Driftless, kind of an odd combination of words if you really stop to think about it. I mean we all know what a drift is, and well less of it?
How did it get to be a thing and how do you define Driftless? If most people had to define it, they would be hard press for a quick answer, simply because one doesn’t exist. It’s highly unlikely that it ever will. It’s never going to be known for a fancy zip code like 90210, and its residents are all right with that. Driftless is more than a geological term for the beautifully unglaciated area. It’s a vibe, a way of thinking, a lifestyle. A place where simple things still happen where a wave and smile are freely shared amongst strangers in passing. It’s home to artisans, free thinkers, organic farmers, sustainable agriculture, and many small communities every few miles.
The small communities are as interesting and diverse as the land they are located on. On any given weekend you will hear and see things that make you aware that you are in the Driftless region. You may hear the distant clip-clop of an approaching Amish buggy or see the parade of canoer’s paddling down the meandering Kickapoo river. A random drive down a back road you will see the occasional abandoned one room schoolhouse, or a rural country church. You will see endless rolling hills, green fields, and the exposed ancient seafloor that we see as pre-Cambrian sandstone bluffs. It is almost like you can look back in time.
If you want an up-close encounter with the Driftless region perhaps the best way to experience it is through the many parks and bike trails that crisscross this special place. Nothing brings the magic of the area to life like a bike ride down an old railroad track that has been repurposed for bike traffic or hiking a bluff trail to view a scenic overlook that makes the hike all worth it. Another way to get the full experience is on the waterways. Especially, the well-known Kickapoo river. Whether you are there for a lazy float, a serous paddle, or to wet a line, you can’t go wrong.
If it’s artisanal flavors you are looking for, search no more. This area is dotted with many small breweries, wineries, and distilleries, apple orchards, local coffee houses, or small cheese shops. All with flavors you can’t find anywhere else. Perhaps, nothing pairs better than some local wine with Morel Leek cheese.
Part of the charm of this region is that it has never been touched by icy glacial fingers during any of the ice ages. The high bluffs protected the land from the incursions of glacial ice. As the ice slowly advanced to the edges of the area plants and insects found refuge here. Because of that, it’s still home to numerous rare and endangered plants and insects. Some of them have adopted to live on very specialized habitats that are unique to this area. For instance, the Northern Monkshood flower has adapted to this area, and thrives on the cold shady north facing bluffs. It is never found this far south. This incredible landscape has drawn people to it for many millennia. Evidence can still be found in the many Petroglyphs, mounds, and stone relics dating back thousands of years.
The defined borders of the area are rather large occupying areas in four states. The largest segment resides in Wisconsin. It can also be found in portions of Minnesota, Iowa, and Illinois. In total is covers 24,000 square miles.
There are no defined signs announcing that you have crossed over into the Driftless territory, but the rugged landscape will be your first clue.
There is no word count that can do this unique geography justice. I hope this small glimpse has spoken to that place in you where wanderlust resides and encourages you to experience this amazing place firsthand.
-Vince Aiello