The best traffic-free bike rides around Portage

There are 10 easy no-traffic touring cycling routes around Portage featured in this guide, all designed for a relaxed and enjoyable ride away from vehicular traffic.

The routes around Portage offer a diverse landscape shaped by glacial activity, featuring wetlands, forests, and numerous lakes. While many no-traffic routes are relatively flat, some areas like the Baraboo Hills (a short distance away) offer more challenging terrain with significant elevation changes, though these are typically on separate, dedicated cycling paths or quiet country roads.

Yes, several routes are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. For example, the Milham Road Bridge loop from Portage is a great option, covering about 14 kilometers. Another slightly longer loop is the Bishop's Bog Preserve loop from Celebration! Cinema Crossroads & IMAX, which is around 25.7 kilometers.

Many routes offer scenic views of the region's natural beauty. You might pass by areas like the Bishop's Bog Preserve, known for its unique natural environment, or through forests such as the Al Sabo Preserve and Lillian Anderson Arboretum. The historic Portage Canal, connecting the Fox and Wisconsin Rivers, is also a significant landmark in the area.

Absolutely. All 10 routes in this guide are rated as easy, making them suitable for families and cyclists of varying skill levels. The focus on no-traffic paths ensures a safer and more relaxed experience for everyone. The relatively flat terrain on many routes is ideal for a leisurely family outing.

Many trailheads and starting points offer convenient parking. For instance, the Kal-Haven Trailhead Red Caboose is a known parking location. Routes like the Milham Road Bridge loop from Harbors West park also indicate accessible starting points with potential parking facilities.

Spring, summer, and fall generally offer the best conditions for touring cycling in Portage. Spring brings blooming landscapes, summer provides warm weather for longer rides, and fall showcases beautiful foliage. Always check local weather conditions before heading out.

The komoot community rates the no-traffic touring routes around Portage highly, with an average score of 3.96 stars. Reviewers often praise the peacefulness of the dedicated paths, the scenic natural surroundings, and the accessibility of these easy routes for a relaxing ride.

Yes, Portage is near significant state trails. The Glacial River Trail, a 55.8-mile path winding through farmlands, prairies, wetlands, and woodlands, is a notable option for longer no-traffic touring. The 400 State Trail is another crushed stone trail in the vicinity that offers extended car-free riding.

While the immediate no-traffic paths might not have cafes directly on them, many routes are easily accessible from Portage, which offers various amenities including cafes, restaurants, and accommodation options. Planning your route to pass through or near the city center will provide opportunities for refreshments and breaks.