The drive
Wisconsin Highway 35 follows the Mississippi River south from Hager City, where it crosses US 63, to Alma. Along the way it runs through the small river communities of Bay City, Maiden Rock, Stockholm and Pepin. Lake Pepin, a broad stretch of the Mississippi, runs from Bay City to Reads Landing, Minnesota.
Wisconsin 35 runs along the Wisconsin side of the lake, just inland from the railroad, and is part of the Great River Road and a National Scenic Byway. Across the water, US 61 does the same on the Minnesota side.
The drive is 41.4 miles and takes about 55 minutes. The curves are gentle, and the road climbs 1,500 feet in all.
Along the way
- Hager City (US-63)
- Maiden Rock
- Stockholm
- Pepin
- Alma
Good to know
- Wisconsin 35 is the Wisconsin side of the Great River Road; US 61 is the Minnesota side.
- Both are National Scenic Byways, so this drive pairs with US 61 across the lake.
- Check 511 Wisconsin for current closures.
Open all year, weather permitting. Roads close for snow, fire, storms and repairs: before you set off, check 511 Wisconsin.
Questions about this drive
How long is Highway 35 from Hager City to Alma?
Wisconsin 35 from Hager City to Alma is 41.4 miles and takes about 55 minutes.
Is Wisconsin Highway 35 part of the Great River Road?
Yes. Portions of Wisconsin 35 are part of the Great River Road, and it runs along the Wisconsin shore of Lake Pepin.
Which towns are on Highway 35 along Lake Pepin?
Bay City, Maiden Rock, Stockholm and Pepin are on the lake, and the road ends at Alma.
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More drives near here
Distance, time, elevation, curves and intensity are from Carve's route. Checked 2026-10-28.