The best traffic-free bike rides around Fitchburg

Fitchburg offers 9 dedicated no-traffic road cycling routes, catering to various skill levels from easy to difficult. These routes provide a safe and enjoyable experience away from vehicular traffic.

Yes, there is one easy no-traffic road cycling route perfect for families or beginners. The Twin Cities Rail Trail loop from Doyle Community Park and Center is a great option, offering a relatively flat 23 km ride on a rail-trail.

The no-traffic routes in Fitchburg offer diverse scenery, from paved paths winding through suburban areas and parks to routes that traverse rural countryside, bluffs, prairies, and wetlands. You can expect serene views of water, hills, and natural areas like Dunn's Marsh and the UW Arboretum.

Yes, several routes are circular. For example, the Northern Watershed loop from Fitchburg and the Gazebo in Small-Town Park – Hickory Hills Lake loop from Fitchburg both offer circular experiences, allowing you to start and end at the same point without retracing your path.

While cycling, you can encounter various natural and man-made features. The Cannonball Path, for instance, provides access to the UW Arboretum and Knollwood Conservancy. You might also spot natural monuments like Balance Rock or enjoy views from Crow Hill Overlook. The region is also home to significant peaks like Mount Wachusett and Mount Watatic.

Fitchburg is a bicycle-friendly community with good infrastructure. The Dawley Bike Hub, located by Seminole Highway, is a convenient stop offering restrooms, parking, a water fountain, and a bike repair station. Many trailheads and parks also provide parking facilities.

The spring, summer, and fall months generally offer the best conditions for road cycling in Fitchburg, with pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery. Fall brings beautiful foliage, while spring and summer offer lush green landscapes. Always check local weather conditions before heading out.

While specific cafes directly on every no-traffic trail may vary, Fitchburg's extensive trail network connects to both urban and rural areas. Routes like the Paoli Loop (a scenic route in the broader region) are known for opportunities to stop at shops, coffee houses, and breweries. The Dawley Bike Hub also provides essential amenities like restrooms and a water fountain.

The komoot community highly rates the road cycling experience in Fitchburg, with an average score of 4.7 stars. Reviewers often praise the extensive network of dedicated trails, the diverse and scenic landscapes, and the overall bicycle-friendly environment that allows for peaceful rides away from traffic.

Fitchburg's trail network, including the Capital City State Trail and Southwest Commuter Path, connects directly to Madison, which has public transport options. While direct public transport to every trailhead might vary, the interconnected nature of the trails makes many points accessible from urban centers.

The no-traffic road bike routes in Fitchburg vary in length. For instance, the Twin Cities Rail Trail loop is approximately 23 km (14 miles), while the Gazebo in Small-Town Park – Hickory Hills Lake loop extends to about 41 km (25 miles). You can find routes suitable for shorter rides or longer excursions.

Fitchburg is recognized as a Silver Level Bicycle Friendly Community, boasting an extensive network of paved and unpaved trails, including three state trails and three local bike paths. The unique Velo UnderRound roundabout seamlessly connects multiple regional trails, making it easy to navigate and enjoy diverse landscapes away from traffic.