LocationBlue Mounds, WI (about 2.8 hrs. northwest of Chicago)
Trail Map
Trail ReviewThis state park offers a well-praised mix of trails for every skill level: Gravel trails for beginners; singletrack with log crossings and rocky climbs for intermediates; and some large, tightly spaced, pedal reaching rocks for experts. Oh yeah, and a 2.5 foot dropoff if you want guaranteed air. This place offers some really gnarly sections that might make you question whether your skills are up to it — the place is built on a huge rock mound.
The locals prefer to start by the swimming pool. Probably because they end up in there after the ride.
Total distance is about ten miles. If you want extra miles, do a loop here, then get on the Military Ridge (rail) Trail to the south and hook up with Governor Dodge County Park to the west. Do the trails there and head back. That park has about 12 miles of scenic, but tame doubletrack that you might share with horses, but it's good if you want quantity over quality.
That should get you ready for the pool.
Getting ThereTake I-90/94 west (north) to Madison, Wisconsin. Take exit 142A, the US-12/18 west exit, towards Madison. The road will also become Rte. 151. Follow it about 16 miles, past Mt Horeb. Follow the freeway signs park exit. Once off the freeway, follow the signs to the park.
More Info State Parks parking and trail passes required. $10 annual for trails, $20 for annual resident parking. Good at all state parks and forests. If you go, call 608-437-5711 to make sure the trails haven't been closed due to any recent rain.
Worba's Dane County chapter, Corps (Capitol-Area Off Road Pathfinders) built and maintain the singletrack. Find out more from their
website.
