LocationKewaskum, WI (About 3.5 hours N of Chicago)
Trail ReviewThe northern unit of Kettle Moraine is a kindred trail to its brother to the south. There are five trail loops covering over 130 mile, though only two are open to bikes. These are the New Fane Loop, at about 8 miles long, and the more technical Greenbush Loop, with about 11 miles.
If you are into high speed "roller coaster" style trails then Kettle's Northern Unit is just the place! The rolling hills of leftover glacial sediment make for smooth packed downhills and grippy climbs.
Don't expect the crowds that you find at Southern Unit here. A small pull-off from the road with pit toilets and picnic tables signals the trailhead. A large board with colored loops shows all the available trails and adequate marking makes it impossible to get lost.
This trail is a long drive from Chicago, but is worth exploring. It is a good trail for mountain bike newbies who want a challenge but aren't quite ready for extreme technical riding.
Getting ThereThe Northern Unit is northwest of Milwaukee. From Chicago, take I-94 north through Milwaukee on up towards Sheboygan. Take Hwy 23 west from Sheboygan and Plymouth (East from Fond Du Lac) to Hwy A. Take Kettle Moraine scenic trail past 'Ol Wade house, follow scenic trail signs to trailhead.
More InfoAlthough these trails don't have the traffic that the Southern Unit has, they are nicely designed and dry out quickly. They are maintained by
WORBA. Camping can be found at
Mauthe Lake Recreation Area. More park info can be found on the
Wisconsin DNR's site, or by contacting the park office:
Kettle Moraine State Forest - Northern Unit
Forest Headquarters
N1765 Highway G
Cambellsport, WI 53010
(262) 626-2116, or (262) 533-8322 on the weekends
Trail passes are required to ride there.
