Southwest Wisconsin stands apart for its rare terrain shaped by the absence of glacial activity. The Driftless Region features steep ridges, limestone bluffs, hidden valleys, trout streams, and farmland rolling across dramatic hillsides. It is one of the most scenic and geologically unique places in the Midwest.
The area appeals to travelers who love scenic drives, outdoor recreation, farm-to-table food, wineries, and historic small towns. Communities celebrate local culture with festivals, art studios, and farmers markets supported by generations of family farms. Biking routes, river paddling, and hiking trails highlight the region’s natural beauty. The Driftless Region offers a quiet, refreshing escape full of charm and character.
| City | Population (estimate) | County |
|---|---|---|
| Baraboo | 12,106 | Sauk County |
| Dodgeville | 4,868 | Iowa County |
| Lancaster | 3,907 | Grant County |
| Monroe | 10,800 | Green County |
| Mount Horeb | 8,091 | Dane County |
| New Glarus | 2,266 | Green County |
| Platteville | 11,900 | Grant County |
| Portage | 10,581 | Columbia County |
| Prairie du Chien | 6,100 | Crawford County |
| Prairie du Sac | 4,420 | Sauk County |
| Reedsburg | 10,093 | Sauk County |
| Richland Center | 4,908 | Richland County |
| Sauk City | 3,580 | Sauk County |
| Viroqua | 4,500 | Vernon County |