The best cycling routes around Kaukauna
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Best touring cycling routes Kaukauna, Wisconsin, feature pathways along the Fox River, providing a blend of natural scenery and historical points of interest. The area is characterized by well-maintained trails, including those that follow the unique hand-operated lock system. Cyclists can experience a landscape that combines river views with accessible pathways suitable for various cycling preferences.
Best touring cycling routes around Kaukauna
- The most popular touring cycling route is Railroad Trail and Fox Cities Paper Trail loop, a 13.9 miles (22.3 km) trail that takes 1 hour 24 minutes to complete. This route connects two significant local trails, offering varied scenery.
- Another top favourite among local touring cyclists is Newberry Trail, an easy 5.9 miles (9.5 km) path. This easy path provides a direct route through local landscapes.
- Local touring cyclists also love the Fox Trot and North Island Trail Loop, a 4.9 miles (7.9 km) trail leading through riverfront areas, often completed in about 30 minutes.
- Touring cycling around Kaukauna is defined by riverfront paths, well-maintained trails, and historical sites like the Kaukauna Locks. The network offers options for different ability levels, from easy loops to moderate excursions.
- The routes in Kaukauna are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 12 reviews. More than 50 touring cyclists have used komoot to explore Kaukauna's varied terrain.
Last updated: June 4, 2026
4
riders
22.3km
01:24
100m
100m
Cycle the easy 13.9-mile Railroad Trail and Fox Cities Paper Trail loop, gaining 320 feet of elevation in about 1 hour and 24 minutes.
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9.50km
00:33
30m
30m
Embark on an easy touring bicycle ride along the Newberry Trail, a pleasant 5.9-mile (9.5 km) route that takes about 33 minutes to complete. You'll experience diverse scenery, cycling alongside the Fox River where you can spot navigational canal locks and an active rail line. The path, which gains a gentle 113 feet (34 metres) in elevation, winds through shaded wooded sections, open grasslands, and residential areas. Keep an eye out for the restored Soo Line steam engine as you pass through Telulah Park, offering a unique visual landmark. While mostly paved, be prepared for some sections of singletrack gravel that add a little variety to your journey.
Planning your ride on the Newberry Trail is straightforward. You can generally find parking available at Telulah Park, which offers convenient access right at the trailhead. The route is suitable for most touring cyclists due to its mellow nature. Consider starting your ride in the morning or late afternoon to enjoy cooler temperatures and potentially fewer people on the path. This trail is accessible year-round, making it a flexible option for a quick outing.
This trail stands out for its unique blend of natural beauty and historical elements within the urban landscape of Appleton, Wisconsin. As you cycle, you'll not only enjoy the riverside views but also pass by the Appleton Swing Railroad Bridge, a notable piece of local infrastructure. The presence of the restored Soo Line steam engine in Telulah Park adds a touch of industrial heritage to your outdoor experience. It's a great option if you're looking for a short, easy ride with varied points of interest.
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7.93km
00:30
50m
50m
Cycle the easy 4.9-mile Fox Trot and North Island Trail Loop in Appleton, Wisconsin, offering river views and historical sites in 30 minutes
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15
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44.2km
02:33
200m
200m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
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4
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Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
A simple repair station by the water with a mount and pump. Great scenery, nice place to have a breakdown.
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In the pre-statehood era of Wisconsin, the Fox River was important to native tribes, travelers, and fur traders. Since 1760, a trading post has stood here. Charles A. Grignon built this home in 1837. Charles was an interpreter for the U.S. government during the Treaty of the Cedars. Today, the mansion can be seen from the street, can be entered for under 10 dollars, or a private tour can be taken.
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The Nelson Family Heritage Crossing is a recent addition to the city of Appleton, officially opening on June 18, 2021. This 1,100-foot bicycle and pedestrian bridge is an important car-free link, running from Heesakker Park in the Village of Little Chute and a new rail trail connection to Downtown Kaukauna.
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The Little Chute Windmill is a tribute to the Dutch heritage in the area. This functioning windmill site also offers the Van Asten Visitor Center and interpretive center in Little Chute. The building can be viewed from the street at any time, but the hours to visit the inside area are: Sunday, Monday, and Tuesday are closed. Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, and Saturday: 12:30 p.m.–4 p.m.
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This swing bridge is the last large through-truss bridge on the Fox River. It was constructed in 1929 on concrete and stone and is still in use today.
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Telulah Park spans 27 acres and boasts a large pavilion, restrooms, drinking fountains, a soccer field, tennis courts, basketball courts, skateboard and roller blade courts, ADA playground equipment, a ball diamond, 18-hole disc golf, and cross-country skiing in the winter. The park is open to the public every day from 5 a.m. to 11 p.m.
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Appleton has three locks on the Lower Fox River, simply named Appleton Lock 1, Appleton Lock 2, and Appleton Lock 3. Appleton Lock 1 is visible here west of Oneida Street at the river's 31.7 mile marker, Lock 2 at the 31.5 mile marker, and Lock 3 at the 31.3 mile marker.
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Peabody Park spans 16.2 acres and is one of the largest neighborhood parks in the area. Visitors can enjoy views of the Fox River at this multi-use facility with numerous sports courts, picnic areas, disc golf, a boat ramp, and a wading pool. The Peabody Trail runs through this park and gives bikers a smooth, paved bike path to ride on.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many touring cycling routes are available in Kaukauna?
Kaukauna offers around 13 touring cycling routes, providing a variety of options for exploring the area. Most of these routes are rated as easy, making them accessible for many cyclists.
What are the typical difficulty levels for touring cycling routes in Kaukauna?
The majority of touring cycling routes in Kaukauna are considered easy, with 11 out of 13 routes falling into this category. There are also 2 moderate routes for those seeking a slightly greater challenge, but no difficult routes are listed.
Are there family-friendly touring cycling routes in Kaukauna?
Yes, many of Kaukauna's routes are suitable for families, especially the easy-rated trails. The Little Chute Windmill – Telulah Park loop from Fiesta Acres is an easy option that provides a pleasant ride through local landscapes, ideal for a family outing.
What natural attractions can I see while cycling in Kaukauna?
Cyclists can enjoy the scenic beauty of the Fox River, which many trails follow. The Fox River itself is a prominent natural feature. Additionally, the 1000 Islands Environmental Center, with its scenic boardwalks and opportunities for bird-watching, is a significant natural attraction in the area. You might also encounter wildlife along the trails.
Are there any historical sites or unique landmarks along the cycling routes?
Absolutely. The Kaukauna Locks Trail is rich in history, showcasing the nation's only fully restored hand-operated lock system. You can also see one of two 1901 swing bridges still used by the railroad. The grounds of the historic Grignon Mansion, a National and State Historic Site, are also accessible and offer a glimpse into the region's past. The Little Chute Windmill is another notable landmark.
Are there any circular touring cycling routes in Kaukauna?
Yes, Kaukauna offers several circular routes. For example, the Little Chute Windmill – Fox River loop from Kimberly is a moderate circular route that takes you through varied scenery, including views of the Fox River.
Where can I park when accessing Kaukauna's cycling trails?
Parking is generally available at various access points along the major trails, such as the Fox River Trail and near the Kaukauna Locks. Specific parking information for individual trailheads can often be found on local park and trail websites.
What is the best time of year to go touring cycling in Kaukauna?
The trails in Kaukauna are accessible year-round, allowing cyclists to experience the changing seasons. However, spring, summer, and fall offer the most pleasant weather for touring cycling, with vibrant foliage in autumn and lush greenery in warmer months. The Fox River Trail, in particular, provides stunning views throughout these seasons.
What do other touring cyclists enjoy most about cycling in Kaukauna?
The touring cycling routes in Kaukauna are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars. Cyclists often praise the well-maintained trails, the picturesque views along the Fox River, and the blend of natural scenery with historical points of interest like the Kaukauna Locks.
Are there connections to other trail networks from Kaukauna?
Yes, Kaukauna is well-connected to a larger network of trails. The CE Trail links Appleton and Kaukauna, and the Nelson Family Heritage Crossing provides a car-free connection from Little Chute to Downtown Kaukauna, expanding your cycling possibilities beyond the immediate area.
How long do the touring cycling routes in Kaukauna typically take?
The duration of routes varies depending on their length and your pace. Shorter, easy routes like the Newberry Trail, which is about 5.9 miles (9.5 km), can be completed in approximately 30-40 minutes. Longer routes, such as the Railroad Trail and Fox Cities Paper Trail loop at 13.9 miles (22.3 km), might take around 1 hour 20 minutes to complete.
Can I bring my dog on the touring cycling trails in Kaukauna?
Many trails in the Kaukauna area, including sections of the Fox River Trail, are dog-friendly, provided your dog is on a leash. It's always a good idea to check specific trail regulations before heading out to ensure a pleasant experience for everyone.
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