The best traffic-free bike rides in Vilas County

Vilas County offers a wide selection of traffic-free road cycling routes, with over 19 options available on komoot. These routes cater to various skill levels, from easy to challenging, ensuring there's a ride for everyone.

Yes, many of the traffic-free routes in Vilas County are ideal for beginners and families. The Little Saint Germain Lake loop from Little Saint Germain Lake, for example, is an easy 24 km ride with minimal elevation gain, perfect for a relaxed outing. The Heart of Vilas County Bike Trail System, which forms the backbone of many routes, features flat-to-rolling terrain with manageable hills.

You can expect stunning Northwoods scenery. Many routes wind through the vast Northern Highland American Legion Forest, offering true wilderness immersion. You'll also frequently ride alongside pristine lakes and rivers, as Vilas County is home to over 1,300 lakes. The landscape, shaped by glacial history, provides dynamic views without strenuous climbs.

The terrain on Vilas County's traffic-free routes is generally flat-to-rolling, with manageable hills. While some routes have more elevation gain, like the Tepee Lake – Deadman Lake loop from Sayner with 268 meters of ascent over 61 km, the overall experience is designed to be accessible for various fitness levels without significant, strenuous climbs.

Absolutely. Cycling through the extensive forests and alongside numerous waterways provides excellent opportunities to spot local wildlife. Keep an eye out for deer, bald eagles soaring overhead, and loons on the lakes, adding to the natural immersion of your ride.

Vilas County is well-equipped with access points. The Heart of Vilas County Bike Trail System alone offers 20 different parking areas, making it convenient to start your journey from various points along the trail system.

Yes, the main trail systems, such as the Heart of Vilas County Bike Trail, provide convenient amenities. You'll find scenic rest areas with picnic spots and restrooms. For unexpected mechanical issues, "Fixtations" – outdoor bike repair stands equipped with tools and tire pumps – are strategically placed along the trails.

Yes, the cycling trails connect several charming Northwoods communities like St. Germain, Sayner, Boulder Junction, Manitowish Waters, and Mercer. These towns offer easy access to local restaurants, shops, museums, and various accommodation options including campgrounds, motels, and resorts, making multi-day trips or quick stops very convenient.

Vilas County is a year-round outdoor destination, but for road cycling, late spring through early fall offers the most pleasant conditions. The fall foliage season is particularly vibrant and popular for scenic rides. Summer provides opportunities for refreshing dips in the many lakes along the routes.

For a longer, immersive ride, consider the Burnt Rollways Reservoir 129 loop from Eagle River. This moderate 59 km route offers a substantial ride through the scenic Vilas County landscape, providing an extended traffic-free experience.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.0 stars. Reviewers often praise the quiet, well-maintained paved trails, the stunning lake views, and the immersive experience of cycling through the vast Northwoods forests without vehicle traffic.

An excellent choice for a relaxed, easy ride is the Burnt Rollways Reservoir 129 – Canary Lake loop from Eagle River. This 41 km route is classified as easy, offering a pleasant and scenic loop with manageable elevation, perfect for a leisurely outing.