The Elroy-Sparta State Trail: America’s First Rails-to-Trails Project

In 1965, the Elroy-Sparta State Trail became the first of its kind. The railway-turned-multi-use trail provides 32 miles of hiking, biking and snowmobiling adventure through forest, prairie, idyllic towns and even tunnels carved through rock. Since its opening, there are now over 2,000 rail-trails around the country, covering more than 25,000 miles.

Once a section of the Chicago and North Western Railway, steam locomotives hauled grain, livestock and passengers along this route from 1873 to 1964. Since then, it’s become one of the most popular recreational trails in the country — thousands of people travel the route every year.

Three unique rock tunnels are highlights along the trail, and they offer a refreshing break when pedaling the entire distance. Even on the hottest summer days, these tunnels remain dark and cool. Springs seep through the limestone and trickle down the walls.

Bicyclists are instructed to walk their bikes through the passages, and flashlights or headlamps are strongly encouraged as the longest tunnel is more than 3,800 feet long.

This spectacular trail links five communities through the unglaciated area of Wisconsin known as the Driftless Region. Home to charming atmospheres and local establishments, the communities of Elroy, Kendall, Wilton, Norwalk and Sparta cater to bicycle enthusiasts and hikers alike.

Here's another cool aspect of the Elroy-Sparta: The 32-mile stretch links to other state trails, totaling well over 100 miles of biking and hiking! From the Elroy Trailhead is The "400" State Trail, Hillsboro State Trail and the Juneau County Omaha Trail, while from the Sparta Trailhead is the La Crosse River State Trail which connects to the Great River State Trail.

People who use wheelchairs can enjoy the trail by entering at one of two designated accessible spaces along Main Street in Elroy at the southeast end of the trail.

Whether you're in it for the long haul or just to explore a small section, you can find everything from bike rentals to lodging to restaurants located along the Elroy-Sparta State Trail. Here are some places to check out on your next adventure on the original rails-to-trails route in Wisconsin.

Please note: A state trail pass is required to bike the Elroy-Sparta State Trail.

Bike Rentals

Elroy Commons, Elroy

Elroy Commons is a replica design of a former railroad depot at the hub of three separate bike trails (The Elroy-Sparta State Trail, the 400 State Trail and the Juneau County Omaha Trail). They rent single and tandem bikes and carts by the half-day (4-5 hours) or full day.

Tunnel Trail Campground, Wilton

Located along the Elroy-Sparta Trail halfway between Kendall and Wilton, Tunnel Trail rents mountain bikes, bike trailers, tandems, kids bikes and recumbent bikes by the hour or the day. Bike rentals are only available to campers, and they’re open May through October.

Speed's Bicycle Shop, Sparta

Open year-round, Speeds is a family-owned and operated rental shop that has everything from mountain bikes to kiddy trailers, tandems and e-bikes. They also provide shuttle services to the Elroy-Sparta and La Crosse River State Trails so that your group can ride as far as you like.

Dining

Hidden Inn Bar & Grill, Kendall 

Offering a large menu of sandwiches and appetizers, the Hidden Inn is known for its tasty charbroiled steaks and burgers. Picnic tables outside the building offer wheelchair-accessible seating.

Dorset Valley Schoolhouse Restaurant, Wilton

This restaurant and bakery operates within a historic schoolhouse and offers a wide variety of old-fashioned country cooking. The trailside gem is wheelchair accessible and is famous for its delicious Friday night fish fry.

Lodging

Wisconsin DNR Elroy and Sparta Campgrounds

Both of these campgrounds operated by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources have non-reservable sites with self-registration stations available to campers for a small fee. Each one offers campsites with a fire ring and picnic table. Hand pumps and pit toilets are available. All sites are walk-in tent campsites with no vehicle access — vehicles can be parked in adjacent lots. These sites are perfect for your biking adventure along the beloved trail.

Tunnel Trail Campground, Wilton

In addition to tent camping and RV hookups, Tunnel Trail also offers cabins, a heated pool, mini golf, laundry, bike rentals and an on-site grocery. Stay here with your crew and you’ll have everything you need for an unforgettable cycling adventure.

Looking for more cycling fun? Browse more biking in Wisconsin and check out the Wisconsin Trail Report for up-to-date bike trail conditions.