The best traffic-free bike rides in Baraboo Hills State Recreation Area

There are a few dedicated no-traffic road cycling routes available in the Baraboo Hills State Recreation Area, offering a unique experience away from vehicles. Our guide features 3 such routes, ranging from easy to moderate difficulty.

The Baraboo Hills are known for their ancient geological formations, featuring rugged, unglaciated topography with significant elevation changes. You can expect a challenging yet rewarding experience with bluffs, deep gorges, and extensive deciduous forests. While the routes are traffic-free, they often incorporate the natural undulations of this unique landscape.

Yes, our selection includes routes suitable for various fitness levels. For an easier ride, consider The Great Sauk Trail – Sauk City Riverfront Park loop from Town of Sumpter, which is mostly flat. More experienced cyclists looking for a challenge will appreciate routes like the Roznos Meadow Trailhead – Devil's Lake State Park loop from Devil's Lake State Park or the Reedsburg loop, which feature notable elevation gains.

While riding these routes, you'll experience the unique geology of the Baraboo Hills, characterized by ancient quartzite bluffs and diverse forests. The region is a National Natural Landmark. The Roznos Meadow Trailhead – Devil's Lake State Park loop, for instance, brings you close to the stunning landscapes of Devil's Lake State Park, Wisconsin's largest and most visited state park, known for its dramatic bluffs and glacial features.

The Baraboo Hills offer beautiful cycling conditions throughout spring, summer, and especially in the fall when the deciduous forests display vibrant colors. Spring brings fresh greenery, while summer provides warm weather. Fall is particularly popular for scenic drives and rides due to the stunning foliage. Always check local weather conditions before heading out.

Yes, for those seeking a longer ride, the Reedsburg loop offers a substantial distance of approximately 73 kilometers (45 miles) with moderate elevation changes, providing an extended experience on traffic-free paths.

Some routes are more family-friendly than others. The Great Sauk Trail – Sauk City Riverfront Park loop is rated as easy and has minimal elevation, making it a good option for families. Routes with significant elevation changes, such as those around Devil's Lake State Park, might be more challenging for younger riders or those less accustomed to hills.

The komoot community rates the Baraboo Hills highly, with an average score of 4.5 stars. Reviewers often praise the challenging yet rewarding terrain, the stunning natural beauty, and the opportunity to ride on dedicated paths away from vehicle traffic, providing a peaceful and immersive outdoor experience.

While the routes themselves are generally accessible, if your ride takes you through or into Wisconsin State Parks, such as Devil's Lake State Park, a Wisconsin State Park System vehicle admission sticker or daily pass may be required for parking or entry. It's always best to check the specific requirements for any state park or natural area you plan to visit.

Yes, all the no-traffic road cycling routes featured in this guide are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. This includes the easy Great Sauk Trail – Sauk City Riverfront Park loop, the moderate Roznos Meadow Trailhead – Devil's Lake State Park loop, and the longer Reedsburg loop.

These routes are primarily designed for road cycling, meaning they feature well-paved surfaces suitable for road bikes. While some sections might be part of multi-use trails, the focus is on smooth, traffic-free pavement that allows for an enjoyable road cycling experience.