Alma was carved into the bluff by Swiss settlers. The city stretches 7 miles but is only 2 streets wide – and only 1 street for most of that 7 miles. Main Street lies just above river level, and Second Street is carved out a bit farther up the bluff.

Leisurely Walk
1 Mile Each Way

Alma, Wisconsin is famous for its “stair step streets.” Staircases were originally put in place to connect Main Street and Second Street with the intention that they would be turned into roads as the town developed. Eventually, it was determined that the grade was too steep to construct safe roads, especially due to our harsh Wisconsin Winters. Four connecting streets were eventually built, but eleven historic staircases remain intact. Their combined 788 steps make quite a city hike!

13 Historic Stair Step Streets
788 Steps
Great Cardio Workout

Alma, Wisconsin offers both aggressive and leisurely hikes. Mossy Hollow is a gentle trail, found off of Cemetery Road, whereas Buena Vista, starting on Second Street, gets steep in parts. Both trails lead to breathtaking views of the Mississippi River Valley. If you're not up for the hike, drive to the top of Buena Vista via Country Road E, which you'll find at the south end of town. Enjoy the 500-foot bluff top park with its swing set, pavilion, grills, and valley views.

Buena Vista Road
(Off County Road E)
Alma, WI 54610
608.685.3330
Open daily, dawn to 11pm
cityalma227@gmail.com

Alma, Wisconsin offers both aggressive and leisurely hikes. Mossy Hollow is a gentle trail, found off of Cemetery Road, whereas Buena Vista, starting on Second Street, gets steep in parts. Both trails lead to breathtaking views of the Mississippi River Valley. If you're not up for the hike, drive to the top of Buena Vista via Country Road E, which you'll find at the south end of town. Enjoy the 500-foot bluff top park with its swing set, pavilion, grills, and valley views.

The Alma Chamber of Commerce Visitor Center is located in the Wings Over Alma Building on Main Street. Let us know if you have any questions or comments. We are happy to provide more details. Please email us 24/7 or call us to learn more.