- Elroy-Sparta State Trail
The Elroy-Sparta Bike Trail is a convert|32|mi|adj=on|sp=us
rail trail between Elroy and Sparta,Wisconsin .It is one of four connecting bike trails in west-central Wisconsin that spans approximately one-third of the state. The trail is known for its rural scenery and three tunnels. It is part of the larger Wisconsin bike trail system, operated by the state of Wisconsin.
The Elroy-Sparta bike trail connects to the
400 Trail in Elroy and theLa Crosse River Trail in Sparta.The four connecting west central Wisconsin trails, known as the Bike 4 Trails, going from southeast to northwest are:
*the
400 Trail (convert|22|mi|disp=slash|abbr=on)
*the Elroy-Sparta Trail (convert|32|mi|disp=slash|abbr=on)
*theLa Crosse River Trail (convert|22|mi|disp=slash|abbr=on)
*theGreat River Trail (convert|25|mi|disp=slash|abbr=on)The trail headquarters is located in Kendall on
Wisconsin Highway 71 and is open fromMay 1 throughOctober 31 .There is a $4.00 per day fee for use of the trail if one does not have the $20.00 yearly Wisconsin bike trail pass. Bike lights are advisable even on the brightest summer days when going into the long unlit tunnels. Camping, lodging, food, parking, bike rentals and information are available at many points along the trail.
The trail is constructed upon the abandoned
Chicago and North Western Railway railroad bed and passes through three rock tunnels. The Kendall and Wilton tunnels (closest to Elroy) are convert|0.25|mi|m each and the Norwalk tunnel (closest to Sparta) is convert|0.75|mi. The trail is not paved but is smooth and covered with packed crushedlimestone .The trail has a mostly moderate downhill slope (grade) from Sparta to Elroy.
The Elroy-Sparta Bike trail is one of the many
rail trail s, or converted railway rights-of-way to paths designed for foot, bicycle, equestrian or light motorized traffic. It is designated as a multiuse trail, offering recreational access to the routes, and is open to the public.See also
* List of rail trails
External links
* [http://www.elroy-sparta-trail.com/ Official website] including history and campground information and maps
* [http://www.elroysparta.com/ Elroy Sparta Trail Guidebook] The definitive source for the information needed to enjoy yourself on this beautiful bicycle trail
* [http://www.gpsies.com/map.do?fileId=zinniftfaxspgrki Wisconsin Elroy to Sparta State Trail (map)]
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