The best traffic-free bike rides in Portage County
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If you've ever tried to plan touring cycling in Portage County, you know how overwhelming the options can be. It's tough to tell which routes are genuinely worth your time and effort, and which are just filler. We get it, and that's exactly why we've put together this guide. Our komoot community has mapped, ridden, and reviewed these routes, so you don't have to guess.
Portage County offers a fantastic network of traffic-free routes, perfect for touring cyclists looking for…
Last updated: May 27, 2026
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Pedal through a charming blend of natural beauty and local history on the Stone Bridge in Iverson Park loop. This easy touring cycling route takes you along the Plover River,…
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Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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riders
12.9km
00:54
30m
30m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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This touring cycling route, the Stone Bridge in Iverson Park – Schmeeckle Reserve loop from Park Ridge, offers a delightful pedal through diverse ecosystems. You'll experience the smooth ride of…
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riders
15.4km
00:54
70m
70m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Crossing Iverson Park while cycling through the Green Circle Trail is worth a stop, as this park offers many amenities that may interest you, especially if you're riding with the family, such as a large playground, restrooms, and picnic areas.
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The 27-mile Green Circle Trail looping through Stevens Point is ideal for exploring the area with your bike and discovering additional trails. Along this stretch of the trail, you'll come very close to the Plover River, where it meanders through tight bends, allowing you to approach the shore and take in the surrounding nature.
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Immerse yourself in the natural wonder of Schmeeckle Reserve, a 280-acre conservancy area at UW-Stevens Point. Serving as a community nature haven, it safeguards central Wisconsin's diverse ecosystems. Open to the public, this serene escape offers 5 miles of trails, boardwalks, a 24-acre lake, and varied habitats supporting a wealth of wildlife.
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Bukolt Park Beach is at the edge of the 56-acre Bukolt Park along the Wisconsin River. The park features various amenities, including a baseball diamond, a bathhouse, a boat ramp, the Green Circle Trail, horseshoe pits, a lagoon, lodge, playfield, playground equipment, picnic areas, restrooms, a skateboard park, and volleyball courts. The swimming beach, although not monitored by lifeguards, is a great place for a dip.
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Immerse yourself in the natural wonder of Schmeeckle Reserve, a 280-acre conservancy area at UW-Stevens Point. Serving as a community nature haven, it safeguards central Wisconsin's diverse ecosystems. Open to the public, this serene escape offers 5 miles of trails, boardwalks, a 24-acre lake, and varied habitats supporting a wealth of wildlife.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many no-traffic touring cycling routes are available in Portage County?
There are over 10 dedicated no-traffic touring cycling routes in Portage County, offering a variety of experiences for cyclists. Most of these routes are rated as easy, making them accessible for many skill levels.
What types of surfaces can I expect on the no-traffic cycling routes in Portage County?
The no-traffic cycling routes in Portage County primarily feature paved or crushed limestone paths. This makes them suitable for touring bicycles and offers a smooth ride through diverse landscapes.
Are there any family-friendly no-traffic cycling routes in Portage County?
Yes, many of the routes are ideal for families. The extensive network of multi-purpose trails, such as the Portage Hike and Bike Trail and the Headwaters Trail, are mostly flat and car-free, providing a safe and enjoyable experience for all ages. These trails often pass through scenic areas with opportunities for wildlife spotting.
What is the best time of year to go touring cycling in Portage County?
The best time for touring cycling in Portage County is typically from spring through fall. During these seasons, the weather is generally pleasant, and the natural scenery, from lush forests to wetlands, is at its most vibrant. While some trails may be accessible in winter, conditions can vary due to snow and ice.
Are there any notable natural attractions or points of interest along the no-traffic cycling routes?
Portage County's routes offer access to diverse natural beauty. You can explore areas near state parks like West Branch State Park with its large lake, or Wingfoot Lake State Park. The Stone Bridge in Iverson Park loop, for example, offers scenic views. The region is also known for its nature preserves, including Cooperrider–Kent Bog and Triangle Lake Bog, which feature unique ecosystems like tamarack trees and carnivorous plants.
Can I find loop routes for no-traffic touring cycling in Portage County?
Yes, Portage County offers several excellent loop options for no-traffic touring cycling. Routes like the Stone Bridge in Iverson Park – Green circle trail loop provide a circular journey, allowing you to start and end at the same point without retracing your path.
What is the typical elevation gain on these no-traffic touring cycling routes?
Most no-traffic touring cycling routes in Portage County feature relatively low elevation gains, making them generally easy and accessible. For instance, the Stone Bridge in Iverson Park loop has an elevation gain of around 42 meters, while the Stone Bridge in Iverson Park – Green circle trail loop has about 77 meters of elevation gain, indicating a gentle terrain suitable for leisurely rides.
Are there places to park near the no-traffic bike trails in Portage County?
Yes, parking is generally available at various trailheads throughout Portage County. Popular trails like the Portage Hike and Bike Trail and the Headwaters Trail have designated parking areas in towns such as Kent, Ravenna, Mantua, and Garrettsville, making access convenient for cyclists.
Are dogs allowed on the no-traffic cycling routes in Portage County?
Many multi-use trails in Portage County are dog-friendly, but it's always best to check specific trail regulations before you go. Generally, dogs are welcome on a leash, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for all trail users.
What do other touring cyclists enjoy most about the no-traffic routes in Portage County?
The no-traffic touring cycling routes in Portage County are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Reviewers often praise the peaceful, car-free environment, the well-maintained paths, and the beautiful natural scenery that makes for a relaxing and enjoyable ride.
Are there any cafes or amenities near the no-traffic cycling routes?
Yes, several towns along the major trails offer amenities. For example, Kent and Ravenna, connected by the Portage Hike and Bike Trail, provide various cafes, restaurants, and shops. Similarly, Mantua and Garrettsville, near the Headwaters Trail, have options for refreshments and breaks, with some establishments being cyclist-friendly.
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