The best road cycling routes around Waunakee
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Road cycling routes around Waunakee are characterized by a landscape featuring several large lakes, including Lake Monona and Lake Mendota, and various conservancy parks and natural preserves. The terrain generally consists of gently rolling hills and flat sections, often following shorelines or passing through agricultural areas. This region provides a network of paved cycling routes suitable for road bikes, with elevation gains typically remaining moderate.
Best road cycling routes around Waunakee
- The most popular road cycling route is Bench With View of Lake Monona – Monona Terrace View loop from Maple Bluff, a 15.4 miles (24.7 km) trail that takes 1 hour to complete. This easy route offers views of Lake Monona.
- Another top favourite among local road cyclists is Lake Mendota – Howard Temin Lakeshore Path loop from Waunakee, a moderate 28.3 miles (45.5 km) path. This route follows the shores of Lake Mendota and its lakeshore path.
- Local road cyclists also love the Dunn's Marsh – Dawley Conservancy Park loop from East Towne Mall, a 27.3 miles (44.0 km) trail leading through Dunn's Marsh and Dawley Conservancy Park, often completed in about 1 hour 51 minutes.
- Road cycling around Waunakee is defined by lakeshore paths, conservancy parks, and open rural landscapes. The network offers options for different ability levels, from easy rides to more challenging routes.
- The routes in Waunakee are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 50 reviews. More than 800 road cyclists have used komoot to explore Waunakee's varied terrain.
Last updated: July 2, 2026
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31.3km
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Moderate road ride. Great for any fitness level. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
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Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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33.3km
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Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
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Popular around Waunakee
Tips from the Community
Nice resting point. Great views. Directly off path. Plenty of benches.
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The first bike counter I saw was in Oklahoma City. This one has a cool meter to it.
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The Brittingham Park Path is a paved, multi-use path that cuts through Brittingham Park. A portion of the trail runs alongside Brittingham Bay and gives you great views of the water.
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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.
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From this spot along John Nolan Drive, you can see sweeping views of Lake Monona with the short skyline of Madison the background.
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The Capital City State Trail is a 17-mile paved multi-use path open year-round. A state trail pass is required to bike the nine-mile portion of the trail that passes through the Capital Springs E-way south of Madison between Verona Road and Nob Hill near Industrial Drive, but the remainder is free to access.
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Historical information on tenney park
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The University of Wisconsin–Madison Arboretum is a research and ecological protection site in Madison. It has several miles of trails and quiet roads that weave through the beautiful wood land. The centerpiece of the area is Lake Wingra.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many road cycling routes are available around Waunakee?
There are over 25 road cycling routes available around Waunakee, catering to various skill levels. This includes 15 easy routes, 12 moderate routes, and 1 challenging route for more experienced cyclists.
Are there easy or family-friendly road cycling routes around Waunakee?
Yes, Waunakee offers several easy and family-friendly road cycling options. A great choice is the Bench With View of Lake Monona – Monona Terrace View loop from Maple Bluff, which is 15.4 miles long and provides scenic views of Lake Monona with minimal elevation gain.
What is the typical length of road cycling routes in Waunakee?
The road cycling routes around Waunakee vary in length. Many popular routes range from approximately 15 miles (24 km) to nearly 30 miles (48 km). For example, the Channel Lock – Tenney Park Lagoon loop from Town of Westport is about 19.7 miles (31.7 km) long.
Are there challenging road cycling routes for experienced riders in Waunakee?
While the terrain generally features gently rolling hills, there are moderate options for those seeking a bit more challenge. The Lake Mendota – Howard Temin Lakeshore Path loop from Waunakee is a moderate 28.3-mile route that includes more significant elevation changes, totaling around 900 feet (275 meters) of ascent.
What kind of scenery can I expect on road cycling routes in Waunakee?
Road cycling routes in Waunakee are known for their diverse scenery, including views of large lakes like Lake Monona and Lake Mendota, passages through conservancy parks, natural preserves, and open agricultural areas. Many routes follow picturesque shorelines.
What natural attractions can I see along the road cycling routes?
Many routes offer views or access to natural attractions. You can cycle along the shores of Lake Mendota and the Howard Temin Lakeshore Path. Other routes might pass by areas like the Pheasant Branch Creek Corridor Trail or the Yahara River.
Are there any historical or cultural landmarks near the cycling routes?
Yes, some routes may bring you close to interesting sites. For instance, the area around Lake Mendota includes the Picnic Point Mound Group, an ancient effigy mound site, offering a glimpse into the region's history.
What do other road cyclists enjoy most about road cycling in Waunakee?
The road cycling experience in Waunakee is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 50 reviews. Cyclists often praise the well-maintained paved routes, the beautiful lake views, and the peaceful passages through conservancy parks and rural landscapes.
Are there any loop road cycling routes in Waunakee?
Yes, many of the road cycling routes around Waunakee are designed as loops, offering a continuous journey back to your starting point. Examples include the Dunn's Marsh – Dawley Conservancy Park loop from East Towne Mall and the Nissaru's loop from Graber Pond Nature Preserve.
What is the best time of year for road biking in Waunakee?
The best time for road biking in Waunakee is generally from spring through fall (April to October), when the weather is mild and the scenery is vibrant. Summer offers warm temperatures, while spring and fall provide cooler rides and beautiful seasonal foliage. Winter cycling is possible but requires appropriate gear for colder conditions.
Where can I find parking for road cycling routes in Waunakee?
Many routes start from locations that typically offer public parking, such as parks or commercial areas. For example, routes often begin from areas like Maple Bluff, East Towne Mall, Graber Pond Nature Preserve, or the Town of Westport, where parking facilities are generally available.
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