The best cycling routes around Lake Mendota
4.5
(237)
2,768
riders
15
rides
Touring cycling around Lake Mendota offers a diverse landscape characterized by the expansive lake shoreline, connecting urban areas, and accessible parklands. The region features relatively flat terrain directly bordering the lake, with gentle undulations as routes extend into surrounding areas. Paths often follow the water's edge, providing open views and linking various points of interest within the Madison metropolitan area.
Best touring cycling routes around Lake Mendota
- The most popular touring cycling route is Lake Monona Loop, an 18.1 miles (29.1 km) trail that takes 1 hour 42 minutes to complete, offering continuous lake views and urban park access.
- Another top favourite among local touring cyclists is Lower Yahara River Trail – Monona Terrace Rooftop loop from Madison, an easy 14.1 miles (22.7 km) path that combines river scenery with city landmarks.
- Local touring cyclists also love the Monona Terrace Rooftop – Yahara River loop from Madison, a 56.4 miles (90.7 km) trail leading through varied urban and natural landscapes, often completed in about 5 hours 23 minutes.
- Touring cycling around Lake Mendota is defined by scenic lakefront paths, river trails, and urban connections. The network offers options for different ability levels, from easy loops to more challenging long-distance routes.
- The routes in Lake Mendota are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 285 reviews. More than 3000 touring cyclists have used komoot to explore Lake Mendota's varied terrain.
Last updated: May 27, 2026
4.3
(24)
274
riders
29.1km
01:43
110m
110m
The Lake Monona Loop offers an easy touring cycling experience, circling the scenic lake with constant views of the water and the Madison skyline. You will cover 18.1 miles (29.1 km) with a gentle elevation gain of 364 feet (111 metres), making it a comfortable ride for most. Expect to spend about 1 hour and 42 minutes enjoying the route, passing through charming lakeside neighborhoods and small parks. Keep an eye out for the distinctive Monona Terrace Convention Center as you cycle along the shore.
Planning your ride on the Lake Monona Loop is straightforward. The entire trail is paved, ensuring a smooth journey, and it is easily accessible from various points around the lake. If you need a bike, rentals are readily available from services like Madison BCycle and Machinery Row Bicycles. You will find plenty of parks and beaches along the way, perfect for taking a break, enjoying the view, or having a picnic.
This popular route is a highlight of the Capital Springs State Recreation Area, known for its blend of urban views and natural beauty. The section along John Nolen Drive provides particularly expansive views of downtown Madison and the iconic Wisconsin State Capitol building. The Lake Monona Loop is a fantastic way to experience Madison's vibrant lakeside culture and natural surroundings on two wheels.
5.0
(2)
40
riders
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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20
riders
96.8km
05:43
530m
530m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
14
riders
17.3km
01:03
110m
110m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.3
(3)
22
riders
70.3km
04:14
300m
300m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Other adventures around Lake Mendota
Tips from the Community
Repairstan bike station also.
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This small patch of woods sits right along the Southwest Commuter Path in Madison. Stay on the gravel path and walk the hiking trails as the signs suggest—bikes can cause erosion in this sensitive area. Enjoy the trails winding around old oaks, giving you a chance to stretch your legs under the trees before hopping back on your bike.
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Key Takeaways: What it is: A natural sandstone cave on the shore of Lake Mendota in Madison. The Legend: Famously (but inaccurately) said to be a hiding spot for Chief Black Hawk in 1832. The Reality: A natural shelter likely used by the Ho-Chunk and other Native peoples for centuries. Current Status: CLOSED TO THE PUBLIC. The entrance is permanently sealed for safety reasons due to the high risk of collapse. You can still view the area from a boat on the lake, but you cannot enter the cave.
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Modern History and Current Status For over a century, the cave was a popular destination for boaters, hikers, and University of Wisconsin students. However, the soft sandstone that allowed its formation also makes it inherently unstable. Due to significant erosion and several partial collapses, the cave became extremely dangerous. To ensure public safety, the entrance has been sealed off with a large metal grate.
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The Historical and Geological Reality Geology: The cave is not man-made. It was naturally formed over thousands of years by the wave action of Lake Mendota eroding the soft Cambrian sandstone bluff. True History: While Chief Black Hawk almost certainly never used it, the cave was undoubtedly known and used by Native Americans for centuries, most notably the Ho-Chunk people, who have inhabited the Madison area for generations. It would have served as a valuable temporary shelter from the elements for those fishing, hunting, or traveling along the lake.
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The Legend The cave's name comes from the famous Sauk leader, Chief Black Hawk (Makataimeshekiakiak). The prevailing legend states that during the Black Hawk War of 1832, after his band was defeated at the Battle of Wisconsin Heights, Chief Black Hawk fled and hid in this cave to evade the pursuing U.S. militia before making his escape across the Wisconsin River. However, historians widely agree that this story is very unlikely to be true. The timeline and geographical location of the cave do not match the documented route of Black Hawk's retreat. The legend likely emerged later in the 19th century, as settlers romanticized the war and attached the famous leader's name to a prominent local landmark.
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Blackhawk's Cave is a well-known historical landmark located on the southern shore of Lake Mendota in Madison, Wisconsin. It's a natural sandstone cave that holds a significant place in local folklore, though its popular story is more legend than historical fact.
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Blackhawk Cave is a historically and culturally significant sandstone cave on the shore of Lake Mendota. However, it is completely inaccessible to the public. The entrance was permanently sealed with concrete and stone in the early 1960s for safety and preservation reasons, and it is located on private property.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many touring cycling routes are available around Lake Mendota?
There are over 200 touring cycling routes available around Lake Mendota, offering a wide variety of distances and difficulty levels to explore the region.
What is the general difficulty level of touring cycling routes in the Lake Mendota area?
The majority of touring cycling routes around Lake Mendota are considered easy, with 143 routes falling into this category. There are also 52 moderate and 9 difficult routes for those seeking more of a challenge.
Are there family-friendly touring cycling routes around Lake Mendota?
Yes, many of the routes around Lake Mendota are suitable for families, particularly the numerous easy-grade paths that often follow the lakefront or connect urban parks. These routes typically feature relatively flat terrain and scenic views.
Where can I find parking for touring cycling routes near Lake Mendota?
Parking is generally available at various public parks and city lots located around Lake Mendota and within Madison. Specific parking information can often be found on individual route pages on komoot or by checking local city parking guides.
What kind of views or attractions can I expect to see along the touring cycling routes?
Touring cycling routes around Lake Mendota offer diverse scenery, including expansive lake views, urban parklands, and historical sites. You might pass by attractions such as Lake Mendota itself, the Picnic Point Mound Group, or the serene Lakeshore Nature Preserve.
What is the best time of year for touring cycling around Lake Mendota?
The spring, summer, and fall months generally offer the most pleasant conditions for touring cycling around Lake Mendota, with comfortable temperatures and vibrant scenery. While winter cycling is possible, it requires appropriate gear for colder weather and potential snow or ice.
Are there any touring cycling routes that offer continuous lake views?
Yes, routes like the Lake Monona Loop are known for offering continuous lake views, providing a picturesque experience as you cycle along the water's edge.
Are dogs allowed on touring cycling trails around Lake Mendota?
Many public paths and parks around Lake Mendota are dog-friendly, provided dogs are kept on a leash. However, it's always best to check specific trail regulations or park rules before heading out with your canine companion.
What do other touring cyclists enjoy the most about touring cycling in Lake Mendota?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 285 reviews. Reviewers often praise the scenic lakefront paths, the variety of routes connecting urban and natural landscapes, and the accessibility of the trails.
Are there any longer touring cycling routes for experienced cyclists?
Yes, for experienced cyclists looking for a longer ride, routes such as the Monona Terrace Rooftop – Yahara River loop from Madison offer a challenging 56.4-mile (90.7 km) journey through varied landscapes.
Can I find cafes or places to stop for refreshments along the touring cycling routes?
Given that many routes connect to or pass through urban areas of Madison, you will find numerous opportunities for cafes, restaurants, and other refreshment stops, especially along the more central lakefront paths.
Are there any routes that combine river scenery with city landmarks?
Absolutely. The Lower Yahara River Trail – Monona Terrace Rooftop loop from Madison is a great option that combines scenic river views with prominent city landmarks.
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