Sugar River State Trail
Trail Quick Facts
About the Sugar River State Trail
The Sugar River State Trail is a 23-mile recreational rail trail that winds through the scenic farmlands and historic communities of south-central Wisconsin. Following the abandoned New Glarus Branch railroad line, the trail connects four charming towns—New Glarus, Monticello, Albany, and Brodhead—while paralleling the meandering Sugar River and Little Sugar River through Green County.
Known locally as the “Limburger Special” for the railroad that once transported the region’s famous cheese to market, this National Recreation Trail offers an accessible, family-friendly experience through gently rolling countryside. The trail features crushed limestone surface suitable for bicycles, a short paved section near New Glarus, and crosses 14 historic trestle bridges over rivers and tributaries.
Trail Character & Scenery
The Sugar River State Trail traverses diverse landscapes that showcase Wisconsin’s agricultural heritage and natural beauty. Riders and hikers experience gently rolling hills, open meadows dotted with wildflowers, working dairy farms with Holstein cattle, and hardwood forests of oak, hickory, walnut, and cherry. River bottom wetlands support cottonwoods, cattails, and reeds, while remnant prairies burst with colorful native plants in summer.
The trail corridor provides excellent wildlife habitat. Common sightings include white-tailed deer, wild turkeys, songbirds, waterfowl, and small mammals including squirrels, chipmunks, turtles, and salamanders. The Albany Wildlife Area section offers particularly rich wildlife viewing opportunities.
Difficulty Level
The Sugar River State Trail is rated easy, making it ideal for families, casual cyclists, and beginning trail users. The abandoned railroad grade provides gentle, consistent grades with minimal elevation change—only 219 feet of total elevation gain over 23 miles. The crushed limestone surface is generally well-packed and suitable for hybrid bicycles and wider-tired road bikes, though some sections can become soft or develop ruts after heavy rain.
Most trail users complete segments between communities rather than the full 23-mile distance. The popular New Glarus to Monticello section offers approximately 6.5 miles each way (13-mile round trip) and is considered the best-maintained portion of the trail.
Elevation & Terrain
As a rail trail following an abandoned railroad grade, the Sugar River State Trail maintains very gentle, consistent grades suitable for all ability levels. Total elevation gain is minimal at approximately 219 feet over the entire 23-mile distance. The trail ranges from roughly 780 feet elevation near Brodhead to around 830 feet near New Glarus, with gradual changes throughout.
The consistent grade and relatively flat terrain make this trail particularly accessible for families with children, those towing trailers, adaptive cyclists, and hikers of all fitness levels. The crushed limestone surface is generally firm and suitable for most bicycle types, though mountain bikes or hybrids provide more comfortable riding on occasional rougher sections.
Historical Background
The Sugar River State Trail follows the route of the New Glarus Branch of the Chicago, Milwaukee, St. Paul, and Pacific Railroad, affectionately known as the “Limburger Special.” The railroad laid tracks from Brodhead to Albany in 1880, extending to New Glarus a few years later to serve the region’s thriving dairy and cheese industry. The line transported the area’s famous Limburger cheese and other dairy products to markets.
After the railroad was abandoned, the Wisconsin DNR acquired the corridor and developed it as a state trail, opening it for public recreation. The trail was designated a National Recreation Trail and is now part of the Aldo Leopold Legacy Trail System, honoring the famous conservationist and “father of wildlife ecology” who was born in nearby Burlington, Wisconsin.
Trail Route Guide
The Sugar River State Trail runs 23 miles from north to south through Green County, Wisconsin. Most users tackle the trail in segments between towns rather than completing the entire distance. The trail is well-marked with mile markers on the New Glarus to Monticello section.
Trail Segments
New Glarus to Monticello (6.5 miles)
Distance: 6.5 miles one-way, 13 miles round trip
Surface: 1 mile paved, 5.5 miles crushed limestone
Character: Best-maintained section, clear mile markers, mostly shaded
This most popular segment begins at the restored 1887 depot in downtown New Glarus (elevation ~830 ft). The first mile is paved as it parallels State Highway 69, then transitions to crushed limestone. The trail passes the Edelweiss Golf Course southwest of town before entering countryside characterized by rolling farmland, hardwood forests, and occasional river views. This section features good tree canopy for shade and crosses several trestle bridges. Trail passes through or near New Glarus Woods State Park via a connector trail.
Monticello to Albany (8 miles)
Distance: 8 miles one-way
Surface: Crushed limestone
Character: Longest segment, most scenic, numerous bridges
From Monticello, the trail continues south through the Albany Wildlife Area, offering excellent wildlife viewing opportunities and the most scenic riding on the entire trail. This section overlaps with 9 miles of the Ice Age National Scenic Trail, a 1,200-mile hiking path across Wisconsin. The trail crosses multiple trestle bridges over the Sugar River and its tributaries, with particularly beautiful views in the wildlife area’s protected wetlands and forests. The Albany Wildlife Area portion is also open to hunting during designated seasons (Saturday nearest October 17 through January 31).
The segment ends in Albany at the North Cincinnati Street trailhead. Downtown Albany offers views of the historic dam on the Sugar River and the Albany Historical Museum. Trail users must exercise caution crossing Highway 59 on the north end of Albany.
Albany to Brodhead (8.5 miles)
Distance: 8.5 miles one-way
Surface: Crushed limestone
Character: Rural farmland, covered bridge feature
The southern section travels through open farmland with pastures featuring dairy cattle and working farms. Highlights include crossing Norwegian Creek through a picturesque covered bridge near Brodhead. Built in 1984 from reclaimed wood supplied by the DNR from demolished barns and buildings, this covered bridge is a popular photo opportunity.
The trail ends at West 3rd Avenue and Decatur Road in Brodhead (elevation ~780 ft). Note that parking in Brodhead is farther from the trail terminus compared to other access points. The Brodhead Depot Museum chronicles the area’s railroad history and is open during summer months.
Trail Connections
Ice Age National Scenic Trail: A 9-mile section of the 1,200-mile Ice Age Trail overlaps the Sugar River State Trail between the Badger State Trail junction (near Monticello) and Bump Road in Albany. This section follows the terminal edge of the Wisconsin lobe of the last glacier to cover the state.
Badger State Trail: Intersects the Sugar River State Trail just south of Monticello trailhead. The Badger State Trail extends northeast toward Madison and southwest toward the Illinois border, offering expanded riding opportunities. Near the junction, riders can take a short detour to visit the historic Stewart Tunnel.
New Glarus Woods State Park: A short connector trail links the Sugar River State Trail to this state park south of New Glarus, which offers 18 family campsites and 14 primitive bike camping sites, plus picnic areas.
Typical Itineraries
Half-Day Ride (13 miles): New Glarus to Monticello round trip. Start at the depot, ride 6.5 miles to Monticello for lunch, return. Approximately 2-3 hours riding time. Most popular option for families and casual riders.
Full Day Ride (32-46 miles): Either New Glarus to Albany round trip (32 miles) or full New Glarus to Brodhead round trip (46 miles). Plan 4-6 hours riding time plus stops. Suitable for regular cyclists.
One-Way Shuttle Ride (23 miles): Arrange vehicle shuttle or ride service between New Glarus and Brodhead. Ride the full trail downhill (north to south) in 3-4 hours. Note: shuttle services are limited; inquire at New Glarus Chamber of Commerce.
Multi-Trail Adventure: Combine Sugar River State Trail with Badger State Trail at Monticello junction for extended riding to Madison or toward Monroe and the Illinois border. Experienced cyclists can create 50+ mile routes.
Planning Your Visit
Best Times to Visit
The Sugar River State Trail is open year-round, but the best times for bicycling and hiking are March through November. Spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) offer the most pleasant conditions with moderate temperatures and beautiful scenery.
Spring (March-May): Mild temperatures (50-70°F), wildflowers bloom, prairie plants emerge, nesting birds active. Trail can be soft or muddy in early spring after snowmelt or heavy rain. Late April through May offers ideal conditions.
Summer (June-August): Warmest temperatures (70-85°F), excellent for morning or evening rides. Tree canopy provides shade on much of the trail. Occasional thunderstorms possible. Mosquitoes can be present near wetlands in early summer. Most crowded season.
Fall (September-October): Outstanding season with comfortable temperatures (55-70°F), brilliant fall foliage, fewer crowds. September through mid-October considered by many the premium time to visit. Hardwood forests display spectacular autumn colors.
Winter (December-March): Trail is open for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing, but not groomed. Snowmobiling permitted when there are 4+ inches of snow or groomed base. Winter conditions vary significantly year to year.
Permits & Fees
Wisconsin State Trail Pass Required:
- Daily Pass: $5 (valid for one day)
- Annual Pass: $25 (valid for one year from purchase date)
- Who Needs a Pass: Bicyclists and in-line skaters ages 16 and older
- Free for: Hikers, walkers, children under 16
- Where to Purchase: New Glarus depot/trail headquarters, DNR offices, self-registration stations at trailheads, or online at dnr.wi.gov
- Snowmobilers: Must display Wisconsin snowmobile registration or snowmobile State Trail Pass
Trail Regulations & Rules
- All trail users must yield to horses (though horses are not permitted)
- Bicyclists must yield to pedestrians
- Keep right; pass on left with audible warning
- Dogs must be on leash at all times
- Stay on designated trail; do not create social trails
- Camping and open fires prohibited on trail
- No littering; pack out all trash
- No alcohol consumption on trail
- Horses and motorized vehicles (except snowmobiles in winter) prohibited
- Hunting permitted only in designated Albany Wildlife Area section during specified seasons
Camping Options
New Glarus Woods State Park: Located just south of New Glarus with connector trail access. Offers 18 family campsites (electrical hookups available) and 14 primitive bike camping sites specifically for trail users. Facilities include showers, flush toilets, picnic areas, and hiking trails. Reservations recommended, especially for bike campsites. Open year-round.
Crazy Horse Campground: Private campground near Brodhead, close to the southern trail terminus. Offers full-service campsites.
Area Lodging: All four trail communities (New Glarus, Monticello, Albany, Brodhead) offer hotels, motels, bed & breakfasts, and vacation rentals within easy distance of trailheads. New Glarus has the most options due to its Swiss tourist heritage.
Water & Food
Water Sources: Public water fountains available at trail headquarters in New Glarus and at some trailhead facilities in Monticello and Albany. Always carry sufficient water—plan for at least one liter per person for shorter rides, more for full trail rides, especially in summer heat.
Food & Supplies: All four communities offer restaurants, cafes, and grocery stores within short distance of trail. New Glarus features numerous Swiss restaurants including the famous Glarner Stube. Monticello offers Java Lava coffee shop and Main Street dining. Albany and Brodhead have restaurants and convenience stores. No food or water available directly on trail between towns.
Accessibility
The Sugar River State Trail offers good accessibility for many users. Designated accessible parking spaces are available at New Glarus (2 spaces) and Albany (1 space) trailheads, all van-accessible with striped access aisles. ADA-compliant restrooms are provided at major trailheads.
The trail surface is generally firm crushed limestone, though some sections can be bumpy, rutted, or uneven. The first mile from New Glarus is paved and offers the smoothest surface. Estimated grade is gentle (3% or less) due to railroad grade. Width is typically at least 4 feet. All-terrain wheelchairs or adaptive equipment with wider tires recommended for the crushed limestone sections. Bridge crossings have wooden surfaces with railings.
Access & Trailheads
Getting There
The Sugar River State Trail is located in Green County in south-central Wisconsin, approximately 30 miles southwest of Madison and 25 miles south of Verona. The trail is easily accessible from major highways including US Highway 151, State Highway 69, and State Highway 11.
Major Trailheads
New Glarus Trailhead (Northern Terminus)
Address: 418 Railroad Street, New Glarus, WI 53574
GPS Coordinates: 42.8145°N, 89.6351°W
Facilities: Parking lot (paved), restrooms, water fountain, trail pass sales
Notes: Trail headquarters in restored 1887 depot building (National Register of Historic Places), New Glarus Chamber of Commerce, bike rentals sometimes available
Directions from Madison: Take US-151 South to Verona, then WI-69 South approximately 16 miles to New Glarus. In New Glarus, turn onto Railroad Street. Parking available at depot and additional lot north of depot.
Directions from Rockford, IL: Take US-20 West to IL-75 North, which becomes WI-69 North. Continue to New Glarus, approximately 45 miles.
Monticello Trailhead
Location: Near County Highway EE, Monticello, WI
Facilities: Parking lot (paved), restrooms, water fountain
Notes: Junction with Badger State Trail, business district approximately 1 mile from trail (restaurants, grocery, bars)
Albany Trailhead
Address: North Cincinnati Street (near intersection with Highway 59), Albany, WI
Facilities: Parking lot (paved), accessible parking, restrooms, water fountain
Notes: Convenient access to downtown Albany, views of Sugar River dam, near Albany Historical Museum. Exercise caution crossing Highway 59.
Brodhead Trailhead (Southern Terminus)
Location: West 3rd Avenue at Decatur Road, Brodhead, WI
Facilities: Parking, restrooms
Notes: Parking is farther from trail terminus compared to other access points. Note: First mile from Brodhead follows 3rd Avenue (marked for bike traffic) before joining off-road trail. Brodhead Depot Museum nearby (summer hours).
Directions from Janesville: Brodhead is the closest trailhead. Take WI-11 West to Brodhead. In Brodhead, turn right onto 10th Street, then left onto W. 3rd Avenue. Parking lot and trail terminus near Exchange Square.
Parking
Parking is available at all four major trailheads (New Glarus, Monticello, Albany, Brodhead). New Glarus offers the most convenient and largest parking facilities. Parking is free at all trailheads. During peak seasons (weekends in spring and fall), New Glarus parking can fill early—arrive before 10am or use the additional parking lot north of the depot.
Overnight parking for camping at New Glarus Woods State Park is available at the park, not at trail parking lots. Check with individual municipalities regarding multi-day parking policies if planning point-to-point rides.
Public Transportation
Limited public transportation serves this rural area. Personal vehicle is the most practical access method. Madison Metro does not extend to Green County. Some private shuttle services may be available—inquire at New Glarus Chamber of Commerce (trail headquarters) for current options.
Bike Rentals
Bike rentals are occasionally available at the New Glarus depot/trail headquarters, though availability varies seasonally. Contact the New Glarus Chamber of Commerce at the depot in advance to confirm current rental options. Michael’s Cycles in Janesville (approximately 25 miles from Brodhead) serves the area and can provide information on rentals and trail conditions.
Safety & Trail Conditions
Current Conditions
- Check Wisconsin DNR Sugar River State Trail page for current conditions and closures
- Recent user reviews indicate variable trail maintenance—some sections well-groomed, others with ruts, potholes, or overgrowth
- Trail surface can become soft, muddy, or develop standing water after heavy rain
- Fallen trees or branches occasionally block the trail; DNR crews work to clear but may not be immediate
- Bridge transitions can be uneven in some locations (planks may be 3-4 inches above ground level)
- Check Wisconsin weather forecasts for thunderstorm potential in summer
Trail Surface Considerations
The Sugar River State Trail features primarily crushed limestone surface (23 miles) with one mile of asphalt near New Glarus. While generally well-compacted, the limestone surface has variable conditions:
- After Rain: Surface can become soft, develop ruts, or have standing water in low areas. Allow 24-48 hours after heavy rain for drying.
- Seasonal Variation: Spring conditions often softer due to snowmelt and seasonal moisture. Summer and fall typically offer firmer surface.
- Maintenance Variation: New Glarus to Monticello section generally best maintained. Southern sections (Albany to Brodhead) may have more maintenance issues including ruts, overgrowth, and potholes.
- Two-Track Pattern: Some sections develop two parallel tracks from repeated use, with grass or rough surface in center. This can be challenging for three-wheeled bikes or tandems.
Road Crossings
The Sugar River State Trail crosses numerous roads at grade level. All crossings require caution:
- Highway 59 (Albany): Most significant crossing, exercise extreme caution, high-speed traffic, cross only when clear
- State Highway 69 (New Glarus): Paved trail section parallels highway initially
- County Roads: Multiple county highway crossings throughout trail
- Rural Roads: Numerous farm road and driveway crossings
Always stop, look both ways, and cross only when completely clear. Drivers are generally courteous to trail users but may not expect cyclists at rural crossings. Make yourself visible and never assume right-of-way.
Wildlife Safety
The Sugar River State Trail corridor supports diverse wildlife that enhances the experience but requires awareness:
Common Wildlife: White-tailed deer (very common), wild turkeys, songbirds, waterfowl, squirrels, chipmunks. Also turtles, snakes (including harmless garter and water snakes), and salamanders near wetland areas.
Wildlife Precautions:
- Watch for deer crossing trail, especially dawn and dusk
- Give wildlife space; observe from distance
- Do not feed animals
- Watch for snakes on sunny days, especially on bridges and exposed trail sections (Wisconsin snakes are generally non-venomous)
- Ticks are present—perform tick checks after rides, especially in tall grass areas
Tick Awareness
- Deer ticks (blacklegged ticks) are present in Wisconsin and can carry Lyme disease
- Risk is higher in brushy areas and tall grass along trail edges
- Stay on center of trail, avoid bushwhacking or sitting in grass
- Wear light-colored clothing to spot ticks easily
- Tuck pants into socks or wear gaiters
- Use EPA-registered insect repellent containing DEET or permethrin
- Perform thorough tick check after your ride: check behind knees, under arms, in hair, behind ears
- Shower within 2 hours of returning if possible
- If tick is attached, remove promptly with tweezers, pulling straight out. Watch for symptoms.
Hunting Season Awareness
The Sugar River State Trail corridor is open to hunting in the Albany Wildlife Area section (approximately 8 miles between County Highway EE in Monticello and Highway 59 in Albany) during specified seasons. Hunting is permitted from the Saturday nearest October 17 through January 31.
During hunting season in this section, wear bright colors (blaze orange recommended), stay on trail, make noise, and be aware of your surroundings. The trail remains open during hunting season, and hunters are required to follow all safety regulations and restrictions.
Weather Hazards
Thunderstorms: Summer afternoon thunderstorms can develop quickly in Wisconsin. Seek shelter in nearby towns if storms approach. The trail is largely exposed in open sections. Monitor weather forecasts and avoid riding when thunderstorms are predicted.
Heat: Summer temperatures can reach 85-90°F with high humidity. Start rides early, carry adequate water (at least 1 liter per person, more in heat), wear sun protection, take breaks in shade, and watch for signs of heat exhaustion.
Cold: Spring and fall temperatures can be cool, especially mornings. Dress in layers and be prepared for temperature changes throughout the day.
Emergency Information
Emergency Services: Call 911 for emergencies. Cellular coverage is generally good along most of the trail, particularly near towns and high points, though some rural sections may have limited or no service.
Nearest Hospitals:
Monroe Clinic Hospital – Monroe, WI (approximately 15-20 minutes from trail)
Mercyhealth Hospital & Medical Center – Janesville, WI (approximately 20-30 minutes from southern trail)
Trail Information: New Glarus Chamber of Commerce / Trail Headquarters: (608) 527-2095
General Safety Tips
- Ride within your ability level; trail is easy but 23 miles is substantial for casual riders
- Carry sufficient water and snacks
- Wear properly fitted helmet
- Use front and rear lights if riding dawn/dusk/cloudy conditions
- Carry basic bike repair tools and know how to use them
- Inform someone of your plans and expected return time
- Carry cell phone and emergency contact information
- Be courteous to other trail users; announce when passing
- Check trail conditions before long rides
- Know where you are: note mile markers and road crossings
Recommended Gear & Tips
Bicycle Recommendations
Best Bike Types for Sugar River State Trail:
- Hybrid Bikes: Ideal choice for the crushed limestone surface. Wider tires (35-45mm) handle variable conditions well. Most versatile option for this trail.
- Mountain Bikes: Excellent choice, especially for rougher sections. Suspension provides comfort over bumpy areas and uneven bridge transitions.
- Gravel/Adventure Bikes: Perfect for the trail surface. Designed for exactly this type of mixed-surface riding.
- Road Bikes: Possible but not ideal. The 1-mile paved section is perfect, but crushed limestone can be challenging, especially after rain. Wider road tires (28mm+) recommended if using road bike. May struggle with ruts and rough sections.
- E-Bikes: Increasingly popular on the trail and excellent for longer distances or less experienced riders. Ensure battery range is adequate for your planned distance.
- Kids’ Bikes: Trail is suitable for children with appropriate-sized bikes. Shorter segments recommended for younger riders.
Essential Gear
- Helmet: Non-negotiable for safety
- Water: At least 1 liter per person; 2+ liters for full trail or hot days
- Basic Repair Kit: Spare tube, tire levers, mini-pump or CO2 cartridges, multi-tool
- Cell Phone: For emergencies and navigation
- Sunscreen: Many sections are exposed; SPF 30+ recommended
- Sunglasses: Eye protection from sun and debris
- Snacks: Energy bars, fruit, or trail mix for longer rides
Recommended Gear
- Padded Cycling Shorts: Increase comfort on longer rides
- Gloves: Cycling gloves reduce hand fatigue and provide protection
- Front & Rear Lights: For visibility in tree-covered sections and dawn/dusk riding
- Bell or Horn: Courteous way to announce passing other trail users
- Small Backpack or Panniers: For carrying supplies, layers, purchases from towns
- Insect Repellent: For mosquitoes and tick prevention (DEET or permethrin)
- First Aid Kit: Basic supplies for minor injuries
- Rain Jacket: Wisconsin weather can change quickly
- Extra Layer: Spring and fall mornings can be cool
- Trail Pass: Don’t forget your $5 daily or $25 annual Wisconsin State Trail Pass
Trail-Specific Tips
Surface Conditions: Check recent reviews or call trail headquarters before heading out if conditions are a concern. Avoid the trail immediately after heavy rain. The New Glarus to Monticello section is typically best maintained.
Segment Riding: The trail is better enjoyed in segments between towns rather than attempting the full 46-mile round trip unless you’re an experienced cyclist. The most popular 13-mile (New Glarus-Monticello) round trip takes 2-3 hours for casual riders.
Food & Resupply: Plan your stops in towns for meals, snacks, and water refills. New Glarus offers the most dining options, including authentic Swiss restaurants. Monticello has coffee and cafes. Albany and Brodhead have options but with fewer choices.
Start Early: For longer rides, especially in summer, start in morning to avoid afternoon heat and potential thunderstorms. Parking lots can fill at popular trailheads on nice weekend mornings.
Post-Ride Activities: New Glarus offers excellent post-ride attractions including the New Glarus Brewing Company (top of hill above town), Swiss Historical Village Museum, unique shops, and restaurants. The village is worth exploring.
Photography Tips
The Sugar River State Trail offers beautiful photo opportunities:
- Bridges: The 14 trestle bridges, especially over the Sugar River, make great subjects
- Covered Bridge: Near Brodhead, the reconstructed wooden covered bridge is very photogenic
- Fall Colors: Late September to mid-October for spectacular hardwood forest colors
- Wildlife: Use telephoto lens for deer, turkeys, and birds; don’t approach too closely
- Historic Depot: The 1887 New Glarus depot is architecturally interesting
- Swiss Architecture: New Glarus village offers unique Swiss chalet-style buildings
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, if you’re biking or in-line skating and age 16 or older. A Wisconsin State Trail Pass costs $5 for a daily pass or $25 for an annual pass (valid one year from purchase date). Hikers and walkers do not need a pass, regardless of age. Children under 16 don’t need a pass for any activity.
Purchase passes at: New Glarus depot/trail headquarters, DNR offices, self-registration stations at trailheads, or online at dnr.wi.gov. Trail passes are required and checked; there are fines for riding without a valid pass.
Hybrid or mountain bikes are best. The crushed limestone surface can be variable with some sections having ruts, soft spots, or rough conditions. Hybrids with wider tires (35-45mm) or mountain bikes handle these conditions well. Road bikes with narrow tires can struggle, especially after rain. The first mile from New Glarus is paved, but the remaining 22 miles are crushed limestone. Some experienced cyclists report the trail surface can be challenging even for hybrids in poorly maintained sections.
The full 23 miles one-way takes 2-4 hours depending on fitness level and stops; round trip 4-7 hours. Most casual riders average 8-12 mph on crushed limestone. The popular New Glarus to Monticello segment (6.5 miles each way, 13 miles round trip) takes 2-3 hours total including stops. Factor in extra time for meals in towns, photo stops, and trail conditions. The full round trip of 46 miles is a significant ride best suited for regular cyclists.
Yes, with appropriate planning. The trail is rated easy with minimal elevation change, making it suitable for families. However, the full 23-mile distance is too long for most children. Recommend shorter segments: New Glarus to Monticello (13 miles round trip) is most popular for families and offers the best trail conditions. Ensure children have appropriate bikes, helmets, and the stamina for your chosen distance. The trail crosses multiple roads, requiring supervision at crossings. Consider that services (restrooms, water, food) are only available at trailhead towns, not along the trail itself.
Yes, dogs are allowed but must be on leash at all times. This is a Wisconsin DNR regulation for all state trails. Bring water for your dog and clean up after them. The crushed limestone surface can be hot in summer, so consider protective booties for dogs’ paws on very warm days. No off-leash areas exist on the trail.
Restrooms and water are available at major trailheads only, not along the trail between towns. Facilities are located at: New Glarus (depot/trail headquarters), Monticello trailhead, Albany trailhead, and Brodhead. Plan your ride knowing that there are no facilities between these points. The longest gap is the 8.5-mile segment from Albany to Brodhead. Carry sufficient water for your entire ride between towns.
Conditions vary by section and season. Recent user reviews indicate: New Glarus to Monticello section is generally best maintained with clear mile markers and good surface. Southern sections (Albany-Brodhead and parts of Monticello-Albany) may have more maintenance challenges including ruts, potholes, overgrowth, fallen branches, and two-track patterns with grass in the center. The trail can become soft, muddy, or develop standing water after rain. DNR maintenance crews work to keep the trail clear but may not address issues immediately. Check recent reviews or contact trail headquarters for current conditions before long rides. The trail is rideable but not always in pristine condition.
New Glarus Woods State Park is the primary camping option. Located just south of New Glarus with connector trail access, the park offers 18 family campsites (some with electrical hookups) and 14 primitive bike camping sites specifically for trail users. Facilities include showers, flush toilets, and picnic areas. Reservations strongly recommended, especially on weekends. The park is open year-round. Crazy Horse Campground near Brodhead is another option. Camping directly on the Sugar River State Trail is prohibited. All four trail communities offer hotels, motels, and bed & breakfasts for non-camping lodging.
Yes! The Sugar River State Trail connects to two significant trails. The Badger State Trail intersects just south of Monticello, offering connections northeast toward Madison and southwest toward the Illinois border. A 9-mile section of the Ice Age National Scenic Trail overlaps the Sugar River State Trail between Monticello and Albany, allowing hikers to explore this 1,200-mile trail across Wisconsin. Near Monticello, riders can take a short detour to visit the historic Stewart Tunnel on the Badger Trail. Combined, these trails offer extended riding and hiking opportunities for multi-day adventures.
New Glarus is known as “America’s Little Switzerland.” Founded in 1845 by Swiss immigrants from the canton of Glarus, the village maintains authentic Swiss heritage including chalet-style architecture, Swiss restaurants (including the famous Glarner Stube), specialty cheese and chocolate shops, and cultural festivals including Volksfest (celebrating Swiss Independence Day), Heidi Festival, and Polka Fest. The New Glarus Brewing Company is a popular destination offering brewery tours and a hilltop tasting room (note: beer only sold in Wisconsin). The Swiss Historical Village Museum complex showcases pioneer buildings. The restored 1887 railroad depot serving as trail headquarters is on the National Register of Historic Places. It’s a tourist destination worthy of extended exploration beyond just trail riding.
Essential Resources
Official Trail Management
Wisconsin DNR – Sugar River State Trail
Official managing agency providing trail information, current conditions, regulations, and permit details.
Visit DNR Page →New Glarus Chamber of Commerce
Trail headquarters located in historic depot. Trail passes, information, area lodging and dining, bike rental inquiries.
Phone: (608) 527-2095
Visit Website →Friends of the Badger and Sugar River State Trails
Volunteer organization supporting trail maintenance and improvements.
Wisconsin Trail Pass Information
Complete details about state trail pass requirements, fees, and online purchase options.
Pass Info →Trail Maps & Guides
TrailLink – Sugar River State Trail
Detailed trail maps, user reviews, parking locations, and interactive features. Excellent resource for trip planning.
View Trail Page →AllTrails – Sugar River State Trail
Trail information, GPS tracks, recent user reviews, photos, and conditions reports.
View on AllTrails →Wisconsin Bike Trails Guide
Comprehensive information about the Sugar River State Trail and connecting Wisconsin trails.
Read Guide →Area Tourism & Information
Travel Wisconsin – Sugar River State Trail
Official state tourism information about the trail and surrounding region.
Visit Site →New Glarus Brewing Company
Famous Wisconsin craft brewery located in New Glarus. Tours and tasting room available. Beer sold only in Wisconsin.
Brewery Info →New Glarus Woods State Park
State park with camping facilities adjacent to trail. Reservations and park information.
Park Info →Connected Trails
Badger State Trail
Connects to Sugar River State Trail near Monticello. Extends toward Madison and Illinois border. Features historic Stewart Tunnel.
Trail Info →Ice Age National Scenic Trail
1,200-mile hiking trail across Wisconsin. Nine miles overlap Sugar River State Trail between Monticello and Albany.
Trail Website →Weather & Conditions
National Weather Service – Madison
Official weather forecasts for Green County and south-central Wisconsin region.
Check Weather →How We Verify Trail Information
This guide is built on information verified from multiple authoritative sources to ensure accuracy. We cross-reference trail facts from official managing agencies, government websites, trail organizations, and respected outdoor recreation platforms. When sources provide conflicting information, we present ranges or note the discrepancy. We prioritize data from primary sources including the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, official trail management entities, and verified recent user reports. Our goal is to provide reliable, current information that helps you plan a safe and enjoyable trail experience.
View Information Sources (Click to Expand)
Primary Sources Consulted:
- Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources – Sugar River State Trail official page
https://dnr.wisconsin.gov/topic/parks/sugarriver - Wisconsin DNR – Basic Information & Recreation pages
https://dnr.wisconsin.gov/topic/parks/sugarriver/info - Sugar River State Trail – Wikipedia – General trail information and history
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sugar_River_State_Trail - TrailLink – Detailed trail information, user reviews, and maps
https://www.traillink.com/trail/sugar-river-state-trail/ - AllTrails – Trail statistics, conditions, and user reviews
https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/wisconsin/sugar-river-state-trail–2 - Travel Wisconsin – Official state tourism trail information
https://www.travelwisconsin.com/road-and-multi-use-trails/sugar-river-state-trail-201939 - Wisconsin Bike Trails – Comprehensive trail guide
https://wisconsinbiketrails.com/southwest-wisconsin/sugar-river-state-trail/ - Blaze Your Path – National Recreation Trail database
https://blazeyourpath.com/national-recreation-trail/sugar-river-state-trail/ - New Glarus Chamber of Commerce / Trail Headquarters – Local area information
- Multiple GPS and Geographic Sources – For coordinate verification of trail terminus locations
- User Reviews and Trip Reports – From TrailLink, AllTrails, and TripAdvisor for current conditions (2024-2025)
Note on Trail Length: Sources report varying lengths from 21.8 to 24 miles. We use “approximately 23 miles” as a conservative estimate based on Wisconsin DNR (24 miles) and multiple other sources reporting 22.7-23 miles.
Last Updated: October 2025
Ready to Explore the Sugar River State Trail?
Experience Wisconsin’s charming rail trail through Swiss heritage country, rolling farmland, and scenic river valleys. Whether you’re seeking a family-friendly bike ride, a peaceful walk through nature, or a connection to the Ice Age Trail, the Sugar River State Trail offers an accessible outdoor adventure through one of Wisconsin’s most unique cultural regions.
- Check current trail conditions on the Wisconsin DNR website before your trip
- Purchase your State Trail Pass ($5 daily / $25 annual) if biking or skating
- Start with the popular New Glarus to Monticello segment (13 miles round trip)
- Explore New Glarus village for authentic Swiss culture, dining, and shopping
- Plan your visit for spring or fall for the best weather and scenery
- Bring appropriate bikes (hybrid or mountain bike recommended), water, and sun protection
- Allow time to explore the charming communities along the trail
The Sugar River State Trail combines accessible outdoor recreation with rich cultural heritage, making it a distinctive destination in Wisconsin’s excellent state trail system. Whether you complete just one segment or ride the full 23 miles, you’ll experience the gentle beauty of Wisconsin’s countryside and the warm hospitality of its small towns.