The best traffic-free bike rides around Santower Lake

While the region is primarily known for the excellent Stower Seven Lakes State Trail, which offers 14 miles of crushed limestone, komoot features a selection of three distinct no-traffic gravel bike routes in the broader area. These routes provide varied experiences, from easy loops to more challenging rides.

The trails around the Stower Seven Lakes State Trail offer a diverse landscape. You'll cycle through scenic maple and oak forests, peaceful wetlands, and open prairies. The highlight, as the name suggests, is passing by seven picturesque lakes, including North Twin, South Twin, Bear Trap, Kinney, Dwight, Horse, and Lotus lakes. Dwight Lake even has a swimming beach accessible from the trail.

Yes, for an easy and family-friendly option, consider the Mallentin Village loop from Stepenitztal. This route is relatively short and has minimal elevation gain, making it suitable for beginners and families looking for a relaxed ride away from cars.

The Stower Seven Lakes State Trail area is beautiful throughout the warmer months. Spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures and stunning scenery, especially when the leaves change. Summer is also great, though you might encounter more visitors. The trail is generally well-maintained, but some sections might have looser gravel, so tires of 32c or larger are recommended for optimal riding.

For a longer and more challenging ride, the Vielbecker Lake – Börzow Village Church loop from Grevesmühlen is a difficult route spanning over 26 kilometers with notable elevation changes. Another moderate option is the Stepenitz Riverside Path – Börzow Village Church loop from Grevesmühlen, which covers nearly 50 kilometers.

The Stower Seven Lakes State Trail offers convenient amenities. You'll find developed rest stops in Deronda, Wanderoos, and Nye, which include parking spaces, restrooms (typically open from May to October), drinking fountains, and picnic tables. The eastern trailhead in Amery also has a covered pavilion with facilities.

Yes, if you plan to cycle on the Stower Seven Lakes State Trail, a Wisconsin state trail pass is required for all bicyclists aged 16 and older. It's advisable to check the Wisconsin DNR website for current pass requirements and purchase options.

The Stower Seven Lakes State Trail connects to several towns where you can find various eateries. Amery, Osceola, Dresser, and St. Croix Falls all offer dining options. For accommodation, Interstate Park, which is a short distance from the Osceola/Dresser end of the trail, offers camping facilities.

The diverse habitats along the Stower Seven Lakes State Trail, including forests, wetlands, and prairies, make it an excellent spot for wildlife viewing. You can often observe various bird species, including waterfowl, especially around the lakes. Keep an eye out for other local fauna as you ride through the natural areas.

Yes, several routes in the area are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end in the same location. For example, the Bothmer Castle – Bothmer Palace loop from Klütz offers an easy circular ride, while the Route to Bothmer Castle – Bothmer Palace loop from Klütz provides a longer, moderate option.