The best cycling routes around Fitchburg
4.6
(159)
1,767
riders
18
rides
Touring cycling around Fitchburg, Wisconsin, offers an extensive network of trails that traverse diverse natural landscapes and well-developed cycling infrastructure. The region features a mix of suburban and rural areas, with scenic bluffs, prairies, and wetlands. Cyclists can experience varied terrain, from paved paths to packed gravel trails, connecting to wider regions of Wisconsin. The area's commitment to preserving natural spaces provides appealing backdrops for outdoor activities.
Best touring cycling routes around Fitchburg
- The most popular touring cycling route is…
Last updated: October 24, 2026
4.0
(1)
20
riders
71.9km
05:08
290m
290m
Embark on the Badger State Trail for a difficult touring cycling adventure spanning 44.7 miles (71.9 km). You will experience a total elevation gain of 966 feet (295 metres) over…
5.0
(2)
51
riders
Easy bike ride. Mostly paved surfaces.
5.0
(1)
25
riders
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces.
5.0
(1)
23
riders
Easy bike ride. Mostly paved surfaces.
5.0
(4)
20
riders
Easy bike ride. Mostly paved surfaces.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Tips from the Community
In loving memory of Christopher "Red" Vogts February 17th, 1987 - February 8th, 2013 "When despair for the world grows in me and I wake in the night at least sound in fear of what my life and my children's lives may be, I go and lie down where the wood drake rests in his beauty on the water, and the great heron feeds. I come into the peace of wild things, who do not tax their lives with forethought of grief. I come into the presence of still water. And I feel above me the day. Blind stars, waiting with their light. For a time, I rest in the grace of the world, and lam FREE." Do It Real Big.
0
0
Repairstan bike station also.
0
0
Great hub for bicycles. Challenging mountain bike & gravel riding nearby as well as major state trails & rustic roads. Free parking, public restrooms, drinking water, and shelter.
0
0
The E-Way Unit of Capital Springs State Recreation Area features 625 acres of wetlands, prairies, and woodlands, providing a vital corridor for wildlife and outdoor recreation. There are miles of hiking, biking, and skiing trails, with scenic views of Nine Springs Creek. Envisioned initially as an environmental study model, the E-Way is a fantastic space for education and conservation.
0
0
Wingra Creek is a picturesque waterway connecting Lake Wingra to Lake Monona through a lovely green corridor. Historically, it was modified for drainage and boat access, but today, it is a quiet route for paddlers and cyclists as it winds along parks and natural springs. The creek is home to diverse wildlife, including turtles, ducks, and fish, making it a great place to escape the city and enjoy spending time outdoors.
0
0
Library Park, in the heart of Belleville, is a hub for community life and historical significance. In 1851, the park was originally a public grazing ground and the site of early Native American trails. It became the location for Belleville's village hall, built in 1894, which also housed a library, firehouse, and jail. Today the park hosts holiday celebrations, fairs, concerts, and free summer movies. Visitors can use the water fountain, picnic tables, and a museum maintained by the Belleville Area Historical Society.
0
0
The Sugar River Wetlands is a rich wetland ecosystem that is home to sedge meadows, calcareous fens, emergent aquatic areas, shrub-carr, and wet-mesic prairies, and animal species and hosts southern Wisconsin’s most diverse fishery. Calcium-rich groundwater feeds the wetlands and the river with high-quality water.
0
0
Frequently Asked Questions
How many touring cycling routes are available in Fitchburg?
Fitchburg offers a selection of 16 touring cycling routes, catering to various skill levels. You'll find 12 easy routes, 3 moderate routes, and 1 more challenging option to explore the region's diverse landscapes.
Are there family-friendly touring cycling routes in Fitchburg?
Yes, Fitchburg is very family-friendly for cyclists. Many of the city paths, like the Cannonball Path, are paved and suitable for all ages. Routes such as the Capital City State Trail – Monona Terrace Rooftop loop from Nannyberry Wetland are rated as easy and offer pleasant rides through suburban and urban areas.
What kind of terrain can I expect on Fitchburg's touring cycling routes?
Fitchburg's routes offer a mix of terrain. You'll find extensive paved trails like the Capital City Trail and Cannonball Path, as well as packed gravel trails such as the Badger State Trail and Military Ridge State Trail. The region features diverse scenery, from bluffs and wildflowers to suburban and rural landscapes, including prairies and wetlands.
Are there any circular touring cycling routes in the Fitchburg area?
Yes, several routes offer a loop experience. For example, the Capital City State Trail – Glenway Woods loop from Nevin Springs State Fishery and Wildlife Area provides a moderate 26.6-mile loop with some elevation gain. Another easy option is the Glenway Woods – Southwest Commuter Path loop from Fitchburg, which is just over 13 miles long.
What are some scenic highlights or natural attractions along the cycling routes?
Fitchburg's routes offer access to beautiful natural areas. You can cycle past the University of Wisconsin–Madison Arboretum, enjoy views of Lake Wingra, or explore the Olbrich Botanical Gardens. The region is rich in parks, wetlands, and prairies, providing diverse natural backdrops for your rides.
Is there parking available near the trailheads in Fitchburg?
Yes, parking is generally available near many of Fitchburg's trailheads. For instance, the Quarry Ridge Recreation Area, which serves as a starting point for routes like the Goose Lake – Sugar River Wetlands loop, offers convenient parking facilities. Many city and state trails also have designated parking areas.
Do I need a permit to cycle on any of the trails in Fitchburg?
While many city paths like the Cannonball Path, Military Ridge Path, and Quarry Ridge Mountain Bike Trail are free to use, some state trails, such as sections of the Badger State Trail, may require a pass for cyclists aged 16 and older. It's advisable to check the specific trail regulations before you go.
What do other touring cyclists enjoy most about cycling in Fitchburg?
The komoot community highly rates touring cycling in Fitchburg, with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 170 reviews. Cyclists frequently praise the extensive network of well-maintained trails, the diverse natural landscapes, and the seamless connections to urban and rural areas. The variety of routes, from easy loops to longer distances, is also a popular highlight.
Are there any routes that connect Fitchburg to other cities or regions?
Absolutely. Fitchburg is a hub for regional trail connections. The Capital City Trail connects Fitchburg to Madison, and the Badger State Trail extends 40 miles south to the Illinois state line. The unique Bike Roundabout in Fitchburg is where five regional trails converge, linking the city with Madison, Verona, and wider areas of Wisconsin and northern Illinois.
What is the best time of year for touring cycling in Fitchburg?
The spring, summer, and fall months generally offer the best conditions for touring cycling in Fitchburg. During these seasons, you can enjoy comfortable temperatures, lush scenery, and wildflowers. While some trails may be accessible in winter, conditions can vary, and specific sections might be less maintained for cycling.
Can I access Fitchburg's bike trails using public transport?
Fitchburg's proximity to Madison and its well-integrated trail network suggest that some trailheads may be accessible via public transport options that serve the greater Madison area. For specific public transport connections to trailheads, it's best to consult local transit schedules and maps.
Most popular routes around Fitchburg
Most popular attractions around Fitchburg
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Browse the best Cycling routes in other regions.
