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Cycling routes
United States
Wisconsin
Waukesha County

Butler

The best cycling routes around Butler

By Fede from komoot

·

Updated June 1, 2026

If you've ever tried to plan touring cycling around Butler, you know how overwhelming the options can be. Sifting through countless routes to find the ones genuinely worth your time and effort, separating the highlights from the filler, can feel like a full-time job. We get it – you want to know what's actually good, not just what's available. That's where komoot comes in. Our community has mapped, ridden, and reviewed the best touring cycling routes in Butler, and we've distilled that collective wisdom into a curated shortlist, saving you the guesswork.

Touring cycling in Butler is all about embracing the region's diverse landscape. Expect a mix of rolling hills, dense woodlands, and scenic waterways, offering everything from gentle, level paths to routes with more challenging climbs. The area truly shines with its dedicated rail-trails and the beautiful routes winding through state parks like Moraine State Park, centered around Lake Arthur. While many trails are suitable for all skill levels, the varied terrain means you can always find a ride to match your mood.

If you only do one ride, make it the Butler-Freeport Community Trail. This 21.0 miles (33.8 km) rail-trail is a local favorite for a reason, offering a generally level surface and scenic views of farmland – perfect for a relaxed day out. For a different vibe, the Moraine State Park Bike Trail is an easy 7.1 miles (11.4 km) paved path along the north shore of Lake Arthur, providing beautiful scenery and a refreshing lakeside breeze. With more than 270 touring cyclists having explored Butler with komoot, you're in good company. Start exploring these top-rated routes and discover your own favorites.

If you only do 3 of these routes

  1. 1

    Hoyt Park Footbridge loop from Butler
  2. 2

    Milwaukee Pierhead Lighthouse – Hank Aaron State Trail loop from Milwaukee County Zoo
  3. 3

    Hank Aaron State Trail – Hank Aaron Trail loop from Milwaukee County Zoo

Compare these routes at a glance

Trail

Distance

Elevation

Difficulty

Hoyt Park Footbridge loop from Butler

19.4 km

50 m

Easy

Milwaukee Pierhead Lighthouse – Hank Aaron State Trail loop from Milwaukee County Zoo

46.7 km

190 m

Moderate

Hank Aaron State Trail – Hank Aaron Trail loop from Milwaukee County Zoo

16.7 km

70 m

Easy

Pebble Beach – Lakeshore State Park loop from Medical College of Wisconsin

101 km

360 m

Hard

Bike loop from Mount Mary University

22.3 km

110 m

Easy

Hoyt Park Footbridge loop from Mount Mary University

14.1 km

50 m

Easy

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1.

Hoyt Park Footbridge loop from Butler

19.4km

01:07

50m

50m

The Hoyt Park Footbridge loop offers a wonderfully accessible touring cycling experience, primarily on paved surfaces that make for a smooth and enjoyable ride. As you cycle, you'll pass through the gentle landscapes characteristic of the Butler region, with glimpses of farmlands and open spaces. This route is designed for ease, making it a perfect Hoyt Park cycling loop for family friendly outings or anyone new to touring cycling.

When planning your visit, you'll find this route highly accessible, with no complex Hoyt Park parking public transport permits required. The entire Butler touring cycling trail duration is just over an hour, making it easy to fit into a busy day. It's suitable for all fitness levels, and you can start at your convenience, though mornings often offer cooler temperatures.

This particular route stands out for its high accessibility and ease, making it a popular choice among local cyclists. The Hoyt Park Footbridge loop review from the Komoot community reflects its positive reception, with an average rating of 4.8 stars. It's an excellent Butler touring cycling beginner route, providing a pleasant and undemanding way to explore the area.

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2.

Milwaukee Pierhead Lighthouse – Hank Aaron State Trail loop from Milwaukee County Zoo

46.7km

02:45

190m

190m

This touring bicycle loop offers a fantastic cross-section of Milwaukee, transitioning from the peaceful, wooded sections near the Milwaukee County Zoo to the revitalized Menomonee Valley. You'll cycle past restored prairies, industrial areas, and even get views of landmarks like the Harley-Davidson Museum before reaching the stunning lakefront. The route culminates at the Milwaukee Pierhead Lighthouse, providing expansive vistas of Lake Michigan and the city skyline.

To tackle this moderate 29.0-mile (46.7 km) ride, which includes a gentle 637 feet (194 metres) of elevation gain and takes about 2 hours and 44 minutes, you'll want to start from the Milwaukee County Zoo. The trail is mostly paved and well-maintained, but be prepared for some on-street segments in urban areas where traffic awareness is key. No special permits are needed for the Hank Aaron State Trail sections.

The Hank Aaron State Trail is a testament to urban transformation, converting former industrial land into green spaces and connecting various cultural landmarks. It's a great option for cyclists looking for a diverse experience, blending natural river valley landscapes with vibrant city environments and historical sites, all while enjoying accessible, mostly flat terrain.

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4.

Pebble Beach – Lakeshore State Park loop from Medical College of Wisconsin

101km

05:48

360m

360m

The Pebble Beach – Lakeshore State Park loop from Medical College of Wisconsin offers a substantial touring cycling experience, blending cityscapes with natural beauty. You'll navigate Milwaukee's urban environment before reaching the unique Lakeshore State Park, where paved paths provide stunning panoramic views of Lake Michigan and the city skyline. Keep an eye out for the charming Pebble Beach and the genuine Wisconsin prairies within the park, a true urban oasis.

This difficult 62.8-mile (101.1 km) route involves 1180 feet (360 metres) of elevation gain and typically takes around 5 hours and 48 minutes to complete. The Lakeshore State Park section is generally flat and easy, but the overall distance and climbing demand good endurance. The park's trails are open 24 hours, and it connects to Milwaukee's wider bike network, offering options for longer rides.

Lakeshore State Park stands out as Wisconsin's sole urban state park, providing a peaceful escape right in the heart of the city. It's a fantastic spot for birdwatching, with over 170 species recorded, and its lagoons are popular for kayaking. The park's design beautifully contrasts native flora with the surrounding skyscrapers, making it a unique destination for cycling and photography.

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5.

Bike loop from Mount Mary University

22.3km

01:19

110m

110m

Exploring cycling routes near Mount Mary University Milwaukee offers a chance to connect with the city's extensive bike trail network. While not a named, dedicated loop, a ride from the university could lead you onto paved paths like the Menomonee River Parkway, providing a pleasant touring cycling experience. You'll encounter a mix of urban green spaces and suburban stretches, with generally flat terrain and opportunities to see local Milwaukee scenery.

This easy route covers approximately 13.9 miles (22.3 km) with a minimal 358 feet (109 metres) of elevation gain, making it achievable in about 1 hour and 18 minutes. For parking, look for public lots or street parking near trailheads that connect to the university area. The Milwaukee cycling network is generally accessible, and you'll find the best conditions for riding from late spring through early autumn.

Milwaukee is known for its commitment to cycling, offering a variety of popular cycling loops Milwaukee residents enjoy, such as sections of the Oak Leaf Trail. Starting from Mount Mary University allows you to tap into this broader system, providing a convenient entry point to explore different parts of the city by bike. It's a great way to experience the local environment and connect with other trails.

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Tips from the Community

David Howells
June 28, 2025, Hank Aaron Trail

This 15.6 mile shared used paved trail is named after the baseball legend Hank Aaron. It provides a continuous connection between American Family Field, home of the Milwaukee Brewers, and the Lake Michigan lakefront.

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This area featuring seasonal exhibitions of live reptiles and amphibians, along with guided tours assisting in plant identification, this beautiful location is perfect for exploring on foot.

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Billed as "the most accessible beach in America" and as one of the cleanest beaches in the country, this spot can get pretty busy. It's free for day use and has a couple of on-site spots for food and refreshments.

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The Hank Aaron State Trail is a 14-mile paved shared-use path running through the heart of Milwaukee with great views of the Milwaukee River and the city skyline.

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View of the Milwaukee river as it crosses under the Hoan Bridge at a very active boat landing.

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Andrus
January 10, 2025, Hoyt Park Footbridge

The Hoyt Park Footbridge dates back to the 1939 and the New Deal. The CCC built countless projects across the country in order to drive recovery from the Great Depression and this beautiful bridge is part of that legacy.

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The Milwaukee Art Museum is known for its striking architecture, especially the Burke Brise Soleil, which opens and closes like wings. Don’t miss the stunning views of Lake Michigan from the museum’s café. With rotating exhibitions and an impressive permanent collection, it’s worth taking your time to explore both the art and the building itself.

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Take a short break during your ride and enjoy sweeping views of Lake Michigan with a fresh breeze.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How many touring cycling routes are available in Butler?

There are over 15 touring cycling routes around Butler, offering a variety of experiences. These include dedicated rail-trails, scenic rural roads, and paths through state parks and along lakes, catering to different ability levels.

Are there easy touring cycling routes suitable for beginners in Butler?

Yes, Butler offers several easy touring cycling routes perfect for beginners. For instance, the Moraine State Park Bike Trail is an easy 7.1-mile paved multi-use trail along Lake Arthur, providing beautiful scenery. The Sanctuary Woods – Sanctuary Woods loop from Wauwatosa is another easy option.

Are there any longer or more challenging touring cycling routes in Butler?

For those seeking longer or more challenging rides, Butler County provides options with rolling hills and significant elevation changes. The Moraine Lake loop, mentioned in regional research, is a more difficult 65.6-mile route offering extensive lake views. While not explicitly in the provided routes, the Milwaukee Pierhead Lighthouse – Hank Aaron State Trail loop from Milwaukee County Zoo is a moderate 29-mile route that offers a good challenge.

What are the best seasons for touring cycling in Butler?

The autumn months are particularly vibrant for touring cycling in Butler, especially along trails like the Moraine State Park Bike Trail, where the trees showcase their fall foliage. Spring and summer also offer pleasant conditions for exploring the region's natural beauty.

Are there family-friendly touring cycling routes in Butler?

Many of Butler's trails are suitable for families. The Butler-Freeport Community Trail, a 21-mile rail-trail with a generally level surface, is an excellent choice for families. The paved multi-use trail in Moraine State Park is also very family-friendly.

Can I bring my dog on touring cycling routes in Butler?

While specific cycling route rules for dogs can vary, many multi-use trails in the region are dog-friendly, provided dogs are kept on a leash. Succop Nature Park, for example, offers dog-friendly walking trails. It's always best to check specific trail regulations before heading out with your pet.

Are there any circular touring cycling routes in Butler?

Yes, Butler offers several circular touring cycling routes. The Hoyt Park Footbridge loop from Butler is an easy 12-mile circular route. Another option is the Menomonee Park loop from Menomonee Falls, which is about 9.8 miles long.

What can I see along the touring cycling routes in Butler?

Along Butler's touring cycling routes, you can enjoy diverse landscapes including farmlands, rolling hills, and picturesque lakes. Specific points of interest include the Hoyt Park Footbridge, Menomonee Park, and scenic views of Lake Evinrude. Moraine State Park, with its centerpiece Lake Arthur, offers beautiful scenery and opportunities for bird watching.

Are there cafes or facilities near the bike trails in Butler?

Yes, some trails offer convenient facilities. The Derailleur Bike Shop Cafe is located steps from the Butler-Freeport Community Trail, providing food, beverages, and bicycle repair services, making it a valuable stop for cyclists.

What do other touring cyclists enjoy about touring cycling in Butler?

The touring cycling routes in Butler are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 stars from over 28 reviews. Cyclists often praise the region's dedicated rail-trails, scenic rural roads, and the diverse terrain that caters to various skill levels.

How long does it take to cycle the Butler-Freeport Community Trail?

The Butler-Freeport Community Trail is 21.0 miles (33.8 km) long and typically takes about 2 hours and 30 minutes to complete, offering a generally level surface with scenic views of farmland.

Are there any trails that are part of a larger network?

Yes, a significant portion, 57 miles, of the North Country National Scenic Trail traverses Butler County, offering extensive hiking opportunities that can sometimes be combined with cycling on appropriate sections or nearby routes. The Hank Aaron State Trail is also part of a larger network.

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