous Landmarks
- Wildcat Mountain State Park: Offering hiking trails, campsites, and panoramic views of the Kickapoo River Valley
- Kickapoo River: A popular destination for canoeing, kayaking, and fishing
- Ontario Depot Museum: A small museum preserving the history of the village and its role as a river town