Bike Wisconsin’s First Rails to Trails: A Scenic Ride in the Driftless Region

Elroy-Sparta State Trail, courtesy of Explore Monroe County

Bike Wisconsin’s First Rails to Trails: A Scenic Ride in the Driftless Region

In the rolling hills of Wisconsin’s Driftless Region, Monroe County is home to a slice of American cycling history. The Elroy-Sparta State Trail, which opened in 1967, is generally credited as the nation’s first rails-to-trails project, rewriting a defunct Chicago & North Western Railway line into a 32.5-mile crushed-limestone route that continues to attract thousands of riders each year.

Whether you’re a bike aficionado chasing tunnels and views, or a family looking for an easy, unforgettable day outside, this trail hits the mark with scenery, small-town stops, and the quaint wherewithal of Monroe County.

The Trail That Started It All

Praised as the birthplace of the rails-to-trails movement, the Elroy-Sparta State Trail meanders through wetlands, prairies, farmland, and the Glacierless Region’s distinctive unglaciated landscape. The gradual slope makes it suitable for all skill levels. The packed crushed-limestone surface is best suited for hybrids, gravel bikes, or wider tires, though some road bikes can make it in dry conditions. You need a state trail pass, but once you clip in, you’re riding history itself.

Three Legendary Tunnels You’ll Never Forget

The highlight of the ride? The three hand-hewn rock tunnels, which were dug in the 1870s. Tunnels #1 (by Kendall) and #2 (near Norwalk) extend about a quarter-mile each, and Tunnel #3 (between Norwalk and Sparta) is the longest at three-quarters of a mile.

The trail is open year-round (snowmobiling is allowed during the winter months), but the tunnels are closed annually from November 1 to April 30 for bat conservation. When there’s snow in winter, riders take marked bypasses of the tunnels.

Charming Monroe County Trail Towns

The Pedal Destinations:

Sparta:

Bicycling Capital of America: Start or finish here and find bike shops, shuttle services, and cafés within steps of the trailhead. Pick up a coffee or an ice cream, and absorb the small-town vibe that gave Sparta its legendary nickname.

Norwalk:

Norwalk is a welcoming stop and is known as the “Trail Town with a Big Heart“. Fuel up at local cafés, browse the snug shops, or simply wave to locals who cheer every passing cyclist.

Wilton & Kendall:

Wilton and Kendall are quiet villages offering shaded picnic spots, restrooms, and that classic Midwest welcome. Pause for a sandwich or cold drink before tackling the next stretch.

What to Expect on Your Ride

The trail is gorgeous late spring through fall, with wildflowers bursting out in summer and brilliant autumn colors in the Driftless hills. There will be some gentle elevation changes, but the ride is mostly flat, with just enough up-and-down to feel like real adventuring. Trail towns have water and restrooms, but between stops, riders need to carry their own water. Several campgrounds and places to stay lie directly along the route, should you care to make a night out of your ride.

Pro Tip: Prepare early in the summer to escape the heat, and always bring a light for the tunnels

Plan Your Scenic Ride

Pedal the entire 32.5 miles or choose a shorter out-and-back section, but either way the Elroy-Sparta State Trail delivers a blend of history, nature, and good ol’ Monroe County hospitality. Rent bikes or shuttles in Sparta, pack a picnic, and prepare to learn why this trail changed American biking forever.