Great River State Trail
Often hailed as one of the most beautiful biking and walking paths in the upper Midwest, the Great River State Trail winds for 24 glorious miles through some of Wisconsin’s most stunning river topography. Built on an abandoned Chicago and North Western Railway line, this relatively flat, crushed-limestone path traces the eastern shoreline of the mighty Mississippi River.
Whether you’re a long-distance cyclist looking to tackle the interconnected “Bike 4 Trails” system, a birder seeking the perfect vantage point in the Mississippi Flyway, or a family wanting a peaceful weekend stroll, the Great River State Trail offers an unforgettable journey through prairies, hardwood forests, and charming historic river towns.
Trail Overview & Pass Requirements
Because the Great River State Trail is a designated state trail, it is flawlessly maintained year-round. It is open for walking, jogging, and bicycling during the warmer months, and seamlessly transitions into a pristine corridor for snowmobiling, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing when the Wisconsin winter sets in.
Spanning from the city of Onalaska in the south to the small community of Marshland in the north, the trail provides unparalleled access to several protected natural areas, including the Upper Mississippi River National Wildlife and Fish Refuge, Trempealeau National Wildlife Refuge, and Perrot State Park.
Key Trailheads and Access Points
One of the best aspects of the Great River State Trail is how accessible it is. You don’t have to commit to the full 24-mile trek; you can easily hop on and off at various parking areas and trailheads dotted along the route.
| Trailhead Location | Access Features | Nearby Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Onalaska (Southern Terminus) | Great River Landing & Medary Trailhead. Parking available. | Connects to the La Crosse River State Trail. Excellent restaurants nearby. |
| Trempealeau (Mid-point) | Parking on W Prairie Rd & Hwy 35 East. | Direct access to Perrot State Park and Trempealeau Wildlife Refuge. |
| Marshland (Northern Terminus) | Intersection of Refuge Rd. & West Prairie Rd. | Quiet, secluded northern access point. |
Bridges and Natural Beauty
A major highlight of traversing the Great River State Trail is crossing its 18 distinct bridges. These bridges span various waterways, including the Black River, Shingle Creek, and Tank Creek, offering elevated, panoramic views of the wetlands that you can’t get from the highway. (Note: Always check the Wisconsin DNR website for current bridge closures, as severe weather or fires occasionally necessitate temporary detours, such as the recent closure over Tank Creek).
Birdwatchers should bring their binoculars, as the trail’s location within the Mississippi Flyway makes it a world-class destination for spotting migratory birds. During the spring and fall migrations, it’s common to see massive flocks of tundra swans, pelicans, bald eagles, and rare waterfowl utilizing the backwaters of the river valley.
Connecting to the “Bike 4 Trails” System
If 24 miles simply isn’t enough, the Great River State Trail serves as the northernmost segment of Wisconsin’s famous “Bike 4 Trails” system. At its southern terminus in Onalaska, it directly links up with the La Crosse River State Trail.
From there, ambitious cyclists can continue southeast to connect with the Elroy-Sparta State Trail (famous for its long, dark railway tunnels) and eventually the 400 State Trail. In total, this continuous network provides over 100 miles of protected, off-road bicycling through the breathtaking Driftless Area of Wisconsin.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a trail pass just to walk on the Great River State Trail?
No, walking and hiking on the trail are completely free. However, if you are bicycling or using a snowmobile, you must purchase a State Trail Pass if you are 16 years of age or older.
What kind of surface is the trail? Is it paved?
The Great River State Trail is NOT paved. It features a finely crushed limestone surface. Because it is built on an old railroad bed, it is very hard-packed and flat, making it perfectly suitable for road bikes, hybrid bikes, and gravel bikes.
How long is the Great River State Trail?
The official length of the trail is 24 miles, connecting Onalaska to Marshland. With an incredibly subtle grade, it is considered an easy-to-moderate ride depending entirely on the distance you choose to cover.
Can I access Perrot State Park from the trail?
Yes, absolutely! The trail passes right by Perrot State Park near the town of Trempealeau. It’s an excellent spot to lock up your bike and hike up Brady’s Bluff for some of the best views of the Mississippi River in the entire state.
