The best road cycling routes in Kettle Moraine State Forest

There are over 10 dedicated road cycling routes in Kettle Moraine State Forest, offering a variety of experiences for different skill levels. The komoot community has explored these routes extensively, with over 50 road cyclists using komoot to navigate the area.

The Kettle Moraine State Forest is particularly beautiful for road cycling during spring, summer, and especially in autumn. Fall foliage routes offer stunning views as the leaves change color, making it a popular time to visit. Spring and summer provide lush green landscapes and pleasant temperatures.

Yes, the forest offers several easy routes suitable for families. For instance, the Old Plank Road Trail loop from Greenbush is a relatively flat and smooth path, following a historic rail trail, which is great for a relaxed family outing.

The terrain in Kettle Moraine State Forest is shaped by its unique glacial topography, featuring rolling hills, drumlins, and kames. This means you'll encounter a mix of gentle gradients and more challenging climbs, with paved roads often following the natural contours of the landscape. Routes like the Kettle Moraine State Forest – Parnell Tower loop from Long Lake Campground 600s offer a good example of this rolling terrain.

While there are no routes classified as 'difficult' in the immediate selection, many routes feature significant elevation gains due to the glacial topography. For example, the Old plank road trail loop from Road America includes over 400 meters of elevation gain, providing a good challenge for experienced riders.

Many routes offer scenic views and pass by interesting landmarks. The Kettle Moraine State Forest – Parnell Tower loop from Long Lake Campground 600s takes you past the Parnell Observation Tower, which provides panoramic views of the forest. You can also explore the scenic Kettle Moraine Drive, known for its picturesque landscapes.

Yes, many of the road cycling routes in Kettle Moraine State Forest are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the Kettle Moraine Forest loop from Elkhart Lake and the Kettle Moraine Drive – Purple trail loop from German Corners.

Trailheads and parking are generally available at various points throughout the forest, often near popular starting locations for routes. For instance, the Old Plank Road Trail loop from Greenbush suggests starting from Greenbush, while the Parnell Tower loop can be accessed from Long Lake Campground 600s. Specific parking details are usually provided within individual route descriptions on komoot.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Reviewers often praise the diverse glacial landscape, the extensive woodlands, and the well-maintained paved roads that offer a natural and scenic setting for road cycling.

While popular routes can see more traffic, exploring some of the lesser-known sections of the Kettle Moraine Drive or routes that venture deeper into the forest, away from main attractions, can offer a more tranquil experience. Checking komoot's route planner for routes with fewer recorded completions might also help identify quieter paths.

Yes, Kettle Moraine State Forest is interspersed with numerous lakes and wetlands. Routes often provide glimpses of these water features. For example, the area around Mauthe Lake and the Lake to Lake Trail offer opportunities to cycle near water.