The best cycling routes in Chippewa County

Chippewa County offers a diverse selection of over 25 touring cycling routes. These routes cater to various skill levels, with 18 easy, 8 moderate, and 1 difficult option to explore.

You'll experience a rich variety of landscapes, from wooded areas and riverfronts to picturesque lake views. Many routes follow abandoned railroad grades, offering scenic paths through prairies, sandstone bluffs, and wetlands. Expect rolling terrain through oak and aspen forests, especially in areas like the Hickory Ridge Recreation Area, which also features kettle lakes.

Yes, Chippewa County has numerous family-friendly options. Many of the 18 easy routes are suitable for families. The Bridge across Eau Claire River – Phoenix Park loop from River Prairie is a shorter, easy route, perfect for a leisurely family outing. The Old Abe State Trail, while longer, is paved and generally flat, making sections of it great for families.

Absolutely. Many of the routes are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Popular circular routes include the State Park Beach loop from Lake Hallie, the Phoenix Park – Bridge across Eau Claire River loop from Seymour, and the Chippewa River Bridge – Owen Park loop from Robin Rd & Melby St.

Several routes offer convenient access to amenities. The Old Abe State Trail, for example, allows for stops at places like Dylan's Dairy for food and ice cream, or the Wisconsin Veteran Farm and Winery. The Chippewa Falls Riverfront features paved trails that lead directly into downtown Chippewa Falls, where you'll find a variety of restaurants and shops.

Chippewa County is rich in attractions. You can cycle near or through areas like Irvine Park & Zoo, which offers trails above the zoo and around Glen Loch Lake, and is known for its accessible nature and free entry to see bison and elk. Brunet Island State Park and Lake Wissota State Park also offer additional trails and scenic views. The Xcel Energy Dam is another notable landmark visible from trails like Area 178 – Riverview Reserve Trail.

The spring, summer, and fall months generally offer the best conditions for touring cycling in Chippewa County, with pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery. Fall is particularly beautiful with changing foliage. While some trails are suitable for winter activities like skiing, dedicated touring cycling is best enjoyed outside of heavy snow seasons.

Yes, Chippewa County is very welcoming to beginners, with 18 easy routes available. Routes like the Burnt Wagen Lake – Horseshoe lake loop from Horseshoe lake or the Riverside Island Pavilion – 3 Ponds Park loop from North High School are excellent choices for those new to touring cycling, offering manageable distances and minimal elevation changes.

The routes in Chippewa County are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.0 stars from over 8 reviews. Cyclists often praise the diverse landscapes, well-maintained trails, and the ability to connect with nature while still having access to local amenities and attractions.

Many trails in Chippewa County pass through natural habitats, offering opportunities for wildlife spotting. The Chippewa River State Trail, for instance, follows the river through wetlands and prairies, which are prime areas for observing various bird species and other local wildlife. Trails in Lake Wissota State Park also traverse woods, meadows, and marshes, increasing your chances of seeing animals in their natural environment.

Yes, parking is generally available at various access points for the major trail systems in Chippewa County. For example, the Old Abe State Trail has designated parking areas in towns like Chippewa Falls and Cornell. State parks like Lake Wissota State Park and Brunet Island State Park also provide parking facilities for trail users.

While specific public transport links directly to every trailhead might be limited, some urban sections of trails, particularly around Chippewa Falls and Eau Claire, may be accessible via local bus services. For longer, more rural trails, personal vehicle transport to a trailhead is often the most convenient option.