4. Fox River State Trail
Green Bay to Hilbert (Northeastern Wisconsin)
25 Miles (Asphalt And Pavers For 11 Miles, Crushed Limestone For 14 Miles)
Another “rails to trails,” the Fox River State Trail follows the Fox River in Green Bay and De Pere, then leaves the river as it continues south, following the former railroad track.
On the north end of the trail, you’ll see sculptures that are a tribute to the land and water. In De Pere, it’s fun to see a large, painted historic mural along the trail and stop at Voyager Park, a pretty place with tall trees and more great views of the river.
Photo credit: Joan Sherman
5. Gandy Dancer State Trail
Danbury To St. Croix Falls (Northwestern Wisconsin)
47 Miles (Southern Segment, Mostly Crushed Limestone)
This curiously named trail, the Gandy Dancer State Trail, commemorates gandy dancers, the hardworking crews who manually restored railroad tracks. They used “Gandy” brand tools, and “dancer” is a nod to the rhythmic motion as they worked together tamping down ties or adjusting rails. We started our 24-mile ride in St. Croix Falls and rode through forests and along farmland. The trail is heavily canopied with mature trees, providing great shade on a sunny day, and would be a spectacular fall ride.
Photo credit: Joan Sherman
