Great River Trail
The Great River State Trail is a 24-mile (39 km) rail trail between Onalaska and Marshland, Wisconsin.
It is one of four connecting bike trails in west-central Wisconsin that spans approximately one-third of the state. The trail gets its name for running along the Mississippi River, hence “Great River” State Trail. It is part of the larger Wisconsin bike trail system, operated by the state of Wisconsin.[1]
The Great River State Trail connects to the La Crosse River Trail in Onalaska.
The four connecting west central Wisconsin trails, known as the Bike 4 Trails, going from southeast to northwest are:
- the 400 State Trail (22 mi or 35 km)
- the Elroy-Sparta State Trail (32 mi or 51 km)
- the La Crosse River State Trail (22 mi or 35 km)
- the Great River State Trail (24 mi or 39 km)
The trail headquarters is located in Onalaska and is open from May 1 through October 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.[2]
The trail is constructed upon the abandoned Chicago and North Western Railway railroad bed. It features 18 bridges that cross over streams feeding into the Mississippi River. It provides visitors with easy access to Perrot State Park and the Trempealeau National Wildlife Refuge.[3] The Great River State Trail passes through the Mississippi Flyway and is frequented by bird watchers.[4]
The Great River State Trail is one of the many rail trails, and is 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.[5]
See also
References
- ^ “Great River State Trail” River Valley Bike Trails, “The La Crosse Tribune”.
- ^ "Trail Passes" Discover Onalaska, Onalaska Tourism Commission, Onalaska, 2014.
- ^ “Great River State Trail” Travel Wisconsin, Wisconsin Department of Tourism, 2014.
- ^ "Biking" Discover Onalaska, Onalaska Tourism Commission, Onalaska, 2014.
- ^ "Great River State Trail", Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, Madison, 17 Oct. 2014.
External links
- Official website including history and campground information and maps
- Elroy Sparta Trail Guidebook The definitive source for the information needed to enjoy yourself on this beautiful bicycle trail
- Wisconsin Elroy to Sparta State Trail (map)