The best road cycling routes in Squirrel River Pines State Natural Area

The area offers a range of road cycling routes, primarily featuring well-paved surfaces. You'll find options suitable for different fitness levels, from easy rides to more moderate challenges. The terrain often includes northern dry-mesic forests with large red and white pines, extensive wetland complexes, and views of the Squirrel River.

Yes, there is an easy route perfect for beginners or families. The Broken Bow Lake loop from Squirrel Island is a gentle 21.2-mile (34.2 km) ride that takes about 1 hour 43 minutes to complete, offering a pleasant experience through the natural setting.

For those seeking a moderate challenge, several routes are available. The Sunday Lake – South Placid Twin Lake loop from Buckskin Lake is a popular 27.5-mile (44.3 km) path with varied landscapes. Another option is the Sunday Lake loop from North Placid Twin Lake, which covers 26.4 miles (42.5 km) through characteristic forests and wetlands. The Katherine Lake loop from Town of Hazelhurst is a longer moderate option at 36.5 miles (58.8 km), and the Dollar Lake loop from Hazelhurst offers another moderate 27.2-mile (43.7 km) experience.

Road cycling routes in Squirrel River Pines State Natural Area showcase a unique northern dry-mesic forest with impressive stands of old, large red and white pines. You'll also encounter extensive wetland complexes and the slow-moving Squirrel River. The area is primarily focused on preserving its natural beauty, so facilities are limited, but the unspoiled landscape itself is the main attraction.

Yes, many of the road cycling routes in Squirrel River Pines State Natural Area are designed as loops, providing a convenient way to explore the region without retracing your path. Examples include the Broken Bow Lake loop, Sunday Lake loops, Katherine Lake loop, and Dollar Lake loop.

The best time for road cycling is typically during the warmer months when the weather is mild and the roads are clear of snow and ice. Spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery, especially with the changing foliage in autumn. Always check local weather conditions before heading out.

Squirrel River Pines State Natural Area is a habitat for various wildlife. You might spot characteristic species such as the pine warbler, red squirrel, and red-breasted nuthatch. Bald eagles have also been known to use the large pines as nesting sites, offering a chance for an exciting sighting.

The State Natural Area primarily focuses on preserving its natural features and has few public facilities. You should plan accordingly, as restrooms, picnic areas, or cafes are generally not available directly along the routes. It's advisable to bring your own water and snacks.

For general information about the Squirrel River Pines State Natural Area and its conservation efforts, you can visit the official Wisconsin DNR website: dnr.wisconsin.gov/topic/statenaturalareas/SquirrelRiverPines.

There are 5 road cycling routes available in Squirrel River Pines State Natural Area, offering a variety of distances and difficulty levels for cyclists to explore.

Road cyclists frequently praise the area for its distinctive natural beauty, particularly the old-growth pine forests and serene wetland landscapes. The well-maintained, mostly paved surfaces and the variety of routes catering to different fitness levels are also highly appreciated by the komoot community.