Fox River Paper Company Historic District

Cycle the easy 4.9-mile Fox Trot and North Island Trail Loop in Appleton, Wisconsin, offering river views and historical sites in 30 minutes

The Appleton Swing Railroad Bridge – Fox River loop offers a delightful touring bicycle experience, winding through a mix of natural and urban landscapes. This easy 20.4-mile (32.8 km) route, with its minimal 445 feet (136 metres) of elevation gain, takes approximately 1 hour and 55 minutes to complete, making it an ideal choice for a leisurely ride. You'll pedal past wetlands, prairies, and wooded sections, all while enjoying continuous views of the Fox River and its historic navigational locks.

Accessing this popular route is straightforward, as it's part of a larger, well-connected trail system in the Fox Cities area. You'll find numerous entry points, and free printed trail maps are readily available at the Appleton Parks and Recreation Customer Service Area. The smooth, mostly paved surfaces make it suitable for all skill levels, and it's a great option for a morning or afternoon outing.

Beyond the scenic river views, the trail highlights local history, including the impressive Appleton Swing Railroad Bridge, a through-truss bridge from 1929. The route is also part of the developing 13-mile "Loop the Locks" network, connecting five communities and emphasizing the Fox River's industrial past. Keep an eye out for wildlife, as eagles are sometimes spotted, especially near dusk and dawn.