Capital Springs State Recreation Area- E-Way Unit
Capital Springs State Recreation Area- E-Way Unit
The best cycling routes in Capital Springs State Recreation Area- E-Way Unit
4.6
(253)
2,778
riders
188
rides
Touring cycling in Capital Springs State Recreation Area- E-Way Unit features routes primarily characterized by flat terrain and paved paths. The area encompasses a network of trails along the Yahara River and the shores of Lake Monona, connecting various urban green spaces and recreational facilities. This landscape provides accessible cycling opportunities with minimal elevation changes.
Best touring cycling routes in Capital Springs State Recreation Area- E-Way Unit
- The most popular touring cycling route is Monona Terrace Rooftop – Yahara River…
Last updated: October 5, 2026
18
riders
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(6)
16
riders
12.2km
00:48
40m
40m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(1)
11
riders
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
9
riders
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
14
riders
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Capital Springs State Recreation Area- E-Way Unit
Tips from the Community
Stone Bridge Park is a small lakeside gem along Lake Monona, sitting just west of Winnequah Road & Parkway.  It’s home to the Lake Monona Sailing Club, which maintains a dock, hoist, and space for about 20 sailboats during summer.  The park’s terrain slopes down toward the water in an amphitheater-style fashion, giving strong views across the lake toward Madison’s isthmus.  One of its more unique features is a historic stone pagoda in the southwest corner, fed by a natural spring (especially visible in the spring).  Also, the park has been part of a major stormwater / runoff improvement project — they installed an underground StormTrap vault and improved grading, drainage, and shoreline infrastructure to reduce flooding, erosion, and phosphorus entering the lake.
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Stone Bridge Park in Monona is a tiny but stunning lakeside spot that punches above its weight. It’s got sweeping Lake Monona views, a historic stone pagoda fed by a natural spring, and a cozy launch area used by local sailors. The park recently got a major eco-upgrade with hidden stormwater systems that help keep runoff and pollution out of the lake. It’s one of those blink-and-you-miss-it parks that locals love for quiet sunsets, chill picnics, and a front-row seat to Madison’s skyline.
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Long before it became the Frank Allis estate, the San Damiano site was a gathering and ceremonial place for Indigenous peoples, especially the Ho-Chunk Nation. The land sits along a natural rise overlooking Lake Monona—part of a sacred landscape once lined with effigy and burial mounds. One of those mounds still remains within the park today, protected and marked off from foot traffic. It stands as a quiet but powerful reminder that this shoreline was not just scenic, but spiritual ground long before Monona existed.
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Lake Monona ( mih-NOH-nə) is a freshwater drainage lake in Dane County, Wisconsin, surrounded on three sides by the city of Madison, Wisconsin, and on the south east side by the city of Monona, Wisconsin. It is the second-largest of a chain of four lakes along the Yahara River (also including Mendota, Kegonsa, and Waubesa) in the area and forms the south shore of the isthmus that forms downtown Madison. The name 'Monona' is a word believed to mean 'beautiful', although the lake was originally named by the Ho-Chunk (Winnebago) 'Tchee-ho-bo-kee-xa-te-la' or 'Teepee Lake'.
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San Damiano Park in Monona, Wisconsin is a peaceful 10-acre lakefront property with over 1,000 feet of shoreline on Lake Monona, offering stunning views of the Madison skyline. Once the historic Frank Allis estate and later a Franciscan retreat, it’s now a public park blending nature, history, and quiet relaxation. You’ll find picnic tables, bike racks, and walking paths beneath big old trees, plus a few interpretive signs about its Indigenous and cultural past. The city’s long-term plan includes improved trails, native plantings, and better lake access, but even now it’s a perfect low-key stop for cyclists or anyone wanting a calm scenic break along the lake.
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Cute little park, great views. Cool part of Monona history.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many touring cycling routes are available in Capital Springs State Recreation Area- E-Way Unit?
There are over 180 touring cycling routes available in the Capital Springs State Recreation Area- E-Way Unit. The majority of these, around 130, are classified as easy, making the area very accessible for various skill levels.
What are the typical distances for touring cycling routes in this area?
Route distances vary, but many popular touring cycling routes range from 8 to 14 miles (13 to 22 km). For example, the Monona Terrace Rooftop – Yahara River loop from Capital Springs State Park is 13.8 miles (22.2 km), while the Monona Terrace View – Monona Terrace Rooftop loop from Alliant Energy Center is 8.8 miles (14.1 km).
Are there family-friendly touring cycling routes in Capital Springs State Recreation Area- E-Way Unit?
Yes, the area is ideal for families. Most routes feature flat terrain and paved paths, with 134 out of 188 routes classified as easy. These conditions are well-suited for cyclists of all ages and abilities, including children.
When is the best time of year for touring cycling in the Capital Springs E-Way Unit?
The Capital Springs E-Way Unit is enjoyable for touring cycling from spring through fall. Spring offers blooming scenery, summer provides warm weather for lakeside rides, and fall showcases beautiful foliage. Always check local weather conditions before heading out.
What kind of scenery can I expect on the touring cycling routes?
You can expect diverse scenery including views of Lake Monona, the Yahara River, and various urban green spaces. Routes often connect parks and offer a mix of natural beauty and cityscapes. The Monona Terrace View – Brittingham Bay loop from Alliant Energy Center, for instance, leads along Brittingham Bay.
Are there circular touring cycling routes available?
Yes, many of the touring cycling routes in the Capital Springs E-Way Unit are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the Monona Terrace Rooftop – Yahara River loop and the Lower Yahara River Trail loop from Terravessa.
Where can I park when visiting the Capital Springs E-Way Unit for cycling?
Parking is generally available at various access points and parks along the routes. For example, routes often start or pass near locations like the Alliant Energy Center or Capital Springs State Park, which typically offer parking facilities. It's advisable to check specific starting points for parking availability.
Can I expect to see wildlife along the bike paths?
Given the routes follow the Yahara River and skirt Lake Monona, you may encounter various bird species, waterfowl, and small mammals, especially in the more naturalized sections of the trails and urban green spaces.
Are there places to eat or get refreshments along the routes?
As many routes pass through or near urban areas and connect various parks, you'll find opportunities for refreshments. Areas around Monona Terrace and other city parks often have cafes, restaurants, or convenience stores nearby.
How can I reach the Capital Springs E-Way Unit by public transport?
The Capital Springs E-Way Unit is accessible via Madison's public transportation system. Several bus routes serve areas adjacent to the trail network, particularly those closer to the city center and major parks. Check the local bus schedules for the most convenient stops.
What do other touring cyclists enjoy most about touring cycling in Capital Springs State Recreation Area- E-Way Unit?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 230 reviews. Reviewers often praise the flat, paved paths, the scenic views of Lake Monona and the Yahara River, and the accessibility of the routes for all skill levels.
Are there any routes suitable for more experienced touring cyclists looking for a longer ride?
While many routes are easy, combining several loops or extending existing routes can create longer rides for more experienced cyclists. For instance, the Paunack Park on Lake Monona – San Damiano Park loop from Alliant Energy Center offers a nearly 12.3-mile (19.8 km) ride with slightly more elevation gain compared to other easy routes.
Most popular routes in Capital Springs State Recreation Area- E-Way Unit
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