Going for a bike ride in the Eagle River area isn’t so much about the exercise or the fun destination as it is about the views – especially in the fall. It’s during this time of year that the bright fall colors decorate the crisp cool air along the 80 miles of bike trails in our neck of the woods.
A variety of trails and routes can offer an easy-going family experience to a more challenging terrain for avid bikers. And don’t worry about bringing a bicycle to explore the Eagle River area, one of the area’s many rental shops can provide equipment for any need.
We put together a starter pack of trails and routes to pedal the next time you’re in town. So whether you’re a local, a seasonal cabin dweller, or a first-time tourist, check out these trails and routes that the Eagle River area can offer.
Three Eagle Trail
This 13-mile trail connects the communities of Eagle River and Three Lakes. Although the length might seem intimidating, this trail is fit for families with gently rolling terrain and a number of spots to stop and take in nature.
From Eagle River, the trail begins at the Historic Rail Depot and heads south past the Dairy Queen down a crushed limestone path along the former Chicago and Northwestern Railroad grade for a little more than a mile. After crossing the 660-foot-long boardwalk and bridge, the rest of the northern part of the trail includes a mix of open land and forest. The 8-plus-miles of the southern part of the trail features woodlands and wetlands, which also include a bridge and two scenic boardwalks.
Heart of Vilas Trail System
West and north of Eagle River is a system of more than a dozen trails that connect six Northwoods communities. The family-friends trails range in distance from a few miles to nearly 20 miles and are mostly flat or rolling terrain that allow for relaxed biking excursions. Some trails do include steeper hills. Cyclists get views of pristine lakes, impressive forests, wetlands, and even community downtowns.
Ripco Road Unit
South of Eagle River, the Ripco Road Unit Trail opened recently in 2017. The area includes nearly 800 acres of land and has many miles of trail roads throughout. During the spring, summer and fall, it offers beautiful wooded views from a green ground-covered path. During winter, this trail is perfect for fat-tire biking. The trail is groomed for biking as weather dictates. A winter-only trail is still under development.
Wilderness Lakes Trail
Visit our neighbors in the Michigan Upper Peninsula on this multi-state trail. The entire loop covers more than 40 miles that utilizes paved bike paths and road bike routes. Expect to spend an entire morning or afternoon on this trail if you want to power through it or an entire day if you want to take your time through this gorgeously wooded landscape. The Wilderness Lakes Trail also provides access to the 12-mile Agonikak National Trail, which is a 10-foot-wide gravel trail just north of Land O’Lakes. A 40-foot bridge crossing Duck Creek is a favorite spot among many bicyclists.
WinMan Trails
These trails are for cyclists looking to hone their biking skills in a natural environment on 1,300 acres of public and private lands. These machine-built flow trails near North Lakeland Discovery Center are designed for riders of all skill levels. Depending on the route taken, the trail length can range from 4 to 14 miles. Winding trails offer cyclists the opportunity to test their agility on trails that allow for aggressive turns or leisurely strolls.
Get on a Bicycle in Eagle River
The fresh air on our open and wooded trails and routes are waiting for cyclists like you! If you need more help finding a trail you and the family might enjoy, check out this video that is sure to get you pumped up for a ride.
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