Visiting the Great Sauk Trail in Sauk County, WI
The Great Sauk Trail is a recreational trail in Wisconsin, winding through picturesque landscapes and historic towns. This paved trail is a favorite among locals and visitors, providing an ideal setting for biking and various outdoor activities in the Sauk Prairie area. Explore picturesque landscapes and quaint towns along the way, making memories that will last a lifetime.
History of the Great Sauk Trail
The construction of the Great Sauk Trail began in 2017, utilizing the Rails to Trails program, which repurposes former rail corridors into multi-use trails. Originally part of the Union Pacific rail corridor, this trail now provides a scenic route for bikers, joggers, hikers, roller bladers, and more. The trail is open for hiking and snowshoeing in the winter.
Trail Route and Highlights
Spanning just over 11 miles, the Great Sauk Trail parallels the Wisconsin River, passing through the communities of Prairie du Sac and Sauk City, and into the heart of the Sauk Prairie State Recreation Area, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape and historic towns. Notable highlights include beautiful views of the river, scenic landscapes, and opportunities for wildlife spotting.
View a map of the Great Sauk State Trail here.
Accessibility and Amenities
The Great Sauk Trail is designed to be an accessible trail to people of all ages and abilities. Amenities along the trail include rest areas, picnic spots, and informational signage providing insights into the area’s history and natural features.
Trail Pass Requirements
Visitors 16 years of age and older are required to have a trail pass for biking and rollerblading activities on the Great Sauk Trail. Trail passes can be purchased on-site (near the Ruth Culver Community Library) or at various local vendors, including the Sauk Prairie Chamber of Commerce) for daily or annual access.
The trail pass fee is $5 / day or $25 / year and a portion of the proceeds from trail pass sales directly support the maintenance and improvement of the trail.
**E-bikes now available to rent at Riverview Adventure Company. E-bikes provide electric assistance, making pedaling easier and less strenuous. This means your bike ride can cover longer distances and you can conquer hills with less effort, allowing greater exploration of the scenic trails without feeling fatigued.
Dogs on the Trail
Dogs are welcome but need to be on a leash and you must pick up after them.
Parking and Access Points to the Great Sauk Trail
Convenient parking options are available at multiple access points along the trail, including the intersection of Water Street and Washington Street, near the Ruth Culver Library. Visitors can find another parking lot at the corner of County Hwy Z and State Hwy 78, and, lastly, a lot located on Goette Road.
Public restrooms are available near these locations during specific hours and parking is free at these designated areas, providing easy access for trail users.
Future Expansion and Connectivity of the Great Sauk Trail
The Great Sauk Trail is part of a larger vision to expand and connect with other trails in the region. Future plans include extending the trail northward to Devil’s Lake State Park, the 400 State Trail in Reedsburg, and the Elroy-Sparta Trail in La Valle and southward to the Walking Iron Trail and other Dane County trail systems via a bridge over the Wisconsin River. Partnerships with planning and design consultation firms are driving efforts to realize this vision and create a comprehensive trail network spanning the state.
So, what are you waiting for? Grab your gear, gather your friends and family, and set forth on a journey of discovery along the Great Sauk Trail.
Nearby Attractions in Sauk County
- Merrimac Ferry
- Swimming pools and splash pads
- Local campgrounds
- Devils Lake State Park and other great hiking adventures
- Wineries and breweries
- Circus World Museum
