Glacial Drumlin State Trail

The full 53.2-mile length of the Glacial Drumlin State Trail can be cycled in approximately 3.5 to 4 hours, depending on your pace and how many stops you make. The komoot tour Glacial Drumlin State Trail, which covers a significant portion, suggests a duration of around 3 hours and 34 minutes for touring cycling.

The trail is known for its remarkably flat profile, with minimal elevation gain, making it an easy ride. The surface is a mix of asphalt and crushed limestone. You'll find paved sections at the western end (2 miles from Cottage Grove) and the eastern end (13 miles near Waukesha). The majority consists of crushed limestone, which is generally smooth but can occasionally have loose gravel or bumps. Hybrid or cross bikes are well-suited for this varied surface, though road bikes can also manage.

Given the mixed surface of asphalt and crushed limestone, a hybrid or cross bike is ideal for the Glacial Drumlin State Trail. Road bikes are also typically suitable, especially for the paved sections, but may feel less comfortable on the crushed limestone parts. Mountain bikes are generally overkill for this flat and relatively smooth trail.

You'll experience diverse scenery, including classic Wisconsin farmland, peaceful woodlands, and significant wetlands. Keep an eye out for the distinctive drumlins that give the trail its name. Notable features include 16 scenic bridges, a quarter-mile-long bridge over Rock Lake, and a 354-foot bridge over the Rock River. The trail also passes near University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee at Waukesha Field Station and the Glacial Drumlin State Trail itself is a highlight.

Yes, the Glacial Drumlin State Trail is a significant part of the United States Bicycle Route 30 (Wisconsin) and also intersects with sections of the Ice Age Trail. You'll also find smaller connections like the New Berlin / Glacial Drumlin Connector and the Cushing Park Road Recreational Trail.

The trail is enjoyable throughout the warmer months. Spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery, with fall foliage being particularly striking. Summer is also great, but be prepared for warmer weather. The crushed limestone sections are also used for cross-country skiing and snowmobiling in winter, offering a different experience, but cycling might be challenging depending on snow conditions.

Yes, the Glacial Drumlin State Trail is a multi-use trail, and dogs are generally allowed. Always ensure your dog is on a leash and that you clean up after them to maintain a pleasant experience for all trail users.

Yes, bicyclists aged 16 and older are required to have a Wisconsin State Trail Pass to use the Glacial Drumlin State Trail. These passes can typically be purchased at trailheads or online through the Wisconsin DNR website.

Trailheads along the Glacial Drumlin State Trail, such as those in Cottage Grove, Lake Mills, Jefferson, Dousman, and Waukesha, typically offer essential amenities. These often include parking, restrooms, drinking fountains, and picnic tables. For overnight stays, the Sandhill Station State Campground near Lake Mills is specifically designed for bikers.

While the trail is largely flat and considered easy, there is a 1.5-mile on-road gap near Jefferson where cyclists will need to use local roads to reconnect with the trail. This requires navigating local traffic briefly. Otherwise, the main challenge might be occasional loose gravel on the crushed limestone sections.

Yes, the trail connects numerous small towns including Cottage Grove, Deerfield, London, Lake Mills, Jefferson, Sullivan, Dousman, and Waukesha. These towns offer opportunities for stops, where you can find local cafes, restaurants, and other services to refuel and relax during your ride.