The Elroy-Sparta Trail Offers 32.5 Extraordinary Miles of Biking

Biking The Elroy-Sparta Trail Near our Cabins in WisconsinThough travel around the country has been impacted, getaways here at our secluded and luxurious Wisconsin Bed and Breakfast and cabins are still popular.  We’re situated on 200 stunning acres of the Driftless Region, and near top attractions like the Elroy-Sparta trail. Social distancing is a natural part of our day, and we’d love to share our little slice of paradise with you this summer.

Wake up to the sights and sounds of summer, spend your days walking our trails, playing a round or two of disc golf, biking popular area trails like the Elroy-Sparta Trail or hiking in places like Wildcat Mountain State Park, and at night relax and unwind around the warm glow of the fire.  Justin Trails Resort offers you the perfect place to relax, unwind, and enjoy a slower change of pace and a stunning change in scenery.  And, right now, we think that’s something everyone can enjoy!  Experience a few days in our Wisconsin paradise – Book your room at our Wisconsin Bed and Breakfast today!

A Unique Experience on the Elroy-Sparta Trail

WIth four-seasons of nothing but fun and relaxation, our Wisconsin resort and cabins are truly an all-encompassing destination.  We pride ourselves on offering exceptional hospitality to our guests, welcoming you into our family while you’re here.  With plenty of opportunities to enjoy this peaceful and naturally beautiful setting, many of our guests find no reason to leave our property for the duration of their stay.

Others, though, love to take the opportunity to get out and explore this uniquely hilly and beautiful part of the state.  And, with great areas to explore, like Wildcat Mountain State Park, the Kickapoo Valley Reserve, and the state’s popular Elroy-Sparta Trail, we completely understand why.

By far, one of the most popular attractions in the area is the Elroy-Sparta Trail. The trail travels for 32.5 beautiful miles between the towns of Elroy and Sparta, and through the scenic heart of the Driftless Region in Wisconsin.  It was completed in 1967 and is considered the oldest rail-trail in the country. It’s also one of the most popular, thanks in part to the incredible beauty enjoyed along these 32.5 miles. If you’ve never been to the Driftless Region of Wisconsin, you’re in for a pleasant surprise as you navigate the length of this incredible bike trail.

Biking The Elroy-Sparta Trail Near our Cabins in Wisconsin

What to Expect on the Elroy-Sparta Bike Trail

The Elroy-Sparta trail passes through the communities of Norwalk, Wilton, and Kendall, and as you travel from one end to the other, you’ll not only pass through 3 historic railroad tunnels, but you’ll meander through a variety of beautiful habitat, including wetlands, prairies, farmland, and unglaciated areas. These features are what give the Driftless Region its endless charm, but it’s also part of what makes this trail a little more challenging that you might expect.  Most bike trails in Wisconsin are pretty flat. Not this one!  The Elroy-Sparta plenty of ups and downs along its length, with a total elevation gain of 1.162 feet.  Don’t worry though; the grade is never more than 3%.

The three railroad tunnels are each over 140 years old, and they are a fascinating and popular part of the journey.  People will often stop at the tunnels to catch their breath and admire the historic beauty standing before them. Two of the tunnels, those nearest Kendall and Wilton, are around 1/4 mile in length.  The tunnel between Norwalk and Sparta, however, is 3/4 of a mile long.

You can expect these tunnels to be dark and cool – so jackets and flashlights are always recommended when traveling along the trail.  It’s best that you get off your bike and walk through the tunnels, as you really won’t be able to see well enough to ride.  On a hot day, the tunnels often welcome respite from the sun!

There are also plenty of amenities along the trail – think bathrooms, water, and food.  That’s one of the many things that make it such a great family-friendly destination! And, if you want to extend your biking journey, there are plenty of options. The Elroy-Sparta Trail also connects up to the La Crosse River State Trail, the 400 State Trail, the Great River State Trail, The Hillsboro State Trail, and the Omaha County Trail. There are over 100 miles of bike trails here, not to mention miles of scenic rural roads in the area. A State Trail Pass is required to use to Elroy-Sparta Trail and the others in the area.

If you don’t want to bring your own bike to the area, you can rent one, and arrange for a shuttle, at Speed’s Bicycle Shop in Sparta.

Biking The Elroy-Sparta Trail Near our Cabins in Wisconsin

Stay at the Best Cabins in Wisconsin

There’s little doubt in our minds that the Driftless Region in Wisconsin should be at the top of your list for summer vacations this year. If you plan to come to the area for the great biking, hiking, and scenery, make your trip complete by staying in one of our incredible pet-friendly and family-friendly cabins in Wisconsin.  Our cabins are only 6 miles from the start of the Elroy-Sparta trail, which makes us the perfect place to stay while you’re out exploring the area.

Each of our Wisconsin cabins are well-appointed and private, with their own deck or balcony to sit back and relax on, while you take in the views of our beautiful and secluded Wisconsin paradise. We love celebrating the end of another beautiful day in Wisconsin around the bonfire, enjoying the dark, star-filled skies above.  It’s one of the many resort amenities we offer! When you’re here, it really is all about relaxation and soaking up the beauty of the world we live in.  This summer, come experience life at our luxury resort and cabins in Wisconsin.  Book your room today!

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