The best traffic-free bike rides around Lake Mendota

There are over 100 touring cycling routes around Lake Mendota that prioritize minimal traffic, offering a variety of experiences for cyclists. Most of these, around 77, are rated as easy, with 22 moderate and a couple of more challenging options.

The terrain around Lake Mendota is quite varied, featuring rolling hills, open vistas, and flat, paved sections. Many routes offer scenic views of the lake and the Madison skyline. For example, the Lake Monona Loop is mostly paved and easy, while other routes might include sections through natural preserves with diverse ecosystems.

Yes, many of the easy, no-traffic routes are suitable for families. The Madison area is recognized as a Platinum-Level Bike-Friendly Community, and routes like the Lake Monona Loop are popular for their paved surfaces and gentle gradients, making them ideal for all skill levels. The Lake Mendota – Howard Temin Lakeshore Path loop from Madison also offers a pleasant, easy ride along the lake.

You'll find a rich array of natural beauty and points of interest. Many routes offer views of Lake Mendota itself, the Madison skyline, and areas like the Lakeshore Nature Preserve. You might also pass by the historic Picnic Point Mound Group or enjoy the tranquility of Tent Colony Caretakers Woods. The area is home to diverse ecosystems, including wetlands, marshes, meadows, and forests.

Yes, several routes offer circular options. The Lake Monona Loop is a well-known 18.1-mile circular route that provides continuous lake views. While a full Lake Mendota loop can be longer and involve some shared road sections, many of the designated no-traffic paths, like segments of the Lakeshore Path, can be incorporated into circular rides.

The spring, summer, and fall months generally offer the best conditions for touring cycling around Lake Mendota, with pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery. Autumn, in particular, provides beautiful foliage. While some trails may be accessible in winter, conditions can vary, and specific winter maintenance for cycling paths should be checked.

Parking is generally available at various access points for trails around Lake Mendota. For routes that utilize the Lakeshore Nature Preserve, bike parking is often available at designated points, allowing you to explore hiking-only trails on foot. Specific parking details can often be found on individual route descriptions on komoot.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 260 ratings. Reviewers often praise the scenic lake views, the well-maintained paved paths, and the peaceful, car-free environment that allows for a relaxing cycling experience. The accessibility to natural preserves and urban amenities is also frequently highlighted.

Given Madison's bike-friendly nature and the proximity of many routes to urban areas, you'll find various cafes, restaurants, and pubs within easy reach of the trails. The Steensland Bridge – B-Cycle ~ CCT @ Garver Feed loop from Breese Stevens Field, for instance, passes through areas with amenities. Many routes offer opportunities to stop in Madison or surrounding communities for refreshments.

Madison has a public transportation system that can help you reach various trailheads and starting points for cycling routes. As a Platinum-Level Bike-Friendly Community, efforts are made to integrate cycling with public transport options. It's advisable to check local bus routes and their bike-carrying policies for specific access points.

While many no-traffic routes are easy, more experienced riders can combine segments or explore longer loops that incorporate dedicated paths. For a significant challenge, the Lake Wingra – Glenway Woods loop from Dane County is rated difficult and covers over 125 km, offering an extended touring experience, though it may include some sections with light traffic.