Today, on my route from Reedsburg to La Crosse, I traveled on several of the most popular and oldest rail trails in Wisconsin. I started on the 400 State Trail, which is the newest of the trails I rode today but is important because it connects the historic Elroy-Sparta and La Crosse River State Trails almost all the way to the Great Sauk. I took an out-and-back detour on the adjacent Hillsboro State Trail, which connects the 400 State Trail to the small town of Hillsboro. It’s a great place to stop for a snack, and it even has accommodations if you want to break up the ride.
The Elroy-Sparta State Trail is Wisconsin’s (and the nation’s) first rail trail, and it’s still a gem! It features three railroad tunnels that are super fun (although somewhat cold and wet, so bring a light!). It’s also clear you’re entering the Driftless Area. You see bluffs along the trail, and it goes up and down more than any other trail so far, despite being a rail trail with tunnels.
The communities of Elroy and Sparta both have great bicycle memorabilia, signs, and culture. They feel so welcoming and celebratory of cycling, and it’s clearly drawing cyclists from around the state. I saw more riders on Elroy-Sparta than on any other trail, even on a Wednesday!
Just think what riding in Wisconsin could be like if we keep supporting bike infrastructure! Imagine La Crosse connected all the way to Milwaukee by continuous (or near-continuous) trails that are protected from cars, with lovely towns along the way for snacks. This is one vision of Rails to Trails Conservancy and the Wisconsin Bike Fed. To contribute and to learn more, go HERE and HERE.
Like every day, I was so grateful to be outside, riding my bike, feeling free and alive. It reminded me of another quote I like by Howard Thurman:
“Don’t ask what the world needs. Ask what makes you come alive, and go do it. Because what the world needs is people who have come alive.”
– Sarah
Today at a glance
Day 21 | Reedsburg to La Crosse
Mileage: 90
Explore Nearby
Dunn County, WI | Managed by: Landmark Conservancy
Originally intended to be a nuclear power plant site, the Meridian Barrens were protected and made public through Knowles-Nelson funding. Visitors can now hike, fish, and hunt on the land.
Eau Claire, WI | Managed by: City of Eau Claire
Eau Claire's Pheonix Park boasts a walking labyrinth, an outdoor amphitheater, the Eau Claire Farmers Market, and the Chippewa River State Trail trailhead. Knowles-Nelson funds allowed for Phoenix Park’s development and expansion.
Chippewa County, WI | Managed by: WI DNR
Tom Lawin Wildlife Area is a 2,282-acre public hunting and wildlife preserve. It's also a birding hotspot, with visitors frequently spotting waterfowl, shorebirds, American bitterns, harriers, and short-eared owls. Knowles-Nelson funded land purchases for the preserve’s expansion.
