This Unique Rail Biking Experience In Wisconsin Belongs On Your Bucket List
By Ben Jones|Published July 12, 2022
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Ben Jones
Author
Ben Jones is at heart an adventurer who delights in inspiring others. A former reporter and photojournalist, he explored towns large and small as a Wisconsin correspondent for USA Today. He later became a lead photographer and senior copywriter for an award-winning destination marketing agency, before founding Boldland Creative, a company that produces photography, video, and other content for travel destinations. Jones has completed photography and content projects in more than 15 states and when he’s not looking through a camera or at his Macbook you’ll find him exploring the world’s lakes and forests.
Door County is a paradise for those who love to explore the world on two wheels. The county has endless miles of biking routes that travel along scenic lakeshores, through lush apple and cherry orchards, and into quaint lakeside villages. There’s one biking experience unlike any other – it’s a scenic route on a former trail corridor that will take you through Southern Door and into another county, all while winding through a beautiful stretch of scenery. Pump up your bike tires: here’s what’s waiting for you on the Ahnapee State Trail in Wisconsin.
The northern trailhead can be found in Sturgeon Bay, the largest community in Door County. It takes bikers on an unforgettable rail journey south, following the paths of the Ahnapee River and the Kewaunee River.
The trail has a relatively long history. It’s built on the Ahnapee and Western Railway right of way – the land was purchased by the state of Wisconsin in 1970.
Because it was built on a railway path, the trail is relatively level but you’ll want to ride a bike that can handle some gravel. The trail is also open to walkers, joggers, horseback riders, and pets on leashes so you may have some company on the trail.
You’ll encounter a lot of scenic farmland and tranquil stretches on the trail – if you’re looking to escape the weekend crowds of Northern Door County, this may be just what you need!
The Ahnapee State Trail is open year-round. In the winter, it’s not plowed and it’s used by cross-country skiers and snowmobilers. Learn more on the state DNR website. If you enjoy exploring Wisconsin’s rail trails, here’s another you’ll want to experience.
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