The best gravel rides around Madison

Madison offers a good selection of gravel biking routes. Our guide features 6 distinct gravel tours, ranging from easy to difficult, ensuring options for various skill levels.

Madison's gravel trails primarily utilize converted rail beds, offering relatively flat and scenic routes. You'll encounter a mix of crushed limestone paths and packed-dirt surfaces, winding through meadows, farmlands, rolling hills, woodlands, savannas, prairies, and wetlands. Some sections, like parts of the 'Cheese Triangle', can be rougher.

Yes, Madison has several easy gravel routes suitable for families or beginners. For instance, the Ice Age Trail Junction Area loop is an easy 18.6-mile trail that can be completed in under two hours, offering a gentle introduction to the area's glacial landscape features.

For a more challenging experience, consider The Turtle Watch Bridge – Military Ridge State Trail loop from Verona. This difficult 58.9-mile route connects to the Military Ridge State Trail, passing through agricultural lands and woods, and typically takes over six hours to complete.

Madison's gravel trails often pass through diverse natural settings. You can explore areas like the University of Wisconsin–Madison Arboretum with its varied ecosystems, or the expansive Cherokee Marsh. Many routes also offer scenic views of Madison's iconic lakes, such as Lake Wingra or Lake Mendota. The Olbrich Botanical Gardens are also a beautiful stop nearby.

Yes, many of Madison's gravel routes are designed as loops. For example, the Sugar River Wetlands – The Turtle Watch Bridge loop from Verona is a moderate 40.3-mile path that explores the scenic Sugar River Wetlands.

The best time for gravel biking in Madison is generally spring through fall. These seasons offer pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery, from spring blooms to autumn foliage. While winter biking is possible, conditions can be challenging due to snow and ice.

Some of Madison's rail trails, such as the Badger State Trail, Military Ridge Trail, and Sugar River State Trail, may require a state trail pass for cyclists aged 16 and older. It's advisable to check the Wisconsin DNR website for current requirements before you ride.

Given the mix of crushed limestone and packed-dirt surfaces, and potentially rougher sections on routes like the 'Cheese Triangle', a tire width of around 42mm is generally recommended for a comfortable and efficient ride on Madison's gravel trails.

The gravel biking routes around Madison are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars. Riders often praise the diverse ecosystems, scenic lake views, and the well-maintained rail trails that make for enjoyable rides.

Madison has a public transportation system, Metro Transit, which serves various parts of the city and surrounding areas. While some routes may get you close to trailheads, direct access can vary. It's best to check specific bus routes and schedules in relation to your chosen trailhead.

Many of Madison's trails, including segments of the rail trails, are dog-friendly, provided dogs are kept on a leash. However, policies can vary by specific trail or park, so it's always a good idea to check local regulations for the particular route you plan to ride.