The best road cycling routes in Catherine Wolter Wilderness Area

No, road cycling and mountain biking are explicitly prohibited within the Catherine Wolter Wilderness Area to maintain its pristine natural state and focus on low-impact recreation. However, the surrounding Vilas County region offers extensive road cycling opportunities.

The Catherine Wolter Wilderness Area is located within easy reach of the acclaimed Heart of Vilas County Bike Trail System. This network provides over 50 miles of smooth, paved trails connecting communities like St. Germain, Sayner, Boulder Junction, and Manitowish Waters, all within Vilas County.

The routes in the Vilas County region, particularly on the Heart of Vilas County Bike Trail System, wind through the Northern Highland-American Legion State Forest. You'll experience diverse landscapes including wild forests, wetlands, prairie areas, and undeveloped glacial lakes, with scenic bridges, rolling terrain, and manageable hills.

Yes, the Heart of Vilas County Bike Trail System is known for its smooth pavement, making it suitable for all types of road and touring bikes and riders. There are options for various ability levels, including easier rides like the South Pipke Park Pond loop from Presque Isle Lake, which is 17.9 miles (28.9 km) long.

For those seeking longer rides, the John Junior Lake – Trout Lake loop from Van Vliet Lake is a moderate 45.6 miles (73.4 km) path offering scenic views of lakes and forests. Another popular option is the South Pipke Park Pond – Mud Lake loop from Manitowish Waters, which covers 48.2 miles (77.6 km).

Many of the routes in the Vilas County region are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the John Junior Lake – Trout Lake loop from Boulder Lake, a 39.4 miles (63.4 km) trail, and the Little Hurst Lake – Mud Lake loop from Town of Boulder Junction, which is 31.9 miles (51.4 km).

The Heart of Vilas County Bike Trail System, recognized as a National Recreational Trail, provides numerous scenic rest areas. These often include picnic spots, restrooms, and even bicycle repair stations. There are also many parking areas, allowing cyclists to choose different starting points.

The spring, summer, and fall months generally offer the best conditions for road cycling in Vilas County. These seasons provide pleasant temperatures and vibrant natural scenery, from lush green forests to stunning autumn colors. Winter cycling is possible but requires appropriate gear for colder conditions.

Yes, the trails wind through the Northern Highland-American Legion State Forest, which is rich in wildlife. Cyclists may encounter white-tailed deer, various bird species, and potentially even larger mammals like black bears or otters, especially during quieter times of day.

The Heart of Vilas County Bike Trail System connects several communities, including St. Germain, Sayner, Boulder Junction, and Manitowish Waters. These towns offer opportunities for meals, coffee breaks, and other services, making it convenient to refuel and rest during your ride.

This guide features 6 road cycling routes within the broader Vilas County region, offering a range of distances and difficulties. These routes leverage the extensive paved trail network available outside the Catherine Wolter Wilderness Area.