Great Sauk State Trail
A scenic 11-mile paved trail along the Wisconsin River, featuring public art and connecting to the Sauk Prairie Recreation Area.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant temps, fewer crowds
Great Sauk State Trail
Best Time
Pleasant temps, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A scenic 11-mile paved trail along the Wisconsin River, featuring public art and connecting to the Sauk Prairie Recreation Area.
"Beautiful trail with great views and interesting art, perfect for a relaxing bike ride."
Pack Plenty of Water 💧
Limited shade means you'll need hydration, especially on sunny days. :water_buffalo:
Watch for Road Crossings 🚗
Some street crossings can be busy; drivers may not always yield to cyclists. :cyclist: :car:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Wisconsin River Views
Along the trail
Enjoy picturesque vistas of the mighty Wisconsin River as you cycle or walk.
Public Art Installations
Scattered along the trail
Discover unique sculptures and artwork that add an artistic flair to your journey.
Sauk Prairie Recreation Area
Southern end of the trail
Explore this expansive area offering diverse natural landscapes and wildlife viewing opportunities.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Trail Etiquette & Safety
Best Access Points
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Pack Plenty of Water 💧
Limited shade means you'll need hydration, especially on sunny days. :water_buffalo:
Watch for Road Crossings 🚗
Some street crossings can be busy; drivers may not always yield to cyclists. :cyclist: :car:
Explore the Art 🎨
Keep an eye out for the interesting sculptures dotted along the trail. :art:
Check Trail Extension Status 🚧
Newer sections may open; check local park updates for the latest. :construction_worker:
Tips
from all over the internet
Pack Plenty of Water 💧
Limited shade means you'll need hydration, especially on sunny days. :water_buffalo:
Watch for Road Crossings 🚗
Some street crossings can be busy; drivers may not always yield to cyclists. :cyclist: :car:
Explore the Art 🎨
Keep an eye out for the interesting sculptures dotted along the trail. :art:
Check Trail Extension Status 🚧
Newer sections may open; check local park updates for the latest. :construction_worker:
Gravel Bike Friendly 🚲
The paved trail is great for road bikes, but gravel bikes can also handle offshoots. :mountain_biking:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Great Sauk State Trail for its beautiful scenery and smooth, paved surface, making it ideal for biking and walking. Some users wish for more restroom facilities and note that certain road crossings can be hazardous for cyclists. The lack of shade is also a recurring point.
"beautiful trail, scenery
Just need some portal potty and unfortunately some if the streets to go across may be dangerous as people in cars don’t respect cyclists"
Vivi Ow
"Quaint and decent parking. The trail itself is awesome for biking but he careful not much shade to offer for hiker or biker on a sunny day."
Priyojit Ganguly (PG)
"Great multi use path. Beautiful scenery and there are a couple of off shoots you can explore as well."
delbert cline
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The trail is accessible from multiple points in Sauk City and Prairie du Sac. Parking is available at various trailheads, including those near the Wisconsin River. :car: :bus:
Yes, parking is available at several access points, particularly in Sauk City and Prairie du Sac. :parking:
While the trail is near the Devils Lake area, direct access from the north end to Devils Lake via Burma Road is not well-developed and may be challenging for cyclists. :hikingboot: :mountainbiking:
The trail primarily passes through Sauk City and Prairie du Sac, extending into the Sauk Prairie State Recreation Area. :town_name:
The Great Sauk State Trail is part of a larger network and connects to other recreational areas, including the Ice Age Trail. :hiking_boot: :cyclist:
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Great Sauk State Trail is a public recreational area and does not require an admission ticket. :free:
The trail is generally open from dawn to dusk. Always check local park advisories for any specific closures or hours. :clock1:
Parking at the designated trailheads is typically free. :moneywithwings:
The trail is open to the public and does not require reservations. :ticket:
For larger organized events, it's advisable to contact Sauk County Parks to inquire about any necessary permits. :clipboard:
🎫 🚴 Onsite Experience
The main trail is a smooth, paved surface, making it ideal for biking and walking. :paved_road: :cyclist:
The trail is approximately 11 miles one way, with a recently opened 1.4-mile extension. :straight_ruler:
Absolutely! It's a popular choice for cyclists, offering a smooth, paved path with beautiful scenery. :biking_man:
Some users have noted a need for more portable restrooms. It's recommended to check for available facilities at main access points. :toilet:
The trail has limited shade, so be prepared with sun protection, especially during warmer months. :sunwithface:
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, the trail passes through Sauk City and Prairie du Sac, which offer various dining options from local cafes to restaurants. :forkandknife:
Picnicking is permitted. There are some areas where you can stop and enjoy a meal, but designated picnic tables might be limited. :picnic_table:
While there aren't restaurants directly on the trail, many are located in the adjacent towns of Sauk City and Prairie du Sac. :restaurant:
You can find a range of options, including local Wisconsin fare, casual dining, and cafes in the nearby towns. :pizza: :burger:
Given the limited amenities and potential for heat, bringing your own water and snacks is highly recommended. :water_bottle: :apple:
📸 📸 Photography
The Wisconsin River views, public art installations, and the natural landscapes of the Sauk Prairie Recreation Area offer great photo opportunities. :camerawithflash:
It's best to stop at designated points or pull-offs to safely take photos while biking. :cyclist: :camerawithflash:
Expect scenic river views, open prairies, and unique sculptures. The changing seasons also offer diverse photographic subjects. :river: :flower_field:
The trail has historical significance and artwork that tells a story, providing interesting subjects for photography. :old_key:
Early morning and late afternoon offer softer light, ideal for capturing the beauty of the river and landscapes. :sunrise: :sunset:
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While shade is limited, planning for a morning or late afternoon visit can help manage sun exposure. Look out for the public art installations along the trail, which can add an element of fun and discovery for children.
These unique sculptures can spark imagination and make the ride more engaging. The proximity to Sauk City and Prairie du Sac also means easy access to restrooms and potential dining options if needed. 🚲 Cycling Enthusiasts
The trail's smooth surface and scenic views along the Wisconsin River are major draws. Many riders use it for training, with some tackling the full length and exploring extensions. +1 Be aware that some street crossings can be busy, and drivers may not always be attentive to cyclists. While the main trail is paved, some users enjoy exploring offshoots with gravel bikes.
The trail's relatively recent establishment means it's well-maintained, providing a pleasant riding experience. Remember to carry sufficient water and snacks, as shade is minimal, and facilities can be sparse. 🏞️ Nature Lovers & Photographers
+1 The trail is a great place for birdwatching and enjoying the tranquility of the outdoors. +1Early morning and late afternoon light often provide the most picturesque conditions for photography.
Remember to bring your camera and take advantage of the accessible viewpoints to document your experience. :camerawithflash: :river: :camera:Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Trail: Biking and Walking
+2For those seeking a bit more adventure, the trail offers opportunities to explore offshoots and connect with other recreational areas. Some users have inquired about extending their journey to nearby attractions like Devils Lake, though direct connections may require careful planning and potentially navigating less-developed routes.
When planning your visit, consider the time of day to maximize your enjoyment. Weekday afternoons tend to be less crowded than weekends, allowing for a more peaceful experience.
Whether you're looking for a short stroll or a longer cycling excursion, the Great Sauk State Trail offers a refreshing escape into Wisconsin's natural beauty. :river: :prairie:Art and History Along the Path
+1 These artistic elements provide interesting points of interest and make the trail more engaging for visitors. The trail also holds historical significance, with information available along the path that sheds light on the region's past. This blend of natural scenery, art, and history creates a rich tapestry for visitors to discover.
It's a place where you can not only enjoy a physical activity but also learn and appreciate the local heritage. For those interested in the history and development of the trail, resources are available through local park departments.
This makes the Great Sauk State Trail more than just a recreational path; it's a journey through art, nature, and local history. :art: :old_key:
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit