You don't need to be a rock climber to enjoy the hike up to Petenwell Bluff, where you will get a gorgeous view of the Wisconsin River feeding into Castle Rock Lake. It's a bit difficult to find, but there is a tiny, unmarked lot on 19th Avenue about 4 miles North of the cabin. You can find it on Google Maps by clicking the image above or searching "Parking Lot for Big Hill Hiking Trail". If you're up for a bit of a challenge, it is absolutely worth the trek.
If you're looking to get out into nature while you're here, there are some wonderful options nearby the cabin. Necedah National Wildlife Refuge is one of the best. With a handful of trails to hike, wildlife viewing is the single most popular recreational use of the refuge. The refuge is home to plants and animals that have nearly vanished from the rest of the state, including endangered blue butterflies, red-headed woodpeckers, and whooping cranes. If you would rather drive than walk, take the self-guided auto tour route, which highlights the most productive wildlife viewing areas in the refuge.
This is one of our favorite things to do around the cabin! We love to spend hours perusing the stalls for treasures. The market is ONLY open Saturdays from 8am-4pm in October, weather permitting. If you're looking for a pre-wedding activity, this is a great option! In case they're closed and you're still itching to go thrifting, we highly recommend the nearby Practical Cents Resale Shop at 402 S Main St in Adams or Affordable Treasures at 213 S Main St in Necedah.
How can you come to Wisconsin and NOT buy cheese? It's a must. And Carr Valley is a wonderful spot to stock up on fresh, squeaky cheese curds or fancy, aged cheeses and accompaniments. Free tours of the facility can take anywhere from 10-60 minutes, depending on factory activity. Tours are held Monday through Saturday from 9am-5pm. Like many shops in small Midwestern towns, Carr Valley is closed on Sundays.
Do you love a classic Wisconsin dive bar? You are going to love the Roadhouse. Even if you don't... Their broasted chicken dinner is honestly the best we've ever eaten. If you're in town a little early, it's an excellent option for top notch fish fry as well. Call ahead for a pickup order or settle in with a drink, play some pool, and enjoy!
This is such a charming little ice cream stand! But it's much, MUCH more than that. Imagine the concessions stand at the drive-in movie theater, but better. Cheeseburgers, hot dogs, pizza, gyros, nachos, popcorn, chili cheese fries... You name it. This place will satisfy all of your junk food cravings. Sadly, they are closed on Sundays, so pay them a visit on Friday or Saturday!
The "waterpark capital of the world" is just 45 minutes Southeast of the cabin! Although it'll probably be a little too chilly for swimming at Noah's Ark, you can still enjoy any number of indoor parks and attractions, including things like trampolines, axe-throwing, escape rooms, and miniature golf, as well as a number of museums. Not to mention, there are many outdoor activities to choose from, such as ziplining, horseback riding, or taking a tour on the area's famous amphibious vehicles, the Ducks.