Beginner

Fall is the time for bicycling in Vilas County. There’s nothing like smelling the fresh Vilas County air while hearing the gentle rustle of leaves beneath your wheels. If you like to ride in places that are flat, safe and relaxing, you have plenty of options in Vilas County. You also don’t need to take a bike on your trip to go for a ride – shops rent quality bikes, including new, name-brand trail bikes. A few great shorter-distance paved trails that are perfect for families: the Three Eagle Trail, the Presque Isle/Winchester Bike Route and the Land O’ Lakes Bike Trail.

Intermediate

If you want to explore some of Vilas County’s beautiful scenery, consider a bike trip along the Vista Lake Bike Routes. These three routes, which range from 2.9 miles to 13.1 miles, take cyclists through the pines and ashes of the Nicolet National Forest. The varied trail surface includes some paved areas, as well as gravel sections and hard-packed sandy loam forest lanes. Riders will find mostly gently rolling terrain, though some sections are hilly.  A parking area is accessible via Hwy. 17 or Hwy. A south of Phelps.

Advanced

Riders who are seeking longer or more challenging terrain can find it in Vilas County. Road bikers will find endless miles of scenic paved routes to explore. Vilas County area shops also sell spare tubes and other supplies to keep you rolling. Want a longer ride? Check out the Heart of Vilas County Paved Bike Trail System, a 45-mile route that connects the communities of Manitowish Waters, Boulder Junction, Sayner/Star Lake and St. Germain. This scenic route skirts the shores of several gorgeous lakes, including Trout Lake, Plum Lake, Crystal Lake and Rest Lake. The route also crosses the Wisconsin River and Rice Creek. Want to get off road? Check out the Anvil Lake Trail in Eagle River and the WinMan Trails in Winchester and Manitowish Waters. Located on 1,300 acres of private and public land, the trails offer challenging mountain biking. Return in the winter for fat biking.

 

Want more trails info?

Download the Map It Vilas County trails app or order the Vilas County Silent Sports Trail Map today.