Glacial Drumlin State Trail

Embark on a moderate touring cycling adventure along the Glacial Drumlin State Trail, a route spanning 35.1 miles (56.5 km) with a total elevation gain of 658 feet (201 metres). You can expect to complete this journey in about 3 hours and 34 minutes, cycling through a pleasant mix of Wisconsin farmland, peaceful woodlands, and significant wetlands. Keep an eye out for the 16 scenic bridges, including a quarter-mile-long crossing over Rock Lake, which offers great opportunities for wildlife viewing.

Before you head out, remember that if you are 16 or older, you will need a Wisconsin State Trail Pass for bicycling. Trailheads along the route typically provide convenient amenities such as parking, restrooms, drinking fountains, and picnic tables. Be aware of a 1.5-mile section near Jefferson where you will need to use local roads to reconnect with the main trail.

The trail gets its name from the distinctive drumlins, which are long, oval-shaped hills formed by glaciers, providing a unique geological backdrop to your ride. These formations are a key feature of the landscape you will traverse. The route offers a chance to connect with the natural history of the region while enjoying a well-maintained path.

This easy touring cycling loop, the Paradise Valley Wildlife Area – Glacial Drumlin State Trail loop from Sullivan, offers a delightful journey through Wisconsin's varied landscapes. You'll pedal 10.7 miles (17.1 km) with a mere 127 feet (39 metres) of elevation gain, taking about 1 hour and 34 minutes, primarily on the smooth crushed limestone of the Glacial Drumlin State Trail. Expect to roll past scenic farmland, quiet woodlands, and expansive wetlands, with highlights like the quarter-mile bridge over Rock Lake providing excellent wildlife viewing opportunities.

To plan your visit, start from the trailhead in Sullivan, where you'll find parking, restrooms, and picnic spots. The trail is generally accessible throughout the warmer months, with spring, summer, and fall being ideal for cycling. While the route skirts the Paradise Valley Wildlife Area, remember that its internal trails are better suited for mountain biking, so stick to the main Glacial Drumlin State Trail for a comfortable touring experience.

The Glacial Drumlin State Trail is a former railway line, meaning you'll enjoy gentle slopes and a mostly straight path, perfect for a relaxed ride. The trail's name comes from the drumlins, teardrop-shaped hills formed by glaciers, which add a unique geological character to the scenery. Keep an eye out for diverse wildlife, including various bird species and deer, especially in the wetland areas and along the Bark River.

This touring cycling route offers a fantastic blend of Wisconsin's natural beauty, taking you through wetlands, woodlands, and farmlands. You'll experience the flat, easy grades of the Glacial Drumlin State Trail, a former rail line, before encountering the rolling hills and diverse ecosystems of the Kettle Moraine State Forest - Lapham Peak Unit. Keep an eye out for the scenic quarter-mile wooden bridge over Rock Lake, a highlight along the way. The varied terrain and changing scenery make for an engaging ride.

To tackle this moderate 21.4-mile (34.4 km) loop, which includes 537 feet (164 metres) of elevation gain and takes about 2 hours and 21 minutes, ensure you have a state trail pass if you're 16 or older. The Glacial Drumlin State Trail features both paved and crushed limestone sections, so a touring bike with wider tires is recommended for comfort. You'll find amenities in the small towns the route passes through, perfect for a quick break.

What makes this route particularly special is its connection to Wisconsin's glacial history, evident in the drumlins along the Glacial Drumlin State Trail and the unique topography of the Kettle Moraine. The loop also provides excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing, especially in the Paradise Valley Wildlife Area, where you might spot sandhill cranes or deer. It's a great way to explore diverse ecosystems and enjoy a rewarding ride.