The best cycling routes around Santower Lake

The Santower Lake area offers varied terrain, characterized by interconnected lakes, gentle hills, and extensive woodlands. Many routes, like the Stower Seven Lakes State Trail, feature a smooth, crushed limestone surface and a level grade, making them accessible. You'll cycle through maple and oak forests, wetlands, open prairies, and farmlands, with generally mild elevation changes.

Yes, the Santower Lake region caters to a range of cycling abilities. There are over 250 touring cycling routes available, with more than 150 classified as easy, 80 as moderate, and 20 as difficult. This variety ensures options from leisurely lakeside loops to more challenging journeys through the wider region.

For an easy ride with beautiful scenery, consider the View of the Lake – Swimming spot at Santower See loop from Warnow. This 7.7-mile (12.4 km) path provides scenic views of Santower Lake and its surroundings, perfect for a relaxed outing.

Absolutely. For a longer ride that takes you through historic towns and coastal areas, try the Historic buildings in Klütz – Boltenhagen Central Promenade loop from Warnow. This moderate 20.7-mile (33.4 km) route offers a diverse experience beyond the immediate lake area.

The region is defined by its picturesque lakes, including North Twin, South Twin, Bear Trap, Kinney, Dwight, Horse, and Lotus lakes, which routes often skirt or cross. You'll also encounter diverse ecosystems such as maple and oak forests, wetlands teeming with wildlife, and open prairies. Some routes, like the Baltic Sea Viewpoint – View of Wohlenberger Wiek loop from Warnow, even offer views of the Baltic Sea.

Parking and trail access points are readily available in communities connected by the trails, such as Amery, Wanderoos, and Dresser. These towns serve as convenient starting points for your cycling adventures.

The diverse landscapes, including forests and open areas, make spring, summer, and fall excellent seasons for cycling. The wooded sections offer shade during warmer months, and the changing foliage in autumn provides beautiful scenery. Wetlands are particularly vibrant in spring and summer with abundant wildlife.

While the Stower Seven Lakes State Trail is popular for various activities, specific regulations for dogs on cycling trails can vary. It's generally advisable to check local signage or the Wisconsin DNR website for the most current rules regarding pets on trails. For general information on state trails, you can visit dnr.wisconsin.gov.

Many routes connect to various small towns like Amery, Wanderoos, and Dresser. These communities offer opportunities to explore local amenities, including cafes and rest stops, allowing you to refuel and relax during your ride.

Yes, from the Osceola/Dresser end, the Stower Seven Lakes State Trail offers a short connection to the Gandy Dancer Trail. It also provides access to Interstate Park, which features camping facilities, allowing for extended exploration and multi-day trips.

For the Stower Seven Lakes State Trail, a Wisconsin state trail pass is required for all bicyclists aged 16 or older. This pass helps maintain the trail system. No pass is required for hiking or walking.

The touring cycling routes around Santower Lake are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 out of 5 stars from over 3,100 reviews. Cyclists often praise the beautiful lake views, the well-maintained trails, and the diverse natural scenery encountered along the way.