The best traffic-free bike rides in Bearskin State Park Trail

There are currently 3 easy no-traffic touring cycling routes available in Bearskin State Park Trail, all designed for a relaxed and enjoyable experience. These routes are primarily on the converted rail-trail, offering a smooth, compacted granite surface suitable for touring bikes.

The Bearskin State Park Trail is ideal for no-traffic touring cycling because it's a converted rail-trail, meaning it features a largely flat grade with only one small hill. The surface is primarily hard-packed, compacted granite, making it smooth and accessible for touring bikes and cyclists of all skill levels. It offers a peaceful, shaded ride through the Northwoods forest, away from vehicle traffic.

Yes, there are several excellent loop routes for touring cyclists. For example, you can enjoy the Bearskin State Park Trail loop from Rantz, which covers approximately 21 km. Another option is the Dollar Lake loop from Lakeland Conservancy, a slightly longer ride at about 26 km. For a shorter loop, consider the Clear Lake – American Legion State Forest loop from Inkpot Lake, which is around 9 km.

Cyclists on the Bearskin State Park Trail will experience a beautiful Northwoods forest with pine, spruce, oak, maple, elm, and birch trees. You'll also traverse picturesque spruce/tamarack bogs and enjoy views of numerous glacial lakes. A significant highlight is the series of converted railroad trestles, offering unique vantage points over lakes and streams, including a 375-foot trestle over Minocqua Lake and the scenic Harshaw Trestle.

Absolutely. The trail's largely flat grade and compacted granite surface make it very family-friendly. It's a safe environment away from vehicle traffic, allowing cyclists of varying ages and skill levels to enjoy the scenic Northwoods. The gentle terrain is perfect for a relaxed family outing.

Access points with parking are available along the trail. The northern trailhead is conveniently located on the shore of Minocqua Lake near downtown Minocqua. This area offers amenities and easy access to the trail. For specific parking locations, it's advisable to check local signage or the Wisconsin DNR website for the most current information.

The trail is beautiful in spring, summer, and fall. Spring offers fresh greenery, while summer provides lush, shaded rides. Fall is particularly stunning with vibrant foliage. The trail is also used for snowmobiling in winter, so conditions for cycling would be different and require specific winter biking gear.

Yes, dogs are generally allowed on the Bearskin State Park Trail. However, they must be kept on a leash and under control at all times. Please ensure you clean up after your pet to help maintain the trail's cleanliness and natural beauty for all users.

The trail offers insights into the region's past as a former railroad corridor. Interpretive signs along the route share the history of the railroad, which was originally built in the 1880s to transport pine logs. You can also see a century-old railroad line shed, a testament to the rustic living conditions of early railroad workers.

The northern trailhead is located near downtown Minocqua, an 'Island City' known for its popularity as a vacation destination. Minocqua offers various amenities, including bike shops for rentals, repairs, and sales, as well as numerous restaurants, some with scenic lakeside dining options. These services make it convenient for cyclists to prepare for or relax after their ride.

Yes, a state trail pass is required for all bicyclists 16 years of age and older. Passes can typically be purchased at self-registration stations along the trail or online through the Wisconsin DNR website. For current pass requirements and purchase locations, please visit the official Wisconsin DNR website: Wisconsin DNR - Bearskin State Trail.

The Bearskin State Park Trail provides ample opportunities for wildlife observation. Keep an eye out for deer, bald eagles soaring overhead, loons on the lakes, and various other birds and small animals. You might even spot water snakes near the numerous waterways.