Elroy-Sparta State Trail
check with the trail manager for updated details before visiting.
Elroy-Sparta State Trail
State
Rail Trail
- Length
32 miles
- Elevation Gain
--
- Route Type
out & back
(1 review)
- Length
32 miles - Elevation Gain
-- - Route Type
out & back
The first rail-trail conversion in Wisconsin dating from 1967. This 32 mile lineal trail passes through three railroad tunnels in southwest Wisconsin and is now part of 101 miles of converted Chicago Northwestern Railway grade in the region. The trail is used for hiking, biking and snowmobiling. It is operated and maintained as part of the Wisconsin State Park and Trails system.
Tunnel Number 1 between Kendall and Wilton WI.
Birds going for ride. Photo by Greg Walther.
Scaring the monsters from the tunnel. Photo by Greg Walther.
View from trail bridge. Photo by Greg Walther.
Location: Rural-links the communities of Elroy, Kendall, Wilton, Norwalk and Sparta
- States: Wisconsin
- Counties: Juneau, Monroe
- Cities/Townships: Elroy, Kendall, Wilton, Norwalk and Sparta
The first rail-trail conversion in Wisconsin dates from 1967. This 32-mile lineal trail passes through three railroad tunnels in southwest Wisconsin and is now part of 101 miles of converted Chicago Northwestern Railway grade in the region. The trail is used for hiking, biking, and snowmobiling. It is operated and maintained as part of the Wisconsin State Park and Trails system.
Considered the first rail-to-trail in the United States, the Elroy-Sparta State Trail remains one of the most popular trails in the country. With three rock tunnels and five small towns along its 32.5-mile route, the trail is a favorite Wisconsin bicycling destination. Traveling between Sparta and Elroy, the trail stretches through the communities of Norwalk, Wilton, and Kendall, passing by wetlands, prairies, farmland, and unglaciated areas.
Three railroad tunnels highlight the trail which are each over 140 years old. The tunnels near Kendall and Wilton are each about 0.25 miles long. The tunnel between Norwalk and Sparta is 0.75 miles long. Flashlights and jackets are recommended in the tunnels. The tunnels are dark and cool, even on the brightest days and water from springs above the tunnels can trickle onto the trail. Bikers should walk bikes through the tunnels.
Accessibility Information
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Reviews
Best WI has to offer
This is my absolute favorite family bike. Kids love the tunnels! It doesn't get any better than this! A great way to experience the Driftless Area.
Allowed Uses:
Bicycling Dogs, on leash Hiking/Walking Motorized vehicles, snowmobilingOther Activities
- Camping
- Fishing
- Snow, snow play general
Public Contact
Andrew HaffeleWisconsin Dept. of Natural Resources-Parks
E13660 Hwy. 33 East
Ontario, WI 54651
[email protected] • (608) 337-4775
Contact the trail manager for current maps and visiting details.
More Details
- Elevation (low): 812
- Elevation (high): 1200
- Elevation (cumulative): --
- Part of a Trail System? No
- Surface (primary): Rock, crushed
- Surfaces (additional): --
- Tread Width (average): 120"
- Tread Width (minimum): --
- Running length (minimum): --
- Tread Grade (average, percent): 1
- Tread Grade (maximum): 3
- Running length (maximum): --
- Cross-slope (average, percent): --
- Cross-slope (maximum): --
- Running length (maximum): --
- Certified as an NRT
Jun 1, 1971