Photo: Lower Yahara River Trail Boardwalk Bridge
Madison’s Bike-Friendly Lifestyle
Madison, Wisconsin is one of only five “Platinum” Bicycle Friendly Communities in the U.S., according to the League of American Bicyclists. It’s also the only one east of the Mississippi River.
The city and surrounding communities feature an extensive network of dedicated bike paths, lanes, and trails, making cycling accessible, easy, and safe year-round. Whether you’re a fitness enthusiast, commuter, or weekend explorer, you’ll find bikes everywhere in Madison.
Adding to the local bike culture, Trek Bicycle Corporation has its global headquarters just 30 minutes away in Waterloo, WI.
BCycle Madison – E-Bike Share System
BCycle Madison offers an extensive e-bike share network with stations throughout the city and beyond. You can pick up or drop off bikes at any station and check availability on their live map.
Dedicated Bike & Recreational Trails
These state and local trails connect Madison to nearby communities and natural areas. (State trail pass required for most.)
- Cap City State Trail – Map on Strava
- Badger State Trail – Map on Strava
- Military Ridge Trail – Map on Strava
- Glacial Drumlin Trail – Map on Strava
Popular Road Cycling Routes
Photo: One Oak Bicycles Paoli WI
- Paoli Loop: A classic weekend route ending in the small town of Paoli. Stop by 1 Oak Bicycles or enjoy coffee by the Sugar River. Route on Strava
- Lake Monona Loop: Madison’s most popular ride. A scenic mix of paths, quiet streets, and lake views. Route on Strava
- Arboretum Loop: Combines the Southwest Commuter Path with serene roads through the UW Arboretum’s 1,200 acres. Route on Strava
- Southwest Commuter / Cap City Loop: Relaxed, mostly off-street route great for casual riders. Route on Strava
- Cap City to Lower Yahara River Trail: Cross the stunning Lower Yahara Boardwalk Bridge — the longest of its kind in North America. Route on Strava
Local Cycling Clubs & Group Rides
- Brazen Dropouts – Fast rides (~20 mph) every other Saturday from Machinery Row Bicycles. Instagram | Strava
- Bombay Bicycle Club – Social rides for all levels, often with coffee stops. Instagram | Strava
- Capitol Brewery Bike Club – A–E groups (including e-bike rides) starting and ending at Capitol Brewery in Middleton.
- Cap City Cyclists – A newer club hosting frequent group rides. Instagram | Strava
Mountain Bike Trails
Photo: Blackhawk Ski Club Mountain Bike Trails, Middleton WI
CORP Trails maintains most mountain bike areas around Madison. Find maps, conditions, and volunteer info on their website.
- Seminole Trails: Easy & intermediate loops near the Cannonball/Military Ridge junction.
- Quarry Ridge: Variety of skill levels; often paired with Seminole for longer rides.
- Badger Prairie County Park: Non-technical loop, great for families and CX training.
- CamRock County Park: East of Madison in Cambridge; easy to advanced trails.
- Saris Trails: Small private park behind Saris HQ (waiver required).
- Blackhawk Ski Club: Private membership trails with MTB and winter fat-bike routes.
Community Bike Organizations
Annual Cycling Events
- Bike the Barns (September)
- Pick Me Up at the Border (September)
- Badger Challenge (September)
- Trek CX Cup (October)
- Loop the Lake (June)
- Brazen Dropouts Bike Swap (January)
More listings on the Wisconsin Bike Fed Event Calendar.
Get in Touch
Know of a great Madison-area bike route, trail, or group we missed? Contact us.