Beginner’s Roadmap to Wisconsin Mountain Biking

The great thing about mountain biking is that it doesn’t require mountains! The exercise, adrenaline, and memories of ripping through heavily forested single tracks as a couple or with a group of friends can be experienced almost anywhere in Wisconsin and on any budget. With campsites at or near many of the state’s well-maintained trails, you may want to use some of those vacation days. Check below for some destination inspiration.

Hartman Creek State Park – Waupaca

Located northwest of the Fox Cities, Hartman Creek offers 103 family campsites and five group campsites, plus a system of easy, intermediate and difficult bike trails – ideal for a mixed group of beginners and veterans. The hard-pack dirt trails are fast, winding and with a few low-hanging tree branches, so don’t forget your helmet and gloves. This remote atmosphere has a great group feel, so bring friends and fit campfire time into your stay.

Blue Mound State Park – Blue Mounds

For those who are up for the challenge, the trails at Blue Mound State Park are 10 miles of exciting roots and rock. Rider reviews say that while the trail is more difficult and technical, it offers fun descents and scenic views. 

The park offers 77 wooded campsites, 12 bike-in sites and includes bathroom and shower facilities. It’s also the only state park with a pool, so you and your crew can jump in and cool off after cruising the trails.

Levis Mounds – Neillsville

With 30 trail miles of varied experience levels through an elevation range of 300 feet, this nothing-but-nature playground guarantees refreshing scenery for those from nearby cities. With this terrain, you’ll want a bike with a quality suspension package; remember to preload your shocks so they perform at their best. Also, a pair of padded bike shorts goes a long way to prevent seat soreness.

Neighboring Russell Memorial Campground offers space and amenities perfect for extending your stay.

Chequamegon Area Mountain Bike Association (CAMBA) Trail System – Hayward

Can you say road trip? Head north to hit your pick of up to seven trail clusters – not trails, but clusters of trails totaling 300 miles. Starting in Hayward, extending north to Delta and with a stray portion in Bayfield, the CAMBA trail system won’t be conquered in just one day.

Make sure to take advantage of Rock Lake Trail on the Cable cluster, which has earned the International Mountain Bike Association’s “Epic Ride” designation. After a long endurance day, snuggle into one of the nearby secluded campsites.

From beginner to advanced mountain bicyclist, Wisconsin has trails to fit all your needs. Load up your bike and your buddies and head to one of our many trail systems.

Ready for refreshing outdoor fun? Check trail conditions and know before you go with the Wisconsin Trail Report.