Military Ridge State Trail – Dawley Conservancy Park loop from Capital Springs State Recreation Area- Jenni & Kyle Unit
Military Ridge State Trail – Dawley Conservancy Park loop from Capital Springs State Recreation Area- Jenni & Kyle Unit
2.6
(6)
63
riders
Military Ridge State Trail – Dawley Conservancy Park loop from Capital Springs State Recreation Area- Jenni & Kyle Unit
05:57
130km
880m
Road cycling
Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride. The starting point of the route is right next to a parking lot.
Last updated: May 25, 2026
Waypoints
Start point
Parking
Get Directions
1.39 km
Nevin Springs State Fishery and Wildlife Area
Nature Reserve
83.8 km
Fat Cat Coffee Works
Highlight • Cafe
Tip by
117 km
Military Ridge State Trail
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
Tip by
123 km
Dawley Conservancy Park
Highlight • Trail
Tip by
124 km
Dunn's Marsh
Highlight • Lake
Tip by
125 km
University of Wisconsin Arboretum - Grady Tract
Highlight • Forest
Tip by
130 km
Capital Springs State Recreation Area
Highlight • Trail
Tip by
130 km
End point
Parking
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
54.6 km
44.6 km
28.5 km
2.61 km
< 100 m
< 100 m
Surfaces
84.8 km
45.5 km
< 100 m
< 100 m
Sign up to see more specific route details
Sign up for free
Elevation
Highest point (350 m)
Lowest point (250 m)
Sign up to see more specific route details
Sign up for free
Weather
Powered by Foreca
Tuesday 9 June
29°C
21°C
-- %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: -- km/h
to get more detailed weather forecasts along your route
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Description
If you're looking for a serious road cycling challenge that blends scenic natural areas with a demanding distance, the Military Ridge State Trail – Dawley Conservancy Park loop from Capital Springs State Recreation Area- Jenni & Kyle Unit delivers. This is a difficult 80.9-mile (130.3 km) road cycling route with 2874 feet (876 metres) of climbing, taking around 5 hours and 56 minutes to complete. It's best suited for experienced cyclists ready to tackle a long day on the saddle, primarily on paved trails, offering a comprehensive road cycling route near Madison WI.
What to expect on Military Ridge State Trail – Dawley Conservancy Park loop from Capital Springs State Recreation Area- Jenni & Kyle Unit
Expect a journey through varied landscapes, starting near the Capital Springs State Recreation Area-Jenni & Kyle Unit with its restored prairies, woodlands, and wetlands. As you continue, Dawley Conservancy Park offers views of Dunn's Marsh and active conservation efforts. The route primarily utilizes the paved sections of the Military Ridge State Trail and the Capital City State Trail, ensuring a smooth ride for road bikes. While the Military Ridge State Trail is mostly flat due to its railroad bed origins, the sheer distance and elevation gain make this a difficult undertaking, ideal for cyclists who appreciate diverse natural beauty and a significant workout.
Planning your visit
A Wisconsin state trail pass is required for bicyclists aged 16 and older when using the Military Ridge State Trail and sections of the Capital City State Trail. Dawley Conservancy Park is home to the Dawley Bike Hub, which provides convenient amenities like restrooms, parking, water, and a bike repair station, making it a great spot to start or take a break. Given the duration, plan for an early start to comfortably complete the loop, and carry plenty of water, especially on warmer days.
Trail details
- Distance: 80.9 miles (130.3 km)
- Elevation gain: 2874 feet (876 metres)
- Difficulty: difficult
- Estimated time: 5 hours and 56 minutes
Comments
Want to know more?
Sign up for a free komoot account to join the conversation.
Sign up for free