Mount Simon Park

Located in the picturesque city of Eau Claire, Mt. Simon Park is 49 acres of pure natural beauty. It is one of the highest points in this part of the USA, which is why locals affectionately call it "Top of the World." From here, you can enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the Chippewa River and the mirror-like surface of Dells Pond.

The park harmoniously combines wild nature and modern infrastructure. You will find well-kept green lawns for relaxation as well as steep sandstone cliffs that serve as a reminder of the region's ancient history. Its high rating among travelers confirms that this place is ideal for those seeking solitude or, on the contrary, active outdoor recreation.

The park's erosive cliffs give it a special atmosphere, where an attentive visitor might spot seashell fossils. Mt. Simon Park is open year-round, offering guests unique landscapes depending on the season: from the vibrant greens of summer to snowy winter panoramas.

For details regarding pavilion reservations or organizing events at Mt. Simon Park, you can use the official contact information for the city services.

There is something for everyone at Mt. Simon Park. Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate hiking along trails of varying difficulty that wind through the cliffs and lead to the best vantage points. Special benches are set up at the top of the hill—perfect for photoshoots, especially at sunrise or sunset when the city and river are bathed in golden hues.

For sports fans, there is a popular 9-hole disc golf course, as well as lighted volleyball courts and professional baseball fields. If you prefer relaxation by the water, use the boat launch at Dells Pond to set out in a kayak or a small boat.

Families with children will appreciate the modern play areas and spacious picnic pavilions equipped with grills and electricity. Young explorers will find it interesting to look for ancient shells in the sandstone, proving that an ocean once covered this area.

Getting to this scenic spot in Eau Claire is easy. The main entrance is located at 1100 Addison Ave, and you can also enter the grounds from Madison Street or Birch Street. For those traveling by private vehicle, free parking is provided right at the park entrance.

If you enjoy walking, the journey from the city center will take some time: head north on S Barstow St, turn onto E Madison St, and then turn onto Addison Ave. You can also use a local taxi or public transport—buses stop on the streets closest to the park, Addison Ave and Hastings Way.

Thanks to its proximity to the center, visiting Mt. Simon Park is easy to combine with other city sights by bicycle or a walking tour along the river.

The history of Mt. Simon Park dates back to the early 20th century. Old photographs from that era captured this hill as an important landmark, offering views of the developing city and the smoking chimneys of the first factories. This confirms that the site has always been a popular viewpoint for Eau Claire residents.

From a geological perspective, the park area is unique. It is composed of what is known as Mount Simon Sandstone and the Eau Claire Formation. These ancient rocks hold amazing secrets: fossils of tiny seashells are often found in the stones. This is indisputable proof that millions of years ago, a vast ocean stretched over modern-day Wisconsin.

Over time, this natural landmark has evolved into a full-fledged recreation area. Professional baseball fields were established here, becoming the home arena for Babe Ruth Baseball youth leagues. Thus, the park harmoniously blends the planet's ancient history with the city's active social life.

To leisurely enjoy everything the park has to offer, it is recommended to set aside 2 to 4 hours. This is enough time to climb to the observation decks, take a short walk along the trails, and relax by the water.

If you plan to have a full picnic, play disc golf, or spend time at the playgrounds with your family, your visit could last until midday. In any case, even a short visit for panoramic sunset photos is well worth the time.

The park welcomes visitors daily. Official operating hours are from 4:00 AM to 11:00 PM, allowing you to enjoy both an early sunrise and a late evening under the starry sky.

The site is accessible year-round; however, before your trip, it is recommended to check the official city website for information regarding potential events or temporary restrictions in certain recreation areas.

The area surrounding the park offers many interesting locations that help visitors better understand the region's architecture and history. A stroll through the nearby neighborhoods will reveal historic mansions and picturesque bridges.