Hike the World’s Largest ‘M’

Written by Dee Harris

Located between Belmont and Platteville, near the border of Lafayette and Grant counties, you will find the World’s Largest ‘M’ on the hillside of Platte Mound, facing southwest. The ‘M’, which stands for ‘mining’, is a tribute to the rich mining history in the area, including the first mining college in Wisconsin, now known as University of Wisconsin-Platteville. The ‘M’ measures 241 feet tall and 214 feet wide and is open to the public daily, free of charge.

Traveling to see a gigantic ‘M’ on the hillside might not sound very interesting, but climb the 266 stairs to the top and the view of the tri-state area, including the bluffs of the Mississippi, is spectacular. This video gives you a brief look at climbing the hillside and the views, which get better on clearer days.

When you reach the top, consider a little hiking. If you take the trail south, you will find narrow paths that lead to rock ledges perfect for a private view of the horizon. A few of the boulders even pose a little challenge to climb atop. Please consider your own safety before attempting.

The trail heading north is much longer, approximately one mile to the end. It’s a nice hilltop trail through the woods (not much for landscape views) and requires climbing over some fallen trees. What is unique about this trail is that the landscape drastically changes within the woods, becoming limestone cliff walls with shallow caves. Look for fossils in the rocks and absorb the natural beauty of this location.

There are trash receptacles near the stairs. Please do not litter and ruin this property being open for the public. A small paved parking lot was added in 2018.

Getting to the ‘M’: From Hwy. 151, take Exit 21 and turn east onto County XX. Within a mile, turn left (north) on West Mound Road. The ‘M’ is approximately two miles ahead on your right.

To learn the history of the ‘M’, please go to https://www.platteville.com/visit/things-to-do/the-m.