Great Sauk State Trail & Devil's Lake State Park Loop

The route offers a varied experience. The Great Sauk State Trail portion is highly suitable for touring cycling, featuring generally easy terrain. However, the Devil's Lake State Park Loop itself is primarily a challenging hiking route, largely unsuitable for touring bikes due to steep climbs, descents, numerous stone steps, and rocky, uneven footing. Cyclists can enjoy the Great Sauk State Trail to reach the park's vicinity but should be prepared to hike or explore only limited paved areas within the park.

The Great Sauk State Trail consists of both paved and unpaved sections, often following old roads, and is generally easy. It traverses historical landscapes and natural beauty. In contrast, the Devil's Lake State Park Loop features dramatic 500-foot quartzite bluffs with steep climbs and descents, many stone steps, and rocky, uneven footing. Some sections may require scrambling, making it very challenging for bikes.

Along the Great Sauk State Trail, you'll see wildflowers, views of the Wisconsin River, and opportunities for eagle watching. The trail passes through the Sauk Prairie State Recreation Area. Near Devil's Lake State Park, you can enjoy stunning views of the lake from impressive bluffs, and see unique geological formations like Balanced Rock and Devil's Doorway. Don't miss Sauk City Riverfront Park and the beautiful Devil's Lake State Park itself.

Parking is available at various access points along the Great Sauk State Trail. For Devil's Lake State Park, there are parking lots at both the north and south shores. Check the Wisconsin DNR website for specific parking locations and any associated fees.

While the Great Sauk State Trail generally does not require a specific permit for cycling, Devil's Lake State Park, being a Wisconsin State Park, typically requires a vehicle admission sticker. You can purchase daily or annual passes. Check the official Wisconsin DNR website for current fee information and regulations.

Spring, summer, and fall are generally the best seasons for cycling the Great Sauk State Trail, offering pleasant weather and vibrant scenery. Fall provides beautiful foliage. While the Great Sauk State Trail might be accessible in winter, conditions can be challenging due to snow and ice. The Devil's Lake State Park hiking trails are best enjoyed in milder weather.

Dogs are generally allowed on the Great Sauk State Trail and in Devil's Lake State Park, but they must be kept on a leash no longer than 8 feet. Always remember to clean up after your pet. Specific restrictions might apply to certain buildings or swimming areas within the park, so it's always good to check park rules beforehand.

Yes, the route incorporates sections of the Great Sauk State Trail. It also intersects with parts of the United States Bicycle Route 30 (Wisconsin) and the Ice Age Trail (IAT - Devil's Lake Segment, IAT - Merrimac Segment). There are ongoing projects to extend the Great Sauk State Trail to connect with other major trails in the region.

The Great Sauk State Trail portion is generally considered easy and is suitable for families and beginners on touring bikes. However, the Devil's Lake State Park Loop, with its steep, rocky, and stepped terrain, is very challenging and not recommended for beginners or families with young children on bikes. Families can enjoy the Great Sauk State Trail and limited paved areas within the park.

Winter cycling on the Great Sauk State Trail is possible, but conditions can vary greatly with snow and ice. The trail may not be regularly plowed. The Devil's Lake State Park Loop trails are primarily hiking trails and would be extremely difficult, if not impassable, for cycling in winter conditions due to snow, ice, and their inherent ruggedness.

Yes, you'll find various cafes, restaurants, and pubs in nearby towns like Sauk City and Baraboo, which are close to access points for the Great Sauk State Trail and Devil's Lake State Park. These towns offer good options for refreshments before or after your ride.