The best road cycling routes in La Crosse County

La Crosse County offers a diverse range of landscapes for road cyclists. You'll encounter picturesque bluffs, serene riverlands, and quiet country highways. The region is part of the unique Driftless Area, characterized by rolling hills and deep valleys, providing varied terrain and stunning views of the Mississippi and La Crosse River valleys. Iconic bluffs like Grandad Bluff are also prominent features.

Yes, La Crosse County is a fantastic destination for road cycling. There are over 35 road cycling routes available on komoot, catering to various skill levels and preferences. These routes explore the region's scenic bluffs, river valleys, and the rolling terrain of the Driftless Area.

Absolutely! La Crosse County offers several easy road cycling routes. For a relatively flat and scenic ride, consider the Riverside Park – Tschumper Hill Views loop from La Crosse, which covers about 27 miles. Another great option is the Hixon View – Grandad Bluff Road loop from University of Wisconsin-La Crosse, an easier 5.2-mile trail that still offers bluff views.

For those seeking a challenge, La Crosse County's Driftless Area provides routes with notable elevation gains. The Riverside Park loop from La Crosse, at 37.7 miles, includes over 1,400 feet of climbing. Another route, the Riverside Park – Mary of the Angels Chapel loop from La Crosse, is a moderate 40.2-mile path with significant elevation gain, passing by local landmarks.

Yes, La Crosse County is known for its extensive network of well-maintained bike paths, many of which are family-friendly. The La Crosse Marsh loop from La Crosse is a moderate 14.3-mile paved route that offers a pleasant ride through wetlands. Additionally, the La Crosse River State Trail and Great River State Trail provide long, paved, and generally flat sections ideal for families.

Many road cycling routes in La Crosse County offer access to beautiful natural features and landmarks. You can enjoy panoramic views from Grandad Bluff Viewpoint or Rim of the City Viewpoint. The Riverside Park is a popular starting point with river views, and you might even spot Mushroom Rock or View from Tortoise Rock. The Mississippi River itself is a prominent feature, with trails offering opportunities for birdwatching.

Yes, La Crosse County is home to sections of renowned state trails perfect for road biking. The La Crosse River State Trail offers 22 miles of paved riding along an abandoned railroad grade. The Great River State Trail provides 24.5 miles of cycling along the Mississippi River. The historic Elroy-Sparta Trail, one of the nation's first 'Rails to Trails' projects, is also nearby, featuring old railroad tunnels. You can find more information about the La Crosse River State Trail on the Wisconsin DNR website.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Reviewers often praise the diverse landscapes, from challenging bluff climbs to serene river valley rides, and the extensive network of well-maintained trails. The unique geological features of the Driftless Area and the panoramic views from bluffs are frequently highlighted as favorite aspects.

The best seasons for road cycling in La Crosse County are typically spring, summer, and fall. These months offer pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery, from blooming spring flowers to lush summer greenery and stunning autumn foliage. While winter cycling is possible, many trails may be covered in snow or ice, making it less ideal for road bikes.

Yes, many of the road cycling routes in La Crosse County are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the Riverside Park loop from La Crosse, the Hixon View – Grandad Bluff Road loop from University of Wisconsin-La Crosse, and the La Crosse Marsh loop from La Crosse. These loops offer convenient ways to explore different parts of the region.

La Crosse County is recognized as a 'Silver-Level Bicycle Friendly Community,' and local public transport options often accommodate cyclists. While specific details vary, many city buses are equipped with bike racks, making it possible to reach various trailheads and cycling routes without needing a car. It's always a good idea to check the local transit authority's website for the most current information on bike policies and routes.

To find less crowded road cycling experiences, consider exploring some of the routes that venture further into the rural areas and country highways of the Driftless Region, away from the immediate city limits. While popular state trails can see more traffic, many of the longer loops, such as the Roadbike loop from Medary, offer a more tranquil ride through scenic landscapes.