Are dogs allowed on Elroy-Sparta State Trail?

Yes, dogs are allowed on Elroy-Sparta State Trail but must be kept on a leash at all times. Pack out waste and respect wildlife.

Do I need a permit to hike Elroy-Sparta State Trail?

No, Elroy-Sparta State Trail does not currently require a permit. Still check for seasonal closures or day-use fees with the managing agency before heading out.

How difficult is Elroy-Sparta State Trail?

Elroy-Sparta State Trail is rated moderate. It is 35.2 miles long with 1,289 feet of elevation gain. Difficulty ratings reflect a combination of distance, elevation gain, and terrain — your experience will depend on your fitness level and trail conditions.

Status unknown — verify before visiting

We don't have current condition data for this trail. Check with the land manager before you go.

See Wisconsin trail conditions

ModeratePoint to Point

Wisconsin

Elroy-Sparta State Trail

Elroy, Wisconsin

35.2 mi

Distance

1,289 ft

Elev. Gain

12h 16m

Est. Time

Point to Point

Route Type

Moderate

Difficulty

About This Trail

The Elroy-Sparta State Trail is a 32.5-mile (52.3 km) Wisconsin State rail trail between Elroy and Sparta, Wisconsin. Considered to be the first rail trail when it opened in 1967, it was designed for foot, bicycle, equestrian and light motorized traffic. Designated a multi-use trail, it offers recreational access to the routes and is open to the public. The trail is part of the larger Wisconsin bike trail system operated by the state of Wisconsin. It passes through rural scenery and three tunnels. It is one of six connecting trails in west-central Wisconsin. It was added to the Rails-to-Trails Conservancy hall of Fame in September 2008. It is one of the most popular trails in Wisconsin.

Source: Wikipedia — text licensed CC BY-SA 4.0. Verify trail conditions and seasonal closures with the managing agency before you go.

Trail Conditions

Unknown

We have no current condition data for this trail. Check with the operator before you go, and submit a report below if you've been recently.

No recent condition reports. Be the first to share what you see on the trail.

Elevation Profile

Min:242 ft

Max:424 ft

393 ft

441 ft

Trail Details

Route Type: Point to Point
Surface: Dirt

Official sources & verification

We don't have curated agency sources for this trail in our cache yet. Outdoors is not the permitting authority — confirm conditions, permits, and access with the managing agency before you go. If you know who manages this trail, please tell us.

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Legacy import — verify before navigating

Path geometry came from our pre-launch legacy database. Routes have not yet been re-verified against the operator and may differ from the actual trail.