Capital Springs State Recreation Area- Upper Mud Lake Unit
Capital Springs State Recreation Area- Upper Mud Lake Unit
The best traffic-free bike rides in Capital Springs State Recreation Area- Upper Mud Lake Unit
4.4
(99)
3,009
riders
79
rides
No traffic road cycling routes in Capital Springs State Recreation Area- Upper Mud Lake Unit traverse a landscape characterized by wetlands, waterways, marshes, and sedge meadows. The terrain is generally flat, with minimal elevation changes, making it accessible for various skill levels. Cyclists can experience scenic lake views of Upper Mud Lake, which connects to the Yahara chain of lakes. This area is part of the larger Nine Springs Creek Watershed, offering diverse ecosystems for observation.
Best no traffic road cycling routes in Capital Springs State Recreation Area- Upper Mud Lake Unit
- The most popular no traffic road cycling route is Lake Wingra – Lake Wingra loop from Monona, a 15.0 miles (24.1 km) trail that takes 1 hour 11 minutes to complete, featuring views of Lake Wingra.
- Another top favourite among local road cyclists is Lake Monona Loop and Capital City Trail, a moderate 26.4 miles (42.5 km) path that includes sections of the Capital City State Trail.
- Local road cyclists also love the Paunack Park on Lake Monona – Bench With View of Lake Monona loop from Monona, a 15.1 miles (24.2 km) trail leading through areas with lake views, often completed in about 59 minutes.
- Road cycling in Capital Springs State Recreation Area- Upper Mud Lake Unit is defined by flat terrain, lake views, and extensive trail networks like the Capital City State Trail and Lower Yahara River Trail. The network offers options for different ability levels, from easy loops to moderate distances.
- The routes in Capital Springs State Recreation Area- Upper Mud Lake Unit are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 100 reviews. More than 2,700 road cyclists have used komoot to explore Capital Springs State Recreation Area- Upper Mud Lake Unit's varied terrain.
Last updated: July 10, 2026
73
riders
42.5km
02:01
170m
170m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
5.0
(1)
89
riders
24.2km
01:00
100m
100m
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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26
riders
60.0km
02:46
260m
260m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
6
riders
Moderate road ride. Great for any fitness level. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
11
riders
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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Popular around Capital Springs State Recreation Area- Upper Mud Lake Unit
Tips from the Community
Birthplace of City of Monona. Built originally as a garage, this brick structure served from 1932 to 1952 as the only neighborhood grocery. Operated by early settler Ernie Ferchland, the store served as a meeting place for Blooming Grove Township residents who planned the incorporation of the Village of Monona. Dissatisfied with the services being provided by the Township of Blooming Grove, five residents of the area - Ernie Ferchland, Ray Owen, Ed Rothman, Walter Simon and Justin Waterman - met in Ernie's Trading Post to discuss secession from the Township. With a $300 retainer, they secured legal service regarding the process. Community meetings were held over a span of five months and, in spite of some opposition, a referendum to secede was passed (241 to 171) on August 29, 1938. Incorporation papers were signed on 1938. September 1, Monona Village comprised an area of 1.75 sq. miles with 350 families, population of 1100, and an assessed evaluation of $1.5 million. It also contained seven miles of waterfront, fourteen miles of local streets, 3.5 mlles of state highway, five bridges, three school districts and eight park areas. Justin Waterman was elected the first village president.
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The University of Wisconsin–Madison Arboretum is a research and ecological protection site in Madison. It has several miles of trails and quiet roads that weave through the beautiful wood land. The centerpiece of the area is Lake Wingra.
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Explore Olbrich Park's scenic beauty with its stunning botanical gardens, Thai Pavilion, and serene Lake Monona. Enjoy walking trails, picnic areas, and diverse recreational facilities.
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The Capital City State Trail is a scenic multi-use path stretching over 17 miles, connecting Madison to various parks and natural areas. It's ideal for biking, hiking, and enjoying nature year-round.
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Sunfish Pond in Dane County is a tranquil, scenic pond perfect for reflections in nature while on a hike.
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Recognized for its cultural importance, the area was placed on the National Register of Historic Places and designated the Lake Farms Archaeological District in 1980. Explore the park's scenic trails, including the paved Capital City State Trail and Lower Yahara River Trail, suitable for hiking and cycling.
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The Lower Yahara River Bike Path offers beautiful views of Madison and its landscapes. At its western end, it connects to the Capital State Trail.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many no-traffic road cycling routes are available in Capital Springs State Recreation Area- Upper Mud Lake Unit?
There are over 70 dedicated no-traffic road cycling routes in the Capital Springs State Recreation Area- Upper Mud Lake Unit. These routes range from easy to moderate, offering diverse options for cyclists of all skill levels.
What makes the Capital Springs State Recreation Area- Upper Mud Lake Unit ideal for no-traffic road cycling?
The area is characterized by its generally flat terrain and extensive network of paved trails, including sections of the Capital City State Trail and the Lower Yahara River Trail. These trails are designed for low-impact, nature-based recreation, ensuring a peaceful and traffic-free cycling experience amidst wetlands, waterways, and scenic lake views.
Are there any easy no-traffic road cycling routes suitable for beginners?
Yes, many routes are designed for easy cycling. For instance, the Lake Wingra – Lake Wingra loop from Monona offers a gentle ride, covering about 24 km with minimal elevation changes. Another great option is the Paunack Park on Lake Monona – Bench With View of Lake Monona loop from Monona, which is also an easy 24 km ride.
What are the most scenic features I can expect to see while cycling?
Cyclists can enjoy diverse natural features, including wetlands, marshes, sedge meadows, and beautiful views of Upper Mud Lake, which is part of the Yahara chain of lakes. The Lower Yahara River Trail, in particular, features unique boardwalk sections along the river, offering picturesque vistas and opportunities for wildlife viewing.
Are the no-traffic road cycling routes family-friendly?
Absolutely. The flat terrain and dedicated paved trails, such as the Capital City State Trail, make the area very suitable for families. Many routes are easy to moderate, providing a safe and enjoyable environment for cyclists of all ages. You'll find plenty of space to ride without vehicle traffic concerns.
Is there parking available at the trailheads?
Yes, the Capital Springs State Recreation Area is cyclist-friendly and provides bicycle parking at various trailheads. This includes access points for popular routes and attractions like the disc golf course and Native American mound groups.
What do other road cyclists enjoy most about cycling here?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.44 out of 5 stars from over 100 ratings. Reviewers often praise the quiet, traffic-free nature of the trails, the beautiful lake views, and the well-maintained paved surfaces that make for a smooth and enjoyable ride.
Can I bring my dog on the no-traffic road cycling routes?
While the Capital Springs State Recreation Area is generally dog-friendly for activities like hiking, specific regulations may apply to dogs on paved cycling trails. It's always best to check local signage or the official Dane County Parks and Wisconsin DNR guidelines for the most current rules regarding pets on trails.
Are there any longer or more challenging no-traffic road cycling routes?
For those seeking a longer ride, the Lake Monona Loop and Capital City Trail offers a moderate 42.5 km journey. While the terrain remains relatively flat, the increased distance provides a good workout and extended scenic views around Lake Monona.
What is the best season for road biking in the Upper Mud Lake Unit?
The Capital Springs State Recreation Area is enjoyable for road cycling across multiple seasons. Spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures and vibrant natural colors. Summer is also popular, though it can be warmer. Winter cycling is possible for those prepared for colder conditions, with snowshoeing also being a popular activity in the area.
Are there any points of interest or attractions near the cycling routes?
Beyond the natural beauty, the Capital Springs State Recreation Area offers various points of interest. You can find Native American mound groups, disc golf courses, and opportunities for wildlife viewing. The Capital City State Trail connects to several of these attractions, making it easy to combine cycling with other activities. For more information on the broader recreation area, you can visit Visit Madison's Capital Springs Recreation Area page.
Most popular routes in Capital Springs State Recreation Area- Upper Mud Lake Unit
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