The best cycling routes in Sauk County

The Portage loop offers a delightful touring cycling experience through Wisconsin's varied rural landscapes. You'll pedal along mostly paved surfaces, encountering gentle rolling hills that provide a consistent but manageable challenge over its 43.6 miles (70.1 km). Expect to see riverside paths, agricultural fields, and woodlands, with views along the historic Wisconsin and Fox Rivers, making for a scenic 4 hours and 6 minutes ride.

This moderate route is generally accessible from spring through fall, with parking available in the Portage area. While the roads are mostly low-traffic, it's wise to carry sufficient water, especially on warmer days, as amenities can be sparse in rural sections. Checking local conditions before you go will ensure a smooth ride.

This Portage Wisconsin cycling route is part of a wider network of trails in Columbia County, rich in history and offering unique cultural sights like Amish communities on some loops. The trail's diverse scenery, from wetlands to prairies and the Pine Island State Wildlife Area, makes it a notable option for exploring the region's natural beauty and historical context on two wheels.

This challenging touring cycling loop offers a tale of two trails, blending the smooth, paved Great Sauk State Trail with the rugged, hilly terrain around Devil's Lake State Park. You'll cruise along the Wisconsin River, enjoying river views and charming towns, before tackling significant climbs and potentially unpaved sections as you approach the dramatic bluffs of Devil's Lake. It's a route for those who appreciate diverse cycling experiences and aren't afraid of a workout.

To tackle this 46.5-mile (74.8 km) route with its 2115 feet (645 metres) of elevation gain, plan for an estimated 4 hours and 41 minutes of riding. Remember that a state trail pass is required for the Great Sauk State Trail. While the rail-trail offers easy access to towns like Sauk City, the Devil's Lake portion involves more demanding terrain, with limited paved cycling options within the park itself, often requiring use of hilly rural roads.

The Great Sauk State Trail is a successful rail-to-trail conversion, providing a scenic and accessible ride. In contrast, Devil's Lake State Park is famous for its stunning quartzite bluffs and picturesque lake, offering a completely different natural experience. This loop provides a comprehensive exploration of the region's varied landscapes, from riverfront paths to forested hills, making it a top-rated cycling option in Wisconsin for experienced riders.

The Sauk County loop offers a delightful touring cycling experience, blending smooth paved trails with scenic country roads. You'll pedal through varied landscapes, from the tranquil banks of the Wisconsin River, where bald eagles are often seen, to open prairies and rolling farmland with distant views of the Baraboo Hills. This moderate 30.5-mile (49.2 km) route, with its 1170 feet (357 metres) of elevation gain, takes about 3 hours and 3 minutes, making it a perfect day trip for those who enjoy a mix of terrain and natural beauty.

Planning your ride is straightforward, with convenient parking available in the historic communities of Sauk City and Prairie du Sac. Be aware that a state trail pass is necessary for cyclists aged 16 and older when you're on the Great Sauk State Trail sections. Along this part of the route, you'll find useful amenities like rest areas and bike repair stations, ensuring a comfortable journey.

What makes this route stand out is its clever use of the Great Sauk State Trail, which follows a former Union Pacific rail corridor, providing a smooth and accessible surface for a significant portion of the ride. This trail system is also envisioned to connect to other regional trails, including Devil's Lake State Park, offering even more adventure options for the future. It's a fantastic way to explore the natural and historical charm of Sauk County.

Embark on the Devil's Lake Loop for a touring cycling adventure through the picturesque Baraboo Hills of Wisconsin. This route winds through beautiful rural landscapes, offering glimpses of ancient quartzite bluffs and passing through charming farm fields and small woodlots. You'll experience the unique topography of the region, with challenging hills that provide rewarding scenic views over Devil's Lake from various points along the way.

This moderate 10.1-mile (16.3 km) touring cycling route involves a significant 902 feet (275 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking about 1 hour and 7 minutes to complete. Be prepared for challenging hills and winding roads. Safety is a key consideration, as some sections may have traffic, blind corners, and narrow or absent shoulders, so ride with caution.

The Baraboo Hills area is renowned for its unique geology and natural beauty, making this loop a great way to explore the region's character. While Devil's Lake State Park itself is known for its mountain biking trails, this touring route sticks to the surrounding rural roads, offering a different perspective of the area's natural features and agricultural charm.

The Lake Delton loop offers a delightful touring cycling experience, winding around the picturesque Lake Delton with constant views of its blue waters. You'll pedal along mostly paved multi-use paths and bike lanes, occasionally dipping into wooded areas or skirting the rolling terrain near the Wild Rock Golf Course. The route provides glimpses of the region's unique sandstone formations and rocky cliffs, particularly along the scenic Canyon Road Trail which crosses Lost Canyon Creek.

This easy 8.6-mile (13.8 km) ride involves about 370 feet (113 metres) of elevation gain, making it a manageable 50-minute outing for most touring cyclists. It's an ideal choice for a leisurely spin or as a warm-up for longer adventures in the Wisconsin Dells area. Parking is generally available around Lake Delton, and the well-maintained paths make it accessible for a pleasant ride any time of day.

What makes this route stand out is its blend of dedicated cycling infrastructure and natural beauty, showcasing Lake Delton's wooded banks and the nearby Lost Canyon. The continuous development of bike paths in the area since 2008 ensures a smooth and enjoyable journey. It's a fantastic way to experience the diverse landscapes of Sauk County, offering a refreshing escape without demanding a full day's commitment.

If you're seeking a challenging ride with diverse scenery, the Tour of Redstone and Dutch Hollow Lakes delivers. This 35.3-mile (56.8 km) touring cycling route, rated difficult, takes you through Wisconsin's Driftless Area, past the wetlands of the Baraboo River Valley, and offers striking views of Lake Redstone's distinctive red rock formations. With 2398 feet (731 metres) of elevation gain and an estimated duration of 3 hours and 45 minutes, be prepared for rolling hills, bluffs, and a mix of paved and unpaved sections that might require dismounting.

To tackle this route, start in La Valle, Wisconsin, and ensure you have a versatile touring bike capable of handling varied terrain. While no specific permits or seasonal closures are noted, it's always wise to check local conditions before you go. This is a ride best suited for experienced cyclists with a good level of fitness, ready for a substantial workout.

What truly sets this route apart are the unique geological features, particularly the red cliffs at the southern end of Lake Redstone and the sandstone outcroppings found throughout the region. It offers a taste of the

The Reedsburg loop offers a fantastic touring cycling experience through the scenic Baraboo Hills, characterized by rolling farmland, dense forested areas, and impressive rock formations. As you pedal, you'll encounter distinctive rock wall scenery and treed hills, making for a picturesque journey that feels far removed from city life. It's a route that truly showcases the natural beauty of rural Wisconsin, especially vibrant during the autumn months.

This moderate road ride covers 39.9 miles (64.3 km) with 1283 feet (391 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking around 3 hours and 52 minutes to complete. The route is predominantly paved public roads, so no special permits or fees are required. You'll find amenities like cafes and shops in nearby Reedsburg and Baraboo, making it easy to refuel or grab supplies before or after your ride.

While the Reedsburg loop is a dedicated road cycling route, it's located near the 400 State Trail, a crushed limestone rail-trail that connects to other state trails like the Elroy-Sparta Trail. This area is a hub for outdoor recreation, offering diverse options for cyclists and hikers alike. The Baraboo Hills themselves are a geological marvel, providing a unique backdrop for your ride.

Embark on the North Freedom/Leland loop, a difficult 45.7-mile (73.6 km) touring cycling route that plunges you into the heart of Sauk County's diverse landscapes. You'll pedal through a captivating mix of open Wisconsin farmland, follow the curves of rivers, and venture into shaded wooded areas. The route provides unique opportunities to spot Natural Bridge State Park, showcasing the region's geological interest and varied ecosystems. With 2,766 feet (843 metres) of elevation gain, this ride is a true test of endurance, offering a rich visual experience for advanced cyclists.

To make the most of this challenging route, plan to start your journey early in the day. This will give you ample time to complete the 4 hours and 46 minutes estimated ride, especially considering the varied terrain. Some sections may be unpaved, and you might encounter rough bridges that require you to push your bike. An early start also helps you avoid potential afternoon heat and allows for a more relaxed pace through the demanding segments.

The North Freedom/Leland loop stands out as one of the best bike trails in the North Freedom WI area for those seeking a demanding adventure. It offers a deep dive into the region's blend of agricultural heritage and natural beauty, far from generic cycling tours. The varied terrain and significant elevation gain make it a prime choice for experienced riders looking for advanced cycling trails near North Freedom, Wisconsin, providing a comprehensive exploration of Sauk County's diverse scenery.

Cycle the easy 13.7-mile Reedsburg Central and Southwest Loops, gaining 386 feet through rural Wisconsin scenery and along the Baraboo River