This was an amazing way to start the day! It was absolutely beautiful to watch the sunrise lighting up the river valley. Access to overlook is so easy that it's perfect for many. The hiking trail down to second street also had a great views, and was not at all as steep as one would expect. Beautiful area and so many great roads to see. If on motorcycle I would definately recommend Blank Hill road, and Alligator Slide was pretty too. Just go slow, watch for loose gravel. Beautiful ride!
From the park, you are 525' or more above the river. On a clear day, you can see 20 miles, from Lake Pepin in the north to nearly Fountain City in the south! We live about 15 miles from the park and visit frequently.
The city of Alma is an interesting town built on the hillside next to the Mississippi River. The park is 1153 ft up, up, up! A short walk from the parking lot gives you an incredible view. You can see for miles.If you bring small children -- do NOT let them run ahead, there are no fences.
Buena Vista is a must-visit when in Alma! My favorite way to get to the top and see the beautiful views is from the hiking trail off of 2nd street. It is about a 1 mile hike from 2nd Street up to the park on a nice trail - not too steep, and there are benches along the trail just in case you need to stop for a break. You can also drive up to the park if you're not up for the hike. Either way, it's worth the trip!
Take hwy. 35 to Alma WI then County Rd E up to Buena Vista Park/Overlook. It is 500' above the Mississippi River & Alma-the view is breathtaking-bring camera.
It's hard to beat the view we had from Buena Vista Park. We were fortunate the day was clear without much haze. It provided a great view of the Mississippi, the lock and dam, the town of Alma and the Wisconsin and Minnesota countryside. The park itself appears very well kept and the shelter must be available for family events. Watch carefully for signage and don't believe the mileage shown. After the stop at the park, the Danzinger Vineyards and Winery is accessible from the same road, watch for their sign.
A great park for families, lots of picnic spaces but the real highlight here is the amazing views overlooking the town of Alma and the big river. A great spot for snapping photos, picnicking and hiking down to the town from atop the bluff. I would have given it an excellent rating, but the toilets were so foul you could smell them from the parking lot.
Went there today on a cold autumn day, but still worth braving the cold wind. Fantastic views, 500 feet up the bluff, took many pictures. I can imagine, summertime and BBQ's, we went there on a cold day, so that shows the effort worth taking at any time of the year.
If you are going through Alma, WI you must take a quick trip up the hill to see this park...AMAZING...plus a little further down the road there is a winery!
This is one of the most beautiful spots overlooking Alma and the Great Mississippi River. Lots of space, picnic areas ,and a trail to town.