From the sparkling lakes and quiet Northwoods pines…to cornfields as far as the eye can see…to the beautiful shore of Lake Michigan…Wisconsin offers scenic views for every biking enthusiast. Whether you’re looking for the quiet peace of the woods, vast stretches of rolling agricultural land, or the cool breezes from Lake Michigan, you’ll find it in Wisconsin. I’ll highlight my three favorite trails in the state here.
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1 – Heart of Vilas Bike Trail System
The 52-mile paved Heart of Vilas Bike Trail System is recognized as a National Recreation Trail. This unique trail connects the 5 scenic Northwoods communities of St. Germain, Sayner, Boulder Junction, Manitowish Waters, and Mercer, Wisconsin. The Northern Highland American Legion Forest is home to the trail, and each of its communities offer unique opportunities to enjoy the beauty of the Northwoods. With 20 different trailheads/parking areas to choose from, you can start your ride anywhere along the trail.
For detailed trail maps on the go, check out the All Trails app. Search 450,000 trails with photos, detailed trail information and reviews. Sign up for a Free 7-day trial HERE. Â
Northwoods Trail Communities
St. Germain, Wisconsin
To access the trail in St. Germain, the main trailhead is at the Chamber of Commerce in downtown St. Germain at the intersection of Highways 155 and 70. You’ll find parking at a lot on Old Hwy 70, on South Bay Road. Â
Sayner/Star Lake
To access the trail in the Sayner/Star Lake area, park at the intersection of Highway N and Froelich Drive. From here, you can ride east toward Crystal Lake, or south towards St. Germain. Heading north, you’ll find one of the most beautiful parts of the trail. The stretch of trail along Trout Lake is gorgeous, quiet, and scenic.
Boulder Junction, Wisconsin
The Heart of Vilas trail passes through downtown Boulder Junction and the surrounding Northern Highland-American Legion State Forest. It is the prettiest stretch, in my humble opinion. This section can be accessed via several parking areas/trailheads as follows:
- Crystal Lake Campground – Highway N
- Intersection of Highways M and N
- Cathedral Point (Highway M)
- Community Sports & Rec Park (Highway M)
- Intersection of Dairymen’s Road and Highway M (Northern leg)
- Highway K and Camp Manito-wish Road
- Intersection of Highways K and H
- Highway K at Little Rice Creek
Manitowish Waters, Wisconsin
9.7 miles north of Boulder Junction, the beautiful town of Manitowish Waters awaits. The Northwoods beauty continues along this stretch of trail. The trail can be accessed in multiple locations in Manitowish Waters:
- Manitowish Waters Community Center
- Rest Lake Park
- Koller Park
- North Lakeland Discovery Center
If you’re in search of some caffeine, a smoothie, salad or sandwich, be sure to check out Dixie’s Coffeehouse. Located on the shore of Vance Lake in downtown Manitowish Waters, it is a perfect stop for a coffee or quick bite along the trail.
Mercer, Wisconsin
Just 7 miles north of Manitowish Waters, you’ll arrive in Mercer. Along the route between Manitowish and Mercer, you’ll cross a 40-foot bridge over the Manitowish River. This scenic bridge is part of the Mercer Hike and Bike Trail.
**If you’re interested in reading more about local restaurants and bike shops in these trail communities, be sure to read my blog post on the Heart of Vilas County Trail.
Bike Wisconsin’s Beautiful Northwoods – Heart of Vilas County Trail
2 – Glacial Drumlin State Trail | Cottage Grove to Waukesha, Wisconsin
Between Cottage Grove and Waukesha Wisconsin, the Glacial Drumlin State Trail covers 52 miles of rolling glacial landscapes. The trail is paved from Waukesha to Dousman, while the rest of the trail is crushed limestone. There are no interruptions in the trail, with the exception of a brief 1.5 mile section NE of Jefferson between State Highway 26 and County Highway H.
The trail crosses the Koshkonong Creek 5 times. In addition, you’ll cross the larger Crawfish River once as well. West of Lake Mills, you will cross the Glacial Drumlin Trail Trestle at Rock Lake.
If you’re interested in more information about Wisconsin’s post-glacial landscape, or about trail communities along this beautiful trail, be sure to read my blog post on the Glacial Drumlin State Trail.
Bike the Scenic Glacial Drumlin State Trail | Explore Wisconsin’s Post-glacial Landscapes
Glacial Drumlin State Trail | Permitted Uses and Trail Fees
Glacial Drumlin State Trail – Permitted Uses for this trail include biking, hiking, in-line skating, skiing and snowmobiling. Uses not permitted on the trail include motorized vehicles, ATVs, hunting and horses.
You can find parking, restrooms, and picnic areas along the trail. Pets are welcome, but must be leashed. See the Wisconsin DNR Map of the Glacial Drumlin State Trail.
Glacial Drumlin State Trail – Fees Bikers and in-line skaters (age 16 or older) are required to have an annual or daily state trail pass. You can purchase passes online from the Wisconsin DNR or at state park offices. Self-registration is available when offices are closed.  In addition, some local businesses along the trails sell trail passes.
3 – Ozaukee Interurban TrailÂ
Last but certainly not least, one of my three favorite trails in the state just happens to be along the southern Lake Michigan shore. Passing through six charming Wisconsin communities, the Ozaukee Interurban Trail offers scenic views of Lake Michigan and the surrounding shoreline, native wildflowers, migrating birds and butterflies, and numerous stops along the way for food and drink. The beautiful Ozaukee Interurban Trail is an excellent way to explore Ozaukee County and Lake Michigan’s southern shore.
If you’re interested in reading more about trail communities in the surrounding area, be sure to read my blog post on the Ozaukee Interurban Trail.
Bike the Beautiful Ozaukee Interurban Trail | Mequon to Belgium, Wisconsin
Ozaukee Interurban Trail | Permitted Uses and Trail Fees
Permitted Uses for this trail include biking, hiking, in-line skating, running, and cross-country skiing.
Non-permitted uses include motorized vehicles, ATVs, and horseback riding. You can find parking, restrooms, and trail heads in each of the 6 trail communities detailed above. Leashed pets are welcome on the trail. See the Interactive Map of the Ozaukee Interurban Trail.
Ozaukee Interurban Trail Fees: Â There is no fee to ride the Ozaukee Interurban Trail.
Ozaukee Interurban Trail Communities
From north to south, the 30-mile paved Ozaukee Interurban Trail passes through the communities of Belgium, Port Washington, Grafton, Cedarburg, Theinsville, and Mequon. Each of these communities offer views of Lake Michigan, scenic viewpoints, wildflowers, coffeeshops, art galleries and boutiques, and restaurants to stop for a snack or a meal along your ride.
Check out the Interactive Trail Map for the Ozaukee Interurban Trail.
Ozaukee County Trail Community | Cedarburg, Wisconsin
My favorite trail community along the Ozaukee Interurban trail is Cedarburg. This picturesque community along the Cedar Creek is a beautiful spot to stop along the trail, grab a meal or a snack, and visit the many shops. The trail passes through downtown Cedarburg between Pioneer Rd. and Bobolink Ave. where the Interurban Bridge crosses the Cedar River.
Ozaukee Interurban Trail Communities | MequonÂ
Mequon is a charming city south of Cedarburg with a population of just over 25,000. Named for the Indian word, “Miguan”, for the ladle-like shape of the Milwaukee River, which flows through the community. In Mequon, you’ll find several great coffee shops (Fiddleheads is my favorite!) Two other coffee options are Colectivo in the Mequon Town Center, and Interurban Coffeehouse, Bakery & Juicery.
If you’re in search of bike service, bike rentals, or other bike gear, be sure to check out Trailside Recreation, located at 11090 N. Weston Drive, Suite 3, just a block from the trail.
Ozaukee Interurban Trail Communities | Port Washington
Port Washington is a charming Lake Michigan town offering unique shops, and great options for a meal. If you’re riding through town on a Saturday, check out the beautiful farmer’s market – from June 14 through October on Main Street. You can’t miss it!
As you ride through town, be sure to look for the historic light station, built in 1860! The light station includes a keeper’s house and lantern room. The breakwater light is located at the entrance to the harbor at Coal Dock Park.Â
Biking Gear for Trail Rides
Weather is ever-changing in Wisconsin! Mornings and evenings can be chilly, and midday sun can be intense, even into the fall months. Explore Fall Gear & Apparel up to 60% Off. Jackets & Layers Up To 65% Off
Biking Specific Packs
If you’re looking for a bike-specific hydration pack, consider the Kitsuma or Katari hydration packs in 1.5 liter, 3 liter, and 7 liter sizes. I have used the Katari 3 pack for several years now. It is just large enough for extra water, snacks, and a light layer of clothing. The bright yellow color also adds extra visibility for road crossings. Check out Osprey Best Sellers.
For a lumbar off-the-back pack, check out the 1.5 liter Seral 7 hydration pack, with enough room for a spare tube and patch kit.  For something a tad larger, I recommend the Raptor 10 with hipbelt pockets and shoulder harness. Osprey’s Packfinder will help you to find the pack that will best fit your frame and activity.
Enjoy your time exploring these beautiful Wisconsin trails!
-Erin
