Bicycle Trails

Here are the trails

(But first a few reminders)

When using rail-trails be sure to be considerate of other trail users and local landowners.
Be safe--always wear a helmet!! Be a good example for your kids.
Always ride single file when meeting other riders or when being overtaken. Courtesy takes precedence over conversation with your riding companion.
Ride in a straight line. This is especially difficult for children, so remind and encourage your children not to weave around on the trail.
When stopping along the trail always park your bike off the traveled portion of the trail if you can, or as far to the right as possible. Remind your group not to block the trail when stopping.
When overtaking other trail users, call out a warning, such as "passing on your left" or use a warning device such as a bell. Be especially careful when passing children as they are easily startled and may swerve in front of you.
Only stray from the trail on public areas. If you do leave the trail, remember, leave no trace of your path! Don't litter!

The Elroy-Sparta State Trail

"The Granddaddy Of All Trails" was the first official Rails to Trails conversion in the United States in 1965. The surface of the trail is smooth, hard packed limestone. The 32 miles of abandoned Chicago & Northwestern railroad has no more than a 3 percent grade and passes through three tunnels that were dug by hand in the 1870's. Flashlights and jackets are recommended for going through the tunnels. The tunnels are located between Kendall and Wilton, Wilton and Norwalk, and the longest one is between Norwalk and Sparta.
The Elroy-Sparta trail links with the LaCrosse River Trail at Sparta.

The "400" State Trail

www.400statetrail.org

This is considered the most scenic trail in the Wisconsin State Trail System. It was named for the Chicago & Northwestern passenger train which traveled the 400 miles from Chicago to Minneapolis in 400 minutes. The 22 miles of smooth, hard packed limestone parallels or crosses the Baraboo River the entire length between Elroy and Reedsburg.

The Juneau County Omaha Trail

www.juneaucounty.com/tourism.asp?cid=276&id=281

This 12.5 mile long sealcoated trail is owned and maintained by Juneau County and has a separate trail fee. It is also on an abandoned Chicago & Northwestern Railroad bed and was opened in the spring of 1992. It is the most peaceful and secluded, and features an 875 foot tunnel.

The two pictures below of the ice in the tunnel were taken May 26, 2008.

Click on the thumbnail below for a map of the trails. Each map is a little different perspective.

Links to more bike trail information

Bike 4 Trails
The "400" State Trail
The Elroy-Sparta State Trail
Speed's Bicycle Shop (on the other end of the Elroy-Sparta Trail)
State Parks and Bicycle Trails
Mike's Bike Page (contains many links)
Trails from Rails (info & maps on many railtrails)
Rails-to-Trails Conservancy
Biketrails.com |
Wonderful Bicycle Trails