The best cycling routes in Juneau County

Juneau County offers a diverse landscape for touring cyclists, featuring scenic valleys, rolling hills, and expansive farmland. You'll encounter significant waterways like the Wisconsin River flowage system, Lake Petenwell, and Castle Rock Lake, as well as the Baraboo, Yellow, and Lemonweir Rivers. Distinctive sandstone formations are visible along the Dells of the Wisconsin River and at Mill Bluff State Park. The terrain also includes woods, plains, marshes, and bluffs, providing varied backdrops for your rides.

Yes, Juneau County is renowned for its 'Rails to Trails' system. The Elroy-Sparta State Trail is a prime example, a 34-mile route known for its historic tunnels. The 400 State Trail runs parallel to the Baraboo River, offering scenic views of sandstone outcroppings and wildlife. Another option is the Omaha Trail, a 13-mile rail trail that also features an 875-foot tunnel.

For an easier ride, consider the Lake Delton loop, an 8.6-mile (13.8 km) path offering scenic views of Lake Delton. This route is classified as easy and is a great option for a relaxed outing.

Yes, for a more challenging experience, the Tour of Redstone and Dutch Hollow Lakes is a 35.3-mile (56.8 km) trail that leads through varied terrain with significant elevation changes, making it a difficult route suitable for experienced riders.

Juneau County's routes offer a variety of natural and man-made features. You can explore impressive sandstone formations along the Wisconsin River Dells and at Mill Bluff State Park. The rail trails feature historic tunnels, such as the Omaha Bike Trail Tunnel #1. You'll also encounter extensive waterways like Lake Petenwell and Castle Rock Lake, and various rivers. Many routes pass through woods, plains, marshes, and bluffs, providing opportunities for wildlife viewing.

Juneau County is often referred to as a '4 Seasons Trail' destination, particularly for routes like the 400 State Trail, meaning its beauty changes throughout the year. However, for touring cycling, spring through fall generally offers the most pleasant conditions. During winter, the county transforms into a haven for snowmobiling, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing, making some cycling routes less accessible.

Yes, there are several circular routes. A popular moderate option is the Portage loop, which is 43.6 miles (70.1 km) long and offers views near Lake Dalton. Another moderate circular route is the Kendall Depot – Picnic Area in Wilton loop from Kendall, covering 37.8 km.

The touring cycling routes in Juneau County are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars from over 1 review. More than 40 touring cyclists have used komoot to explore the varied terrain, often praising the scenic diversity and well-maintained trails.

For longer rides, you can combine sections of the extensive rail trail system. For example, the Elroy-Sparta State Trail connects to the 400 State Trail and the La Crosse River State Trail, allowing for extended journeys. Individually, routes like the Kendall Depot – Tunnel Watchman's rest stop loop from Kendall offer a substantial 56.9 km ride.

Along and near the rail trails, you can find various amenities. For instance, The Elroy Commons serves as a facility in Elroy, a key hub for the rail trails. You may also find picnic areas like the one mentioned in the Kendall Depot – Picnic Area in Wilton loop. The region also offers hundreds of campsites and opportunities for other outdoor activities.

Yes, when cycling through the historic tunnels on rail trails like the Elroy-Sparta State Trail and the Omaha Trail, cyclists must walk their bikes. It's also important to note that these tunnels are closed seasonally, so it's advisable to check local conditions before planning your trip.

There are over 8 touring cycling routes documented in Juneau County on komoot, offering a range of difficulties from easy to difficult, ensuring options for various skill levels.