By Olivia Mizelle | Photography by Focal Flame Photography
Need some new stops on your next bike ride? The new Madison By Bike program invites people to journey on four popular area bike trails and pause to enjoy the views and enjoy local bites. The program, launched in early July by Destination Madison, showcases trails that weave through some of Madison’s best sights and attractions. Riders can use their own bikes or rent an electric Madison BCycle for half off the price for a single ride pass.
Riders can earn prizes by checking in at stops along each trail. Prizes include a Madison By Bike sticker or belt bag, among others. The more stops riders check in at, the more points they are able to earn to redeem for prizes.
Check out these highlights along the four trails.
Capital City Trail
The Capital City Trail starts at the Sheraton Madison Hotel near Turville Bay and includes stops at Madison favorites like Monona Terrace and McPike Park. From views of Lake Monona to breakfast favorites at Monty’s Blue Plate Diner, this journey finishes at Starkweather Brewing Company where riders can celebrate a job well done with a beer.
Cannonball Loop
This path begins and ends in Fitchburg — journeying to Madison in the middle. It kicks off at Mexican restaurant Enrique’s Grill and takes riders through the UW Arboretum and ends back in Fitchburg at the Thirsty Goat brewery.
Lakeshore Path
For riders looking to see some of Madison’s signature sights, the Lakeshore Path is a great choice. After starting at Picnic Point, the trail’s first stop is the historical wetlands of the University Bay Marsh. Other waypoints include Willow Beach, the Observatory Hill Effigy Mound Group and a finish at the Memorial Union Terrace.
Southwest Commuter Path
Food and shopping are sandwiched between two boat rental stops on this path. Starting at Wingra Boats, stops include shopping along Monroe Street and tacos and coffee to refuel at Bandit Tacos and Coffee. The end point is at Brittingham Boats where riders can keep the fun going by renting a boat or paddleboard.
Learn more at visitmadison.com/madison-by-bike.
Find even more bike trails and local biking information here!
