Elroy-Sparta State Trail

Often called the first rail trail in the United States, this 32.5-mile crushed limestone route in western Wisconsin is a natural adventure for kids: three rock tunnels, the longest more than 3,800 feet, where riders walk their bikes through the dark by flashlight or headlamp. Five small towns, Elroy, Kendall, Wilton, Norwalk and Sparta, sit along the way, so a family can stop every few miles. The Kendall Depot holds the trail headquarters and a museum, Elroy and Sparta both have bike rental, and a Sparta shop runs shuttles for a one-way ride. A Wisconsin state trail pass is required for cyclists, and the tunnels close for the winter, so plan a visit between May and October.