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New Wisconsin Trail Report for hiking, biking launched
setterstrom bike trail
Lydia and Matthew Setterstrom bike on the Badger State Trail between Monroe and Monticello Aug. 29, 2020. - photo by Adam Krebs

MADISON — As many head out to celebrate Wisconsin’s natural spaces in preparation for Earth Day, Travel Wisconsin, in partnership with the Office of Outdoor Recreation, launched a new Wisconsin Trail Report. The Wisconsin Trail Report lists current conditions for hiking and biking trail networks throughout the state. It also includes basic trail descriptions and links to additional resources.

For the first time, the new Wisconsin Trail Report brings together a collection of trail networks all across the state and from a range of land managers including the Wisconsin State Park System, various county and municipal parks, as well as private or nonprofit organizations like nature centers. No other resource showcases the vast trail offerings in Wisconsin with current condition reports.

The reports also include brief descriptions of the trail networks to inform users about the total mileage, type of terrain and landscape, facilities (like restrooms) available, or if fees are required. Biking trails are categorized as recreational or mountain bike trails and list the surface type. Dozens of local reporters keep the 140 hiking and biking reports updated weekly or after major weather events or ongoing construction. Reporters are a mix of hiking and biking enthusiasts, members of clubs or friend groups, land managers and destination marketing organizations. 

“The Wisconsin Trail Report is a gateway to adventure,” said Acting Secretary Anne Sayers. “Outdoor recreation is one of the leading reasons people travel to Wisconsin and this will serve as a great resource to understand the general trail conditions in an area as travelers plan a hiking or biking outing throughout our beautiful state.”

Covering more than just the trails, the Wisconsin Trail Report lists the current weather forecast for the area, nearby activities, attractions, dining and lodging, as well as photos of the trail network and nearby facilities.

“This project is a great example of how the Office of Outdoor Recreation connects an industry need to a partner or government agency who can host the resource, and we’re grateful for the collaboration with Travel Wisconsin and Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources,” said Mary Monroe Brown, Director of the Office of Outdoor Recreation. “The Office is truly a hub for the outdoor industry working to connect the dots between Wisconsin’s natural resources, how we enjoy them and the people and organizations that help make that possible.”

For more ideas for springtime adventures, visit travelwisconsin.com.