N8327 Amsterdam Prairie Road
Holmen WI 54636
GPS: latitude 44.021240N, longitude -91.305982W
The McGilvray Bridges are located in the Van Loon Wildlife area, also known as the McGilvray Bottoms, in the northwest corner of La Crosse County, about 3.5 miles northwest of the Village of Holmen, Wisconsin. The property extends five miles south of the Black River, from Highway 53/93 Hunter’s Bridge to New Amsterdam on County XX. The entire trail from the parking lot to the Sixth Bridge and back measures 3.7 miles.
La Crosse, WI
You may reach the Bridges by traveling north on Hwy 53 past Holmen. Just after the highway turns from 4 lanes to 2, turn left onto Old Hwy. 93. This will take you past the Van Loon Animal Hospital. Proceed to the end of Old 93 then turn right onto Amsterdam Prairie Road. Approximately a half a mile down this road, on the left, you will find a parking area for the Van Loon Wildlife Refuge and the McGilvray Road. This is the location of the entrance to the 7 Bridges trail.
Galesville, WI
You may reach the Bridges by traveling south on Hwy 53. As soon as you pass Drugan’s Country Club on your left, take the first RIGHT turn onto Amsterdam Prairie Road. Approximately a half a mile down this road, on the right, you will find a parking area for the Van Loon Wildlife Refuge and the McGilvray Road. This is the location of the entrance to the 7 Bridges trail.
Trempealeau, WI
Drive east on Hwy 35. Shortly after crossing the bridge you will come upon Hwy XX which is to your right, and Amsterdam Prairie Road to your left. Turn LEFT onto Amsterdam Prairie Road. Approximately one and a half a miles down the road, on the left, you will find a parking area for the Van Loon Wildlife Refuge and the McGilvray Road.
WATER ACCESS to Van Loon Wildlife Area
A boat landing is located at the West Channel Black River Bridge on Highway 35.A primitive canoe launch is located at Hunter’s Bridge on Highway 35/53.
Link to WI Dept. of Natural Resources map for Van Loon Wildlife Area
Hiking trails in the Van Loon Wildlife Area.
Click on map to enlarge.