Emma Carlin Trails loop from Young Prairie State Natural Area
Emma Carlin Trails loop from Young Prairie State Natural Area
4.8
(3419)
7,929
riders
Emma Carlin Trails loop from Young Prairie State Natural Area
02:58
36.1km
230m
Mountain biking
Hard mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary. Some portions of the route may require you to push your bike. The starting point of the route is right next to a parking lot.
Last updated: May 22, 2026
Tips
Includes a segment in which cycling is not permitted
After 23.2 km for 94 m
Waypoints
Start point
Parking
Get Directions
16.0 km
Kettle Moraine State Forest - South
Highlight • Forest
Tip by
21.9 km
Emma Carlin Trails
Highlight • Trail
Tip by
36.1 km
End point
Parking
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
33.3 km
2.14 km
675 m
Surfaces
33.3 km
2.43 km
388 m
Sign up to see more specific route details
Sign up for free
Elevation
Sign up to see more specific route details
Sign up for free
Weather
Powered by Foreca
Today
Thursday 25 June
24°C
14°C
65 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 15.0 km/h
to get more detailed weather forecasts along your route
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Description
If you're looking for a challenging mountain biking experience in Wisconsin, the Emma Carlin Trails loop from Young Prairie State Natural Area delivers. This difficult 19.2-mile (30.9 km) route packs in 640 feet (195 metres) of elevation gain, taking roughly 2 hours and 31 minutes to complete. It's a prime choice for intermediate to advanced riders seeking technical singletrack and a good workout.
What to expect on Emma Carlin Trails loop from Young Prairie State Natural Area
Expect a dynamic ride through a beautiful hardwood forest, with sections of pine stands adding to the scenic variety. The Emma Carlin Trails are known for their hilly terrain, featuring numerous short climbs, steep descents, and switchbacks that keep you on your toes. You'll navigate roots, rocks, and loose surfaces, especially on the more challenging Green Loop, which also offers a rewarding scenic overlook of Spring Lake and Palmyra. This route demands good fitness and advanced riding skills, providing an "all-mountain" feel that sets it apart from other trails in the region.
Planning your visit
Accessing the Emma Carlin Trails from Young Prairie State Natural Area is straightforward, with a well-equipped trailhead offering parking, water, and vault toilets. Keep in mind that a state trail pass and vehicle sticker are required for use. The trails are one-way for mountain bikers, ridden counter-clockwise, and are typically open from mid-April to mid-February. Always check for closures during wet conditions, as the trail tread can be sensitive. Arriving early is always a good idea, especially on busy weekends, to secure parking and enjoy the trails.
Trail details
- Distance: 19.2 miles (30.9 km)
- Elevation gain: 640 feet (195 metres)
- Difficulty: difficult
- Estimated time: 2 hours and 31 minutes
Comments
Want to know more?
Sign up for a free komoot account to join the conversation.
Sign up for free