Devil's Lake Loop

Since the Devil's Lake Loop for touring bikes primarily uses public roads surrounding the state park, you can typically find parking in nearby towns like Baraboo or at designated public parking areas along the route. Within Devil's Lake State Park itself, parking is available, but remember that most internal park trails are not suitable for touring bikes.

If you are cycling on the public roads surrounding Devil's Lake State Park, general road rules apply regarding pets. Within the state park, dogs are typically allowed on leashes in most areas, but specific regulations may apply to certain trails or facilities. Always check the latest park rules if you plan to enter the park with your dog.

The spring and fall offer the most pleasant cycling conditions with cooler temperatures and beautiful scenery, especially with the fall foliage in the Baraboo Hills. Summer can be enjoyable but expect warmer weather and potentially more traffic. Winter cycling is possible but challenging due to snow and ice.

Cycling on the public roads around Devil's Lake State Park does not require a special permit or fee. However, if you plan to enter Devil's Lake State Park with a vehicle, a Wisconsin State Park vehicle admission sticker is required. This sticker covers entry to all Wisconsin State Parks.

The terrain for touring cycling around Devil's Lake is characterized by hilly and serpentine roads through the Baraboo Hills. Expect significant elevation changes, with some areas varying up to 400 feet. The routes primarily use paved county roads and highways, but some segments might include unpaved sections which can be challenging for touring bikes.

The road cycling routes around Devil's Lake State Park are generally considered moderate to hard due to substantial elevation gains and constant changes in elevation. They require good to very good fitness. Casual riders or beginners might find the hills strenuous, and caution is advised due to traffic, curvy roads, and narrow shoulders.

Cyclists can enjoy amazing rural scenery as they navigate the Baraboo Hills. The area is known for its picturesque landscapes, and some routes offer rewarding views over Devil's Lake State Park from various vantage points along the bluffs. You'll experience a mix of woods, meadows, and the unique quartzite bluffs.

Yes, the region is popular for longer tours. While the primary Devil's Lake Loop for touring bikes is on roads, the area can connect to other rail-to-trail adventures like the 400 State Trail and the Great Sauk Trail. Some segments of the Ice Age National Scenic Trail also pass through the area, though these are generally not suitable for touring bikes.

The Devil's Lake Loop, as a road cycling route, is generally not considered family-friendly due to its challenging hills, traffic, and narrow shoulders. Within Devil's Lake State Park, there are no flat, paved, or family-friendly bike trails suitable for touring cyclists. The only trail open to bicycles within the park, the Uplands Loop Trail, is a challenging mountain bike trail.

The Devil's Lake Loop, which is approximately 16.3 kilometers (10.1 miles) long, typically takes around 1 hour and 7 minutes to complete for a touring cyclist. This duration can vary significantly based on your fitness level, the specific route taken, and how often you stop to enjoy the scenery.

It's crucial to understand that most internal trails within Devil's Lake State Park are not suitable for touring bikes. The park's trails are generally rugged, with dirt, mud, loose rock, and significant elevation changes, designed for hiking or mountain biking. The 'Devil's Lake Loop' for touring cyclists refers to routes on the public roads surrounding the park, not trails directly inside it.