Wisconsin is a state of diverse landscapes. Home to rolling hills, remnant prairies, sparkling lakes, cathedral pines, agricultural land, bluffs and rugged terrain, and shorelines of two of our beautiful Great Lakes, Wisconsin has scenic views in every corner of the state. One of the best ways to enjoy Wisconsin’s scenic landscapes is through biking one of the state’s 1,700 miles of bike trails. One of my favorite trails in the state is the Ozaukee Interurban Trail. along Wisconsin’s Southern Lake Michigan shore.
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The Ozaukee trail can be found on the All Trails app. For detailed trail maps on the go, check out the All Trails app. Search 450,000 trails by state and region – includes photos, trail maps and detailed reviews. Sign up for a Free 7-day trial HERE. Â
Passing through six charming Wisconsin communities, you’ll enjoy scenic views of Lake Michigan and the surrounding shoreline, observe native wildflowers and migrating butterflies, and plenty of stops along the way for food and drink. Between Milwaukee and Sheboyban, WI, the beautiful Ozaukee Interurban Trail is a beautiful way to explore Ozaukee County and Lake Michigan’s beautiful southern shore.
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 Ozaukee 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
A couple of years ago I rode through Coal Dock Park in early September and witnessed hundreds of migrating monarch butterflies on native wildflowers along the shore. It was quite a sight!
Lake Michigan National Marine Sanctuary
The Wisconsin Shipwreck Coast National Marine Sanctuary encompasses 962 square miles of Lake Michigan including a portion of Kewaunee County, and all of Manitowoc, Sheboygan, and Ozaukee Counties. The marine sanctuary encompasses 36 known shipwreck sites. Researchers believe that up to 60 additional shipwrecks are yet to be discovered! The waters east of Port Washington are part of this unique marine sanctuary.
Connecting Trails
The Ozaukee Interurban Trail connects with the Sheboygan Interurban Trail to the north, and with the Brown Deer Recreational Trail to the south.
Nearby Biking TrailsÂ
Opportunities for biking in this region are limitless. The Ozaukee Interurban Trail is central to several other scenic bike trails in surrounding Ozaukee County, Milwaukee County, and Washington County.
- Milwaukee County’s Oak Leaf Trail – 125 mile multi-use trail
- Sheboygan’s Old Plank Road Trail – 21 mile multi-use trail
- Eisenbahn State Trail, Washington County – 25 mile multi-use trail
Donate to Ozaukee Interurban Trail
To help maintain this beautiful trail for all to enjoy, consider a small donation to help maintain the trail for years to come. Donate HERE.
Other Scenic Wisconsin Bike Trails to Check Out…
Read more about two of my favorite rail trails in Wisconsin!  The Glacial Drumlin State Trail gives riders a view into the state’s geologic past. Glacial landforms color the landscape between Waukesha and Cottage Grove, WI.
Bike the Scenic Glacial Drumlin State Trail | Explore Wisconsin’s Post-glacial Landscapes
A second picturesque rail trail in the heart of Wisconsin’s Driftless Region is the Sugar River State Trail, from Brodhead to New Glarus, WI.
Explore Wisconsin’s Beautiful Driftless Region | Sugar River State Trail, Brodhead to New Glarus
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
For a comfortable pack for your gear, consider Osprey’s 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 adds extra visibility for road crossings.
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, a 2.5 liter hydration pack that includes hipbelt pockets and shoulder harness. Check out Osprey’s Packfinder to find the pack that will best fit your frame.
Biking the Ozaukee Interurban Trail, you will discover scenic views, native plants, (and maybe Monarchs!) birds and wildlife, beautiful Lake Michigan, and enjoy a great workout!
Enjoy your ride on this beautiful Wisconsin trail!
Happy Trails!
-Erin
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