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This Summer, Hit the Bike Trails

If you're looking for a great way to get outside, get some exercise and enjoy the summer weather, bicycling can be the answer. Many of Wisconsin's city, county and state parks offer extensive networks of bike trails and paths that can be enjoyable for cyclists of all ability levels.

Great Trails in Your Area

Madison Area

The City of Madison and the surrounding communities host a large network of bike paths. The Capitol City State Trail is a substantial section of this network and connects with local paths, such as the Military Ridge State Trail and city bike paths like the Southwest Commuter Path (which spurs off of Regent Street near Camp Randall). Its asphalt surface is perfect for bicycling. About 17 miles of this trail are completed with beautiful scenery throughout.

Milwaukee Area

The largest city in Wisconsin features one of our largest urban bicycle trail systems, Milwaukee County's Oak Leaf Trail. It features over 100 miles of multiple loops connecting parks, neighborhoods and communities across the county. Loops consist of paved trails separated from the street, quiet parkway drives or where necessary, municipal streets.

Green Bay Area

Visit the Mountain-Bay State Recreational Trail, an 80.5-mile trail that passes through a wide variety of landscapes between the Wausau and Green Bay areas. Bicyclists and hikers can utilize this trail, which features many scenic bridges. Since this trail is a Rails to Trail project, approximately thirteen miles of this trail runs through Brown County atop an abandoned railroad grade, so the trail is relatively flat.

Whitewater Area

Visit the Kettle Moraine State Forest for a different, more challenging type of bicycling—mountain biking. The John Muir Trail, just outside of Whitewater, is great for bike enthusiasts. Spectacular ambiance surrounds you as you peddle through the heart of the Kettle Moraine State Forest on single track (unpaved, just wide enough for one bicycle). There is one trail designated “beginner” level, but most trails will be difficult for novice riders.

Stevens Point-Area

Try the 30.5 mile Green Circle Trail. It's a multi-use trail for hiking and biking that loops around the Stevens Point area. Start your route at the Schmeeckle Reserve, and meander through forests, over wetlands and along rivers. Different sections of the trail feature crushed granite, boardwalks, wood chips and paved stretches, so cyclists can experience a variety of path styles.

Important Bike Safety & Etiquette Tips

Remember, be sure to follow all traffic laws while bicycling. The same laws apply to bikes and motor vehicles—stop at all stop signs and stop lights, and never run red lights. Use hand signals when approaching a stop or turn, and always ride with traffic. It's also best to wear a helmet at all times, and be aware of your surroundings.

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